» CT Scanning (Computed Tomography; CAT scan)

» What is CT scanning?
  In many ways CT scanning works very much like other x-ray examinations. By using special imaging techniques assisted by a computer, the CT scanner provides a more detailed and more accurate picture of the scanned area, compared to traditional x-rays. With CT scanning it is possible to thoroughly examine and picture the brain and other internal organs, the spine and other bones and the skeletal muscles. It is also much easier to diagnose internal lesions and illnesses, such as inflammations, cardiovascular disease, bleedings, tumours, musculoskeletal disorders, etc.


» How is the CT scan performed?
  The technologist begins by positioning the patient on the CT table, which will slide into the tube of the CT scanner. There is a rotating gantry inside the CT scanner that has an x-ray tube mounted on one side and a detector mounted on the opposite side. The rotating frame spins the x-ray tube and the detector around the patient and the image of a thin section (slice) is acquired. The computer reconstructs the image. As the study proceeds, the table will move slowly into the CT scanner. The imaging procedure is repeated until the examined area is scanned, slice after slice. The patient must remain still during the scan, and in some cases the radiologist will give instructions on when to breathe.
  A CT examination often requires the use of different contrast materials to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. In case of thoracic and ventral examinations, the use of contrast materials is nearly always required. Cranial scans may usually be performed without these.

» How should I prepare for the CT examination?
  There is no need for special preparation in case of cranial and spinal examinations.
  In case of thoracic and ventral scanning, you may be asked to swallow either water or a positive contrast material. Sometimes the contrast material is injected into a vein. In both cases this is done to accentuate the appearance between normal and abnormal tissues. The contrast material may cause nausea; therefore it is not advised to eat before the CT scanning. The most commonly used contrast materials are barium and iodine.
  Women should always inform their doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. Iodine irritability must also be mentioned.


» What are the dangers of computed tomography?
  CT does involve exposure to radiation in the form of x-rays, but the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk.
  In the first 3 months of pregnancy the baby is especially sensitive to radiation. Nursing mothers should wait 24 hours after contrast injection before resuming breast-feeding.
  Light side effects caused by the contrast material may include itching sensation, hives, feeling a flush of heat and sometimes a metallic taste in the back of the mouth. In very rare cases, a patient may become short of breath or experience swelling in parts of the body. These are symptoms of a more serious reaction to the contrast material. The risk of serious allergic reaction to contrast material is rare; radiology departments are well equipped to deal with them.
  Patients liable to claustrophobia may feel discomfort during the examination.

» Do CT examinations cause pain?
  CT scanning causes no pain. If the contrast material is injected into a vein you will feel the discomfort of the shot.

» Who interprets the results? How do I get them?
  Following the scanning you will be asked to wait until the images are examined. If needed, more images may be taken. A radiologist will examine the results and will also give a signed report on the results of the examination. This report will include the radiologist's expert opinion on the health condition of the examined organs and will mention all visible alterations.