CT SCANS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. WHAT IS A CT SCAN?
CT Scan (Computed tomography) is a diagnostic imaging modality that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce images of the internal organs. It shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, organs and blood vessels.
2. HOW LONG WILL MY CT SCAN TAKE?
A typical CT Scan examination may take 10 to 30 minutes. Exam time may vary depending on the nature of your study.
3. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A CT SCAN?
CT images will help your doctor to visualise your internal body parts. This detailed information can be used to determine if there is a medical problem; If so, the exact location of the problem and reveal vital details that can help your doctor plan the best possible treatment.
4. DOES CT SCAN USE HARMFUL RADIATION?
Unfortunately, yes. In Soorya Diagnostics, our CT ultra-low dose scanner feature the latest technology and imaging protocols, allowing us to use the lowest possible amount of radiation needed for each CT procedure.
Our CT Scan does expose to you a small amount of radiation, which is much lower than traditional CT scans and it is equivalent to the amount of natural radiation we receive annually.
5. WHAT IS A CT CONTRAST AGENT?
Contrast media is a medicine given to increase the visibility of your internal body parts. It is usually given by mouth or Intravenous injection (IV). It is normal to feel a warm sensation as the medicine makes its way through your body.
6. WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF A CONTRAST AGENT?
If your scan requires a contrast agent, there is a small risk of an allergic reaction. It has the same risk for reaction as any medication does, which is why we use contrast screening forms to check for possible patients who are at risk of having reaction to the contrast. Patients with poor kidney function are at a higher risk for these side effects.
Most reactions are mild and results in itching and rashes. In some rare instances, an allergic reaction can be serious and potentially life-threatening.
At Soorya Diagnostics, we use contrast agents which are proven to be the safest and with the least tendency to cause major allergic reactions. Our supporting staff are trained to handle any emergency situations, if one arises.
If you experience any discomfort, inform our radiographer immediately.
7. I THINK I MIGHT BE PREGNANT. SHOULD I GET A CT SCAN?
It is very important that you tell the radiographer if there is even the slightest possibility that you may be pregnant, since at higher doses x-rays can be harmful to the developing baby.
Sometimes in certain situations, alternatives can be planned including ultrasound or MRI, or modifying the CT exam to reduce the exposure to the fetus. Still, a CT scan may be taken if the benefits outweigh the risks involved and if a proper diagnosis would be impossible with alternate modalities.
You can discuss these options with either your referring doctor or with the staff of the Radiology department.
8. IF MY CT IS NORMAL, DOES IT MEAN THAT IT SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN DONE?
A normal CT provides valuable information and does not mean the test was unnecessary. It is important for your doctor to know what you do not have, as well as what you do have. In some cases the CT exam can provide the information your doctor needs thus avoiding alternative procedures, such as surgery, that have higher risks.
9. I WAS ASKED TO DRINK A MEDICINE BEFORE THE SCAN. WHY?
This medicine is oral contrast agent, which contains radiopaque material and will help your doctor get a better picture of your stomach and intestines. Patients usually need to drink at least 1.5 litre of the medicine to fill the stomach and intestines with oral contrast. You’ll likely wait 60 and 90 minutes after drinking the contrast for it to move through your bowel.