Medical Health Encyclopedia

CT scan

The CT scanner has a weight limit to prevent damage to its internal mechanisms. Have the health care provider contact the scanner operator if you weigh more than 300 pounds.

Since x-rays have difficulty passing through metal, the patient will be asked to remove jewelry and wear a hospital gown during the study.

How the test will feel:

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The x-rays are painless. The primary discomfort may be from the need to lie still on the table.

If intravenous contrast dye is given, the patient may initially feel a slight burning sensation within the injected arm, a metallic taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These sensations are normal and usually reside within a few seconds.

Why the test is performed:

CT provides rapid, detailed cross-sectional imaging of the patient which can then be reconstructed into three-dimensional models, as needed. Intravenous contrast enhanced scans allow for evaluation of vascular structures and further evaluation of masses and tumors.

CT is often utilized in the trauma setting to evaluate the brain, chest, and abdomen. As well, CT can be used to guide interventional procedures, such as biopsies and placement of drainage tubes.

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