A CT of your head without contrast involves taking pictures in thin slices of your head. The CT of your head with contrast involves starting an IV to inject the contrast medium through prior to the scan. The contrast medium makes pictures taken by the machine of your head more visible for the radiologist to view.

If you are or suspect you might be pregnant, let your doctor, nurse or technologist know immediately.

Before the test

You will need to be NPO, meaning no foods or liquids, after midnight the night before your scheduled examination. For example, if you are scheduled on Monday, you will need to not eat or drink anything after midnight Sunday evening. If you are taking any diabetic medication, please check with your physician as to whether or not to take these medications the morning of the exam

During the Exam

If you are or suspect you might be pregnant, let your doctor, nurse or technologist know immediately.

Before the test, please remove earrings, bobby pins, and hearing aids.

You will be asked to lie on the examining table, usually on your back. The movable table will be raised, lowered and moved in and out of the scanner opening. The area of your body being examined will remain inside the scanner. It is very important that you remain still when the images are being taken, so that the pictures are clear. An intercom will permit you to communicate with the technologist.

You will hear a variety of whirring, clicking, and other machine like noises during the examination. While your CT Scan is being checked for clarity, you may be asked to wait. If additional images are needed, they will be taken at that time.

After the Exam

Your CT will be reviewed by a board certified radiologist, who will pass the results on to your physician. Your doctor, in turn, will discuss the results with you. He/she may recommend further testing, or suggest a treatment plan for your condition. Make sure you have a clear understanding of your test results and their impact on your health. If you have questions, feel free to ask your doctor.

Most patients are able to return to normal diet and activities immediately following the exam.

If You Want More Information.

Please feel free to call the CRH Imaging department at 918-225-8220.