CT Scan (General)

(Computed Tomography Scan; Computed Axial Tomography; CAT Scan)

by Krisha McCoy, MS

Definition

A CT scan uses x-ray technology to take multiple views of the inside of the body. Compared to regular x-rays, a CT scan can take clearer images of organs, bone, soft tissue, blood vessels, and other parts of the body.

CT Scan of the Head

Breast self-exam, step 5
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Reasons for test

Some of the primary uses for CT scans include:

  • Looking for bleeding inside the body
  • Studying the chest and abdomen
  • Determining the size and location of a tumor
  • Diagnosing and treating skeletal problems
  • Diagnosing blood vessel diseases
  • Planning radiation treatments for cancer
  • Guiding biopsies and other tests
  • Planning surgery
  • Identifying injuries from trauma

Possible Complications    TOP

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a CT scan, your doctor will review a list of possible complications. These may include:

  • Allergic reaction to contrast material
  • Damage to the kidney from contrast material

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

  • Allergies (if you are given a contrast dye during the test)
  • Kidney problems (if you are given a contrast dye during the test)

You are exposed to some radiation during a CT scan. Radiation exposure can increase your lifetime risk of cancer. This risk increases the more times you are exposed to radiation. Radiation exposure is more concerning for pregnant women and children. CT scans are usually not recommended for pregnant women.

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the test.

What to Expect    TOP

Prior to Test

  • Before the test, your doctor will likely ask about:
    • Your medical history
    • Medicines you take
    • Allergies
    • Whether you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Before your test, follow your doctor’s instructions regarding any changes to your medicines or diet.
  • At the healthcare facility:
    • A healthcare professional will explain the test and answer any questions you may have.
    • You will remove your clothes and put on a gown or robe.
    • You will remove all jewelry, hair clips, dentures, and other objects that could show on the x-rays and make the images hard to read.
    • If your CT scan includes oral contrast material, you will need to drink the contrast material at this time.

Description of the Test

You will lie (usually on your back) on a movable bed. The bed will slide into the donut-shaped CT scanner. Depending on the type of scan, an IV line may be placed in your hand or arm. A saline solution and contrast material may be injected into your vein during the test. The technologist will leave the room. She will give you directions using an intercom. The machine will take a series of pictures of the area of your body that is being studied. Your bed may move slightly between pictures.

After Test

You will need to wait for the technician to review your images. In some cases, more images will need to be taken.

How Long Will It Take?

About 10-15 minutes

Will It Hurt?

You may feel warm and flushed if contrast material is injected into your vein. Otherwise, you should feel no pain.

Results

The CT images will be sent to a radiologist who will analyze them. Your doctor will receive the results and discuss them with you.

Call Your Doctor    TOP

After the test, call your doctor if any of the following occur:

  • Symptoms of allergic reaction (eg, hives, itching, nausea, swollen or itchy eyes, tight throat, difficulty breathing)
  • Any other concerns

In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.

RESOURCES:

Radiological Society of North America
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/
US Food and Drug Administration
http://www.fda.gov

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Canadian Association of Radiologists
http://www.car.ca/
Canadian Radiation Protection Association
http://www.crpa-acrp.ca/

References:

Computed tomography (CT)—body. Radiological Society of North America website. Available at: http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bodyct&bhcp=1 . Updated July 2, 2012. Accessed November 19, 2012.
Radiation-emitting products: computed tomography (CT). US Food and Drug Administration website. Available at: http://www.fda.gov... . Updated January 24, 2012. Accessed November 19, 2012.
Last reviewed November 2012 by Brian Randall, MD
Last Updated: 11/26/2012