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CT (Cat Scan) Information
Computed tomography (CT, CAT scan) is a non-invasive procedure that enables medical professionals to obtain accurate diagnostic information on many areas of your body. The CT uses x-rays to produce a cross-sectional image (or slice) of the area of your body being examined. Our state-of-the-art 64-Slice CT scanner is twice as fast as lesser multi-slice CT scanners and is capable of capturing entire organs in seconds and a whole body vascular scan in ten. It provides outstanding image detail for any exam, including cardiac, head, spine, abdominal and vascular studies.
This technology allows us to image smaller structures with great detail and resolution in even the most challenging applications. Capturing images as thin as a credit card, the 64-Slice gives your doctor an unprecedented level of detail needed to treat disease and life-threatening illnesses. Preventive and routine tests offered at Black Hills Surgery Center include:
- Calcium Scoring
- Lung Scan
- Bone Density scans
- Scan for aortic dissection, pulmonary embolism and coronary artery disease, in one single exam
- CT angiographies
- Rapid perfusion studies for stroke and chest pain
With the 64-Slice CT you get:
- Greater diagnostic confidence
- Faster scans
- Optimized radiation doses
- Shorter breathholds for greater comfort
- Non-invasive exams with no recovery time
The use of contrast (dye) plays an important role in helping to see the body structure and/or abnormalities. The doctor will determine if and what type of contrast is to be used prior to your CT scan. There are three types of contrast: oral (the type you drink), rectal and IV. Not all CT exams require the use of contrast-read below on Intrathecal Injection.
Preparation
Do not eat or drink for four hours before your exam. (If you are having
an intrathecal injection, this does not apply to you.) You may be asked
to arrive one to two hours prior to your exam time if oral contrast
is necessary. If IV contrast is necessary, a small plastic needle will
be inserted into a vein in your hand or arm. The contrast will be injected
through the needle. You may feel a warm sensation for a short duration,
a metallic taste in your mouth and/or fullness in your bladder.
What to Expect
Once in the scan room, the technologist will ask you to lie on a table.
At the end of the table is a large donut-shaped structure called a gantry.
The table will move you into the center of the gantry in preparation
for the scan. During the scan you will hear a series of spinning sounds.
These spinning sounds will be repeated several times until the area
to be scanned is completed. On average, a scan lasts 20 to 30 minutes.
Following your exam, a radiologist will interpret the CT image and a
report will be sent to your doctor.
Intrathecal Injection CT
This injection of contrast into the spinal sac that surrounds the nerves
and spinal cord is used to enhance computed tomography CT imaging.
What To Expect
This procedure causes minimal discomfort. An area of your back will
be cleansed and numbed by the radiologist. A small needle will be placed
into the numb area of your back. Contrast (dye) will be injected into
the site. The contrast outlines the spinal cord and nerves. This procedure
takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Preparation
Take your medications as usual the day of the procedure. Drink lots
of fluids the day before and the morning of the procedure until one
hour before the appointment. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
It is important to inform the Black Hills Imaging Center nurse if you
are taking:
- Blood
thinners such as Coumadin, Aspirin or Heparin
- Phenothiazine
Class Medications such as Mellaril, Elavil, Thorazine, Compazine,
Phenergan,
- Torecan,
Triavil, Sparine, Serentil, Trilafon, Prolixin, Stelazine
- Antidepressants
- Tranquilizers
- And/or
if you have had a "reaction" to contrast in the past
Following
the Procedure
After your injection, you will rest and recline for two and a half hours
before your CT scan. You will be asked to drink as much fluid as possible
and will be allowed to eat. Once your CT is completed, you will be discharged.
You are encouraged to have someone drive you home and you should not
work that day. Do not engage in any strenuous physical activity for
24 hours. Relaxing will help avoid the chance of a severe headache.
If you experience a severe headache after your exam, please call the
Imaging Center staff at 605-721-4800. If it is after clinic hours, please
call 1-888-826-3949. |
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