CT Extremity/Bone/Spine
C.T. Scan
A C.T. (Computerized Tomography) Scan is a test that uses a computer to make an x-ray image or picture of a very thin section of the body.
The Procedure:
You will lie on a table that can be moved into the doughnut-like scanner opening. You will be held onto the table by a strap. After your body is positioned, the camera will move around the body part being tested. An x-ray picture will be taken, and the information processed by a computer so that your body parts can be viewed in thin cross-sectional slices. It is very important that you do not move during the scan as this may blur the picture. During the scan, you will hear clicking noises.
Procedure time: Less than 30 minutes
Inpatient and Outpatient Preparation Instructions:
- There is no prep for bone, (spinal scans), or extremity scans.
- If you have had x-rays at another facility that correlate with your CT scan, please bring them with you for your appointment
For Your Information:
- Any woman who is pregnant, or thinks she might be, should let her doctor know before having the scan.
- Please inform the technologist of any known allergies.
- Do not bring jewelry or large amounts of money with you.
- You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
- Relax and follow the directions given to you by the CT technologist. Please remember to lie still during the test to get a clear picture.
- You will be able to leave the x-ray department when the test is finished. Discharge instructions will be given to outpatients.
- The Radiologist (x-ray doctor) will “read” the scan and give the results to your doctor in 2-3 days. Your doctor will share the results of this test with you; feel free to ask the doctor if you have any questions.
- If you have any questions about getting ready for your test, please call 419-394-3335, ext. 3550 for assistance.