Prepare for Your Computerized Tomography (CT)

A CT scan is like an MRI in that it provides a cross-sectional view of the body, creating multiple images. Our state-of-the-art, multi-slice CT scanner utilizes low levels of radiation. CT is a fast, gentle and painless method of examining the human body.

Before the CT scan:

• Please let us know if you are nursing or may be pregnant
• Please arrive 30 minutes early for registration verification
• Bring previous imaging studies with you to your exam (MRI or CT reports and films)
• If you are having a non-enhanced scan (no contrast medium), eat or drink as you normally would
• If you are having an enhanced scan (with contrast medium):
• Please inform the MDC nurse if you have any allergies
• You will be advised not to eat or drink 2-4 hours before the exam, depending on the body area being scanned
• The contrast medium may be given either orally or injected through an IV into your arm or hand
• After the contrast medium is given, you may notice a metallic taste in your mouth that will last a few minutes
• Following an enhanced scan, you should drink more liquids than usual
• If you have questions or require more information about your exam, please feel free to contact an MDC nurse at 612.879.1528 (8 am - 4 pm)

During the CT scan:

• During the examination you will be lying on a comfortable patient table
• The table will slowly move you through the CT opening called the gantry
• A built-in intercom allows you to talk with your technologist any time during your exam
• The entire exam will take 15 to 30 minutes

Test Results:
Following the CT examination, a radiologist analyzes the images and sends a report to your doctor, who will then discuss the results with you

Photo courtesy of Siemens.