Computed Tomography (CT)
CT is a safe and painless exam that uses a special X-ray tube to produce a series of computerized images of your body that are useful in detecting many medical conditions that do not appear on traditional X-rays. The scanner itself is a round, doughnut-shaped machine that is open in the middle. Martha Jefferson is on the cutting-edge of CT technology and has the revolutionary GE 64-slice scanner which enables physicians to perform thin slice imaging, covering a large area of the body in a single breath-hold, thereby reducing radiation exposure to the patient. This system offers superb image quality and improved cardiovascular, neurological, and lung imaging.
What to Expect
During your CT exam, you will lie very still on a table that slides into the opening of the machine. You will hear humming noises as the x-ray tube circles around your body and takes pictures. A CT exam can take anywhere between10 and 30 minutes, depending on the area of the body being scanned.
CT scans sometimes require the use of contrast, either intravenously or by mouth, to enhance blood vessels and organs and highlight the area being imaged. If the contrast material is administered intravenously, an IV is inserted into an arm vein, and you can expect to feel a warm, flushing sensation that lasts one to two minutes as the contrast enters your body. If you are asked to drink a contrast "smoothie", you may pick up the contrast in advance from one of Martha Jefferson's facilities, or you can arrive two hours ahead of your scheduled appointment time to drink the contrast.
Preparing for your Exam
All CTs ordered with Contrast
Clear liquids only 6 hours prior to your exam. Please note that lab work must be obtained for the following patients prior to their appointment: history of diabetes, renal insufficiency, or over the age of 65. Lab values obtained within 6 weeks of the scheduled appointment are acceptable. We are also able to obtain lab values at the time of appointment if needed. Your physician's office must notify us if this service is needed at time of scheduling.
CT Angiogram
Clear liquids only 6 hours prior to your exam.
CT Abdomen/Pelvis
Clear liquids only 6 hours prior to your exam. You will also be asked to drink an oral contrast "smoothie" 2 hours prior to your appointment.
CT Chest
Clear liquids only 6 hours prior to your exam.
CT Enterography
No eating or drinking after midnight the night prior to your exam. You will have to arrive two hours ahead of your scheduled appointment time and will be asked to drink certain amounts of water at certain times before your exam.