Information for patients who require a CT Chest

CT Chest 

How should I prepare for the CT scan?

• You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam. You may be given a gown to wear during the procedure.
• You may require blood tests to assess how well your kidneys are working prior to the CT scan as the IV contrast can affect kidney function
• Metal objects such as necklaces may affect the CT images and should removed prior to your exam.  
• You may be asked not to eat anything for several hours beforehand, especially if IV contrast will be used in your exam.  
• You should inform your physician of any medications you are taking and if you have any allergies, especially if you have a known allergy to intravenous (IV) contrast, or "dye".  Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
• You will have to complete a medical history questionnaire and sign a consent form
• Women should always inform their doctor and the CT technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.  
  

How is the CT scan performed?

• You will be positioned on the CT examination table, usually lying flat on your back. 
• If contrast is required, an IV cannula will be inserted into your arm. 
• You may be asked to hold your breath  for a short period during the scanning. 
• Your appointment is usually completed within 20 minutes.

What will I experience during and after the procedure?

• CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With our new 64 slice CT,  the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced.
• Though the scanning itself causes no pain, there may be some discomfort from having to remain still for several minutes. 
• If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel   the needle is inserted into your vein. You may have a warm, flushed sensation during the injection of the contrast materials and a metallic taste in your mouth that lasts for a few minutes. Some patients may experience a sensation like they have to urinate but this subsides quickly.
• You will be alone in the exam room during the CT scan. However, the technologist and the nurse  will be able to see, hear and speak with you at all time.
• After a CT exam, you can return to your normal activities.
• If you received  IV contrast  , you may be given special instructions regarding drinking plenty of water to flush the IV contrast out of your body, and when to recommence your diabetic tablets.
  

Who interprets the results and how do I get them?

A CT scan , sometimes called CAT scan , is a type of specialised xray examination where ‘slices’ of the body are imaged and then are reconstructed to give a 2D picture  of your internal organs, vessels and other  structures to help doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions.