Computed Tomography

"CT" stands for computed tomography, an x-ray technique that allows doctors to study cross-sectional views of the head and body through the use of an x-ray scanning device linked to a computer.  This machine, called the CT scanner, makes it possible to visualizeminute anatomical structures and differentiate subtle differences in healthy or diseased tissue.  It is as though you could carefully examie and individual slice of bread without removing it from the loaf!

Oral and/or IV contrast may be needed for your CT exam.  If you have had any previous reactions to IV contrast media in the past, please inform the technologist before the examinations begins.

What To Expect During Your Visit

When You Arrive At VRMC
Please arrive at your scheduled appointment time. Enter Virginia Regional Medical Center though the main lobby and proceed to the patient services desk. A patient services representative will help you register for admission to our Imaging Department.

Time Required For Your CT Scans
You should plan on spending about 30-60 minutes at VRMC for the examination, from start to finish.  About one-half hour is needed for registration and to change clothing.  One-half hour is needed for the actual exam.  Abdominal and pelvis scans will usually require one to two additional hours prior to the exam as patients will be asked to drink an intestinal contrast material.  This special drink can be picked up at the Imaging Department the day before your exam.  You will not need to stay the extra 1-2 hours if you pick up the oral contrast prior to the day of the exam.

A Special Note To Patients
All regular medications may be taken on the day of your exam.  All metal and plastic items (hairpins, dentures, buttons, earrings, necklaces, etc.) must be removed from the part of the body to be examined.  Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, for 24 hours following the exam.

Directions For Your Computed Tomography
The patient's body weight must not exceed 350 pounds for accurate table incrementation.
Head Scan
         * Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours before the exam
         * You must arrive at the scheduled exam time
         * Scan will take approximately one-half hour
Neck Scan
         * Same instructions as for HEAD scan
         * Scan will take approximately one-half hour

Chest (Lung) Scan
         * Same instructions as for HEAD scan
         * Scan will take approximately one-half hour

Abdominal Scan
         * Low residue diet for two days prior to the exam.  Avoid whole grain breads, cereals, 
           nuts, seeds, fruits, raw vegetables, prunes, coconut and restrict milk.  (NO BULK  
           LAXATIVES.)
         * Nothing to eat or drink for four hours before the exam (unless instructions are given for
           drinking contrast material before the exam).
         * You must not have barium in your intestine
         * You must arrive at the hospital at the scheduled exam time
         * Exam will take approximately one-half hour
Pelvis Scan
         * Same as for ABDOMINAL scan
Spine Scan
         * No diet restrictions, but you MUST not have barium in the intestinal tract
         * You must arrive at the hospital at the scheduled exam time
         * Scan will take approximately one-half hour

What Is A CT Exam Like?
When you enter the examination room, you will be asked to lie on the examination table.  An x-ray technologist will assist you in finding the correct position.  The table will then be moved into the scanner's opening to precisely align that portion of the head or body to be studied.  If you are having a head scan, it will be necessary to remove earrings and necklaces.  For body studies you will be dressed in a patient gown.

You must hold your breath during body studies to avoid blurring the image.  The technologist will tell you when to breathe.

Although CT examination only takes a short time, patients should plan on one-half to one hour for the entire study from start to finish.

CT Scan Diagnosis
Our GE LightSpeed QXI scanner "reconstructs" images immediately.  The entire series of scans will be ready for the radiologist to study shortly after completion of your examination.

Your personal physician will receive a complete report on your examination directly from the radiologist.  The radiologist is a highly-skilled physician specially trained in the interpretation of diagnostic images, including CT.  He (or she) will assist your physician in "reading" the scans and help plan any subsequent medical treatment that may be required.

We request your complete cooperation in conducting this examination to ensure that the greatest possible diagnostic benefit is achieved.