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The Center for Neurological Disorders is
committed to providing superior facilities and equipment to assist
us in the proper diagnosis and treatment of your health problems.
We are pleased to offer you the convenience of computer tomography
scanning at our Fort Worth office
in an environment that is comfortable and managed by our own
health care team. Frequently asked questions about CT scans
What is a CT scan?
A CT scan or CAT scan (or computed tomography scan) is a rotating
x-ray device used to create detailed cross sectional images of a
combination of soft tissue, bone, and blood vessels in a
completely non-Invasive procedure. Tissue density is measured and
a patient's anatomy can be reconstructed by a computer which is
then transferred to traditional x-ray film for use in planning
treatment.
What must I do during a scan?
You must relax. There is no pain
associated with the procedure. The patient must also remain still
during the examination. You may be asked to hold your breath for a
few seconds or lie in somewhat of an uncomfortable position for a
short time; however, the CT exam causes no bodily sensations. You
can talk to the technologist or ask questions in between the data
acquisition. Only the technician and the patient can be in the CT
exam room during the test.
What is contrast media?
Iodine contrast is used to make specific organs, blood vessels or
tissue types stand out with more of a contrast in the x-ray
picture. The
contrast can either be Injected or administered intravenously. A
contrast is used for some patients but not all.
How long will the CT scan take?
Depending on the type of exam, the
procedure lasts between 10 to 45 minutes The result is
will be evaluated by our on-staff radiology team and shared with
your doctor within a 48-hour period. Your doctor will be able to
share the results with you quickly.
Is CT imaging safe?
A CT scan provides valuable information to the doctor about your
overall condition. Patients should Inform their doctor if they
have a history of allergies, especially if they have had a
previous reaction to an Iodine injection or shellfish. Other
concerns are diabetes, asthma, a heart condition, kidney problems
or a thyroid condition. CT scans are not for women who are
pregnant or think they may be pregnant. Special care must be taken
for nursing mothers.
How to prepare for the exam
- Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled
appointment time.
- Don't eat or drink anything for foul hours before your scan
appointment.
- If you are instructed to drink a special solution ("oral
preparation") to prepare for your scan, you will receive the
solution and instructions. Please follow the instructions
carefully.
- Continue taking your medication as usual. Consult your doctor If
you have questions.
- You will be asked to change into hospital gown because snaps and
zippers in street clothes can interfere with the scan. You also
may be asked to remove your watch or any jewelry.
- Leave valuables such as jewelry,
cash,
credit cards at home.
- Allow one hour for your CAT scan
- After the test is performed, the
team at CND will review your test
results with you.
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