A CT scan unit focuses on a specific area of your body, such as your head, spine, abdomen, chest, pelvis and extremity. The x-ray tube rapidly scans this site, allowing multiple images to be made from different angles to create a cross-sectional image. A computer analyzes the information, and an image is constructed on a monitor. These images are much more detailed than a regular x-ray examination and can detect many conditions that do not show up on conventional x-rays.

Occasionally, your physician may order your CT scan with different types of contrast agents to better visualize specific areas in question. One contrast agent is taken orally (a barium mixture), and the other is an injection, depending upon the procedure requested. The CT scan examination can range anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. No radiation remains in your body after a CT scan procedure, and there are usually no side effects.
 

CT scans performed at Diagnostic Imaging of Milford:
 

Abdomen Sinuses Brain Chest Extremities Head and Neck Pelvis

Spines CT IVP CTA – Aorta, Carotid, Renal Stent Protocol Spiral CT Scanning Chest for patients at increased risk of lung cancer, for example, ex-smokers Spiral CT Scanning Flank to rule out stone

PREPARATION:

	You will be asked to fill out a medical form before your procedure is done, so please arrive at the office a few minutes before the time of your appointment.
	There is no preparation if you are not having contrast.
	If your procedure is ordered with a contrast agent, you will be given specific instructions at the time your examination is scheduled. The instructions may include fasting and/or the use of a cleansing agent.

*It is important to inform our office if you have had previous CT scans at another facility in order for our radiologist to compare these procedures. You may be asked to bring these films with you.*

Download CT Scan Info Sheet

Download CT Scan CPT Codes and Guidelines

Download Requisition Form