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Below: A pre-surgical volumetric measurement of the left and right lobes of the liver based on a CT of the abdomen. For more information or to schedule an
appointment, please call 310-423-8000. The S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center provides a full range of advanced imaging, both radiology and cardiology, as well as interventional radiology and interventional tumor (oncology) treatments to the greater Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Encino, Mid-Cities, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, Silver Lake, Studio City, Toluca Lake and West Hollywood. OverviewPatient Entering CT Scanner.What is a CT scan?Medical professionals use computed tomography, also known as CT scan, to examine structures inside your body. A CT scan uses X-rays and computers to produce images of a cross-section of your body. It takes pictures that show very thin “slices” of your bones, muscles, organs and blood vessels so that healthcare providers can see your body in great detail. Traditional X-ray machines use a fixed tube to point X-rays at a single spot. As X-rays travel through the body, they are absorbed in different amounts by different tissues. Higher density tissue create a whiter image than other tissues against the black background of the film. X-rays produce 2D images. CT scans have a doughnut-shaped tube that rotates the X-ray 360 degrees around you. The data captured provides a detailed 3D view of the inside of your body. Are a CT scan and CAT scan the same thing?CT scans and CAT scans describe the same imaging test. CAT scan stands for computed axial tomography. Test DetailsPatient Fully Inside a CT Scanner.What is a CT scan with contrast?Sometimes, your scan uses a contrast agent. This contrast agent, sometimes called a dye, improves the images by highlighting certain features. Your healthcare provider will either have you drink a special liquid containing the contrast agent or give you an IV injection with the contrast or both depending on the type of CT scan and the reason for the scan. The contrast agent is cleared from your body through your urine, first rapidly then more slowly over the next 24 hours. How do I prepare for a CT scan?Your healthcare provider will give you instructions on how to prepare for your CT scan. On the day of the exam, you should pay attention to:
If your CT scan uses dye or contrast, your provider may give you some specific preparation guidelines:
What happens during the test?During the test, you will lie on your back on a table (like a bed). If your test requires it, a healthcare provider may inject the contrast dye intravenously (into your vein). This dye can make you feel flushed or have a metallic taste in your mouth. When the scan begins:
How long does the test take?Typically, you should plan for an hour for a CT scan. Most of that time is for preparation. The scan itself takes between 10 and 30 minutes or less. Generally, you can resume your activities after a healthcare provider says it is safe to do so — usually after they complete the scan and verify clear images. Results and Follow-UpHow long does it take to get results?The results of the scan usually take 24 hours. A radiologist, a physician who specializes in reading and interpreting CT scan and other radiologic images, will review your scan and prepare a report that explains them. In an emergency setting, such as a hospital or emergency room, healthcare providers often receive results within an hour. Once a radiologist and your healthcare provider have reviewed the results, you will either have another appointment or receive a call. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you. Additional DetailsWhat does a CT scan show?Your healthcare provider will order a CT scan to help make a diagnosis of your health. The scan enables providers to closely examine bones, organs and other soft tissues, blood vessels and suspicious growths. Things that a CT scan can find include:
Healthcare providers can also see organs and tissues on X-rays. But on X-rays, body structures appear to overlap, making it difficult to see everything. The CT scan shows spaces between organs for a clearer view. Are CT scans safe?Healthcare providers consider CT scans generally safe. CT scans for children are safe, too. For children, your CT technologist may use machines adjusted for children to reduce their radiation exposure. CT scans, like other diagnostics, use a small amount of ionizing radiation to capture the image. Some risks associated with CT scans include:
If you have concerns about the health risks of CT scans, talk to your healthcare provider. They will discuss your concerns and help you make an informed decision about the scan. Can I have a CT scan if I’m pregnant?If you are or might be pregnant, you should tell the CT technologist. CT scans of the pelvis and abdomen can subject the developing fetus to radiation, but it’s not enough to cause actual harm. CT scans in other parts of the body don’t put the fetus at any risk. A note from Cleveland Clinic CT scans are an excellent diagnostic tool. You may have worries when your provider orders a CT scan. But this safe, painless test is noninvasive and has very little risk. The reward is that a CT scan can help your providers accurately diagnose a health concern and provide the right treatment for you. Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have, including other options for testing. How do you prepare for an abdominal CT scan?EAT/DRINK: If your doctor ordered a CT scan without contrast, you can eat, drink and take your prescribed medications prior to your exam. If your doctor ordered a CT scan with contrast, do not eat anything three hours prior to your CT scan. You are encouraged to drink clear liquids.
What is the process for a CT scan?During a CT scan, you lie in a tunnel-like machine while the inside of the machine rotates and takes a series of X-rays from different angles. These pictures are then sent to a computer, where they're combined to create images of slices, or cross-sections, of the body.
Why would a doctor order a CT scan of the abdomen?Why Are Abdominal CT Scans Done? A doctor may order a CT scan to look for signs of inflammation, infection, injury, or disease. The results can help doctors find the cause of abdominal pain, diagnose an illness, or check the effects of an injury.
In what ways can the medical assistant assist a practitioner in managing the office schedule?Schedule Appointments – the medical office assistant, while answering phone calls or managing reception, may also schedule appointments for patients and update the doctor's calendar. Some medical office assistants in bigger medical practices may be the designated appointment scheduler.
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