How do I prepare for this exam?
We will schedule you to arrive shortly before your scan so that you will have time to prepare for the study. In the hour preceding your scan, you should be drinking the oral contrast material which was given to you upon scheduling. Contrast is a liquid that improves the visibility of structures within the body. Two bottles of contrast were given to you to take home. Drink one bottle on the evening before the exam. Drink one bottle one hour prior to the exam.
What happens in the CT room?
The CT scanner consists of a large doughnut-shaped machine and X-ray table. You will lie on the table and be slowly moved into the large opening as a series of pictures are taken. You may be given an injection of intravenous contrast which improves the visibility of structures within the body. We ask that you lie very still and follow the instructions of the technologist while the scan is being performed.
Is the examination painful?
No. There is no pain. CT scanning is a simple, safe method to “see inside your body”. During the injection of intravenous contrast material, there may be a sensation of flushing or warmth or a metallic taste in the mouth. These sensations are brief, lasting one to two minutes and gradually resolve. Should there be more intense pain at the site of injection, leakage of the dye may have occurred. You should indicate your discomfort to the technologist immediately.
How long will the exam take?
Depending on the type of exam scheduled, the procedure will last between five minutes and an hour from the time you lie on the CT table.
When may I eat?
As soon as the exam is over.
My doctor said he wants to do a CT biopsy. What is that?
A CT biopsy is a method for taking a tissue sample while being guided by a CT scan. The procedure is supervised by the radiologist and is generally performed under local anesthesia. Appropriate pre-medications will be prescribed if indicated.
How will I learn the results of the CT examination?
Your physician will discuss the results with you.
Special note:
If you have asthma, any known allergy to food or medications, or are pregnant, please inform the technologist before your exam. If you have any questions, please call your own physician or Koolau Radiology at (808) 599-4471.
Preparation:
Do not eat solid foods for three hours prior to the exam. You may drink clear liquids during this time. Routine medications may also be taken.
