CT Scan
Procedure Scheduling: (319) 398-6868
What is a CT Scan:
CT scanning—sometimes called CAT scanning—is a non-invasive, painless medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.
CT imaging uses special X-ray equipment to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body and a computer to join them together in cross-sectional views of the area being studied. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed.
CT scans of internal organs, bone, soft tissues and blood vessels provide greater clarity than conventional X-ray exams.
Some CT scans require the injection of a contrast medium (iodine) in a vein. This provides an enhanced image of certain tissues of the body. Some exams also require you to drink a pre-mixed solution barium solution to better visualize your stomach and small bowel.
A CT scan usually takes between 15-30 minutes.
Preparation:
The various CT scans require little or no preparation. The exact preparation for the scan you are to have should be listed below. Please ask your nurse or call your doctor’s office if you have any questions about the preparation.
Spines, extremities, sinuses, ears, mastoids or temporal bones, facial bones, chest high resolution: No preparation.
Head, neck, chest: Do not eat anything for 4 hours before the exam. Drink only clear liquids, such as plain jello, tea, fruit drinks without pulp, black coffee, and water. If you are over 50, diabetic or have high blood pressure, a blood test is needed before your scan. (See NOTE:)
Abdomen and/or pelvis: Do not eat anything 6 hours before your scan. Clear liquids are allowed. One hour before your scan you will need to drink a pre-mixed barium solution. The solution is picked up at the Radiology Department at Mercy Medical Center or at the Imaging Center on Council Street or, some physician’s offices can provide you the barium at their office 1 to 2 days before the exam. You may drink the mixture at home or at the hospital, if you arrive 1 hour before the exam.
There are no special routines after the CT scan. You will be able to eat after the scan unless your doctor has indicated otherwise. The results of the scan will be sent to your doctor.
NOTE:If you are having an IV contrast for your CT exam, a lab blood test called serum creatinine is usually required if you are over 50, diabetic, or have high blood pressure. Check with your doctor’s nurse. The blood test must be done within one month of the scan. It may be done on the same day if you come at least one half hour before your appointment time.
PLEASE BRING A LIST OF CURRENT MEDICATIONS YOU ARE TAKING.
Outpatient Registration:
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time or one hour before the exam if you are drinking the barium mixture at the hospital.
IF YOU ARE HAVING THIS PROCEDURE AT MERCY MEDICAL CENTER : Park in the Mercy Medical Center Parking Ramp, located at the corner of 8th Street and 8th Avenue SE . Proceed to Radiology department. Located on Ground floor down from Emergency Department.
IF YOU ARE HAVING THIS PROCEDURE AT THE MERCY HEALTH PLAZA IMAGING CENTER: The Imaging Center is located in the NE corner of the Plaza next to Galaxy Theatre, at 5264 Council St. NE. Park in front of the building and proceed to the Reception desk.
Your appointment date and time:
