While all CT scans do not follow the same process, generally you can expect the following upon your arrival:

• When you arrive for your CT scan, you will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the scan.
   
• If you are having a procedure done with contrast, an intravenous (IV) line will be started in your hand or arm for injection of the contrast medication. For oral contrast, you will be given medication to swallow.
   
• You will lie on a scan table that slides into a large, circular opening of the CT scanner.
   
• The CT technologist will be in another room where the scanner controls are located. You will be in constant sight of the staff through a window. Speakers inside the scanner will enable you to communicate with the staff via a call bell should you have any problems during the procedure. The technologist will be watching you at all times and will be in constant communication.
   
• As the scanner begins to rotate around you, low-dosage x-rays pass through your body for short amounts of time.
   
• The x-rays absorbed by the body's tissues are detected by the scanner and transmitted to a computer.
   
• The computer transforms the information into an image to be interpreted by a radiologist.
   
• It is very important you remain very still during your procedure.
   
• A CT procedure generally takes 5 to 20 minutes depending on how detailed a study is required.

Following your exam, your CT scan will be reviewed by our radiologists. Previous studies are compared with your current exam and the results are sent directly to your physician. Having all of your outside films at the time of your exam will prevent reporting delays.

The results of your exam will be given to you by your doctor who will correlate your CT results with other tests and their own clinical findings.