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A CT (computed tomography) scan is an advanced and sophisticated
diagnostic procedure in which a special Xray system is used
to rotate around the head or body. It produces a 3-dimensional
cross-section of an area of the body — “slice” by “slice.” It
completely reconstructs the image, displays it and permanently
records it.
Because a CT scan can better distinguish between organs,
it can detect certain conditions not found by other exams
or procedures, including ordinary X-rays.
In addition, it usually takes between 30 minutes to one
hour to perform, and can replace the need for exploratory
surgery.
A contrast medium (a substance containing iodine) may be
injected through a vein (intravenously) or administered orally.
Some patients may receive both an intravenous and oral contrast
media. The contrast medium allows certain parts of the body
to be highlighted.
You will be asked to lie still in a cool room during the
exam and will be given specific instructions depending on
the area of the body to be scanned.
While the CT scan machine is operating, it will make clicking
sounds. In an adjoining room, the technologist, who can see
and hear you, monitors the exam. You will be able to talk
with the technologist through an intercom system.
After the examination is interpreted by the radiologist,
a written report will be sent to your physician.
Although the dose of radiation delivered in a CT scan depends
upon many variables, including the number of “slices” being
taken and other technical factors, the procedure is generally
very safe. Please inform the technologist if you think you
may be pregnant.
, please contact the CT
scan supervisor at 732-923-1347, the chief technologist
at 732-923-6800 or the medical physicist at 732-923-6811.
Click
here for the informational brochure (pdf),
available as a PDF (portable document format) file.
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