HomeWhat you need to know about CT

What you need to know about CT

Computed tomography is a modern diagnostic method that allows obtaining detailed images of internal organs and tissues. During the examination, the patient lies still, and a special device scans the body, creating layer-by-layer images. This helps doctors detect even the slightest changes in the structure of organs, tumors, injuries, or inflammatory processes.

Before the procedure, it is important to inform the doctor about allergies, chronic diseases, and possible pregnancy. In some cases, a contrast agent is used to obtain more accurate results. The examination is painless and takes only a few minutes.

How CT is performed

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Prior to computed tomography (CT), the patient is given detailed instructions on the procedure. The doctor clarifies the presence of chronic diseases, allergic reactions, pregnancy or renal dysfunction. If the use of contrast agent is planned, it is recommended to refrain from eating 4-6 hours before the examination. The patient is also advised to take previous medical examinations for comparison.

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The patient removes all metal objects, such as jewelry, dentures, glasses, belts, and other accessories that can distort the image. The patient changes into a medical gown or other comfortable metal-free clothing. The medical staff checks the readiness of the equipment and re-instructs the patient on the examination procedures.

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The patient lies down on a movable table, which is fixed with soft rollers or straps to ensure immobility, if necessary. The exact position of the body depends on the anatomical area being examined. For chest or abdominal examinations, the patient usually lies on the back; for spinal examinations, knee bending may be recommended.

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If necessary, intravenous contrast is used to improve visualization of blood vessels, internal organs and pathological changes. Contrast is injected using an injector, and the patient may feel warmth, light dizziness, or a metallic taste in the mouth. Medical staff monitors the patient's condition during the injection.

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The table with the patient moves smoothly through the ring of the CT scanner, where the X-ray tube rotates to obtain a series of highly accurate images from different angles.The patient must lie still and follow the staff's instructions to hold their breath or change position. The procedure lasts from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the area to be examined and the use of contrast.

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The data obtained is processed using special software. The radiologist analyzes the images and draws up a conclusion on the presence of pathologies or the condition of the organs under examination. The results are sent to the patient in printed or electronic form, usually within a few hours or the next business day.

Peculiarities of CT scan in certain conditions

Please note that the presence of the following conditions may require additional preparation or be a limitation for CT scanning.

CT scan is an effective diagnostic method, but in some cases it requires caution:

  • Pregnancy - CT scan is not recommended, especially in the first trimester; it is performed only for vital indications.
  • Contrast allergy - check for iodine allergy; if necessary, prepare.
  • Renal insufficiency - contrast can impair renal function; if necessary, a contrast-free CT scan is performed.
  • Children - CT is prescribed only for indications with a minimum radiation dose.
  • Diabetes mellitus - possible interactions of contrast with metformin; sometimes the drug is temporarily canceled.
Safety - CT is accurate and safe when protocols are followed and patient-specific features are taken into account.
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How to prepare for CT diagnostics

What to take with you for a CT scan:

You should bring all the necessary documents and things with you to the CT scan: a passport or other identification document, a doctor's referral, the results of previous examinations (X-rays, ultrasound, tests), and a list of medications. If contrast agents are to be used, it is recommended to have information about allergies and kidney disease.

Quality of medical records:

  • Medical documentation of inadequate quality is not taken into account.
  • Printouts with fuzzy images are not used.
  • Copies of poor quality or incomplete survey results may be rejected.
  • In this case, the doctor may ask to repeat the examination.

Preparing for individual studies

CT scan with contrast agent

  • take a blood test for creatinine and inform us of its result by phone
  • limit fluid intake 2 hours before the study

CT scan of the brain

  • no special preparation is required 2 days before the test
  • if you have metal implants, a pacemaker or prostheses, inform the staff
  • If the examination is performed with contrast, take a blood test for creatinine and report the result
  • limit fluid intake 2 hours before the examination

CT scan of the chest organs

  • limit fluid intake 2 hours before the study
  • do not smoke or drink caffeinated beverages 4 hours before the examination
  • In case of CT with contrast, take a blood test for creatinine and report the result
  • remove metal objects, jewelry, clothing with zippers

CT scan of the abdominal cavity and retroperitoneal space

  • 2 days before the examination, exclude black bread, legumes, gas-forming products, dairy products, raw vegetables and fruits
  • do not eat 6 hours before the study, a small amount of water is allowed
  • if you are prone to flatulence, take a sorbent or a drug that reduces gas formation the day before
  • in case of examination with contrast, take a blood test for creatinine and report the result

CT scan of the pelvis

  • 2 days before the examination, do not eat foods that cause gas formation (legumes, raw vegetables, fruits, dairy products, black bread)
  • do not eat 6 hours before the study, it is allowed to drink water in small sips
  • drink 2-3 glasses of water 2 hours before the procedure so that the bladder is half full
  • in case of examination with contrast - to take a blood test for creatinine

CT scan of the spine and joints

  • no special training required
  • remove metal objects, belts, jewelry before the examination
  • in case of CT with contrast, limit fluid intake 2 hours before the examination and take a blood test for creatinine beforehand

CT of blood vessels (CT angiography)

  • be sure to take a blood test for creatinine and report the result
  • limit fluid intake 2 hours before the study
  • Do not drink alcohol and caffeinated beverages 24 hours before the examination
  • if you are allergic to contrast agents or iodine, inform your doctor

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