Certain exams require a special dye, called contrast, to be delivered into the body before the test starts. Contrast can highlight specific areas inside the body, which creates a clearer image.

Some people have allergies to IV contrast and may need to take medications before their test in order to safely receive this substance.

Contrast can be given several ways, and depends on the type of CT being performed.

It may be delivered through a vein (IV) in your hand or forearm. You might drink the contrast before your scan. When you actually drink the contrast depends on the type of exam being done. The contrast liquid may taste chalky, although some are flavored to make it taste a little better. The contrast eventually passes out of your body through your stools.

If contrast is used, you may also be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4-6 hours before the test.

If you weigh more than 300 pounds, have your doctor contact the scanner operator before the exam. CT scanners have a weight limit. Too much weight can cause damage to the scanner's working parts.

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

Note: Please be prepared to answer questions regarding allergies when scheduling your appointment. Let us know about any serious allergic reactions at time of scheduling.
 
Chest CT

Most CT scans are done with intravenous contrast unless otherwise specified by clinician. This intravenous contrast material is injected into a vein in your arm to better define the blood vessels of your lungs and mediastinum.

If your test requires this injection and you are a diabetic or over the age of sixty, you will need to have blood work done within 30 days of your scheduled appointment. Your doctor must order a BUN and Creatinine level to check that your kidney functions are normal.

Note: Please be prepared to answer questions regarding allergies when scheduling your appointment. Let us know about any serious allergic reactions at time of scheduling.
 
Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis CT

You need to pick up an oral contrast drink from your doctors office or the CT scan department prior to your appointment day.

You will receive instructions on the amount and the times you are expected to swallow the contrast. We recommend you refrigerate the contrast, but it is not necessary.

This oral contrast helps us see your stomach, small intestine and your colon. (Even if these organs are not your primary reason for your exam.)

Note: Do not eat 4 hours prior to your appointment time. However, you are allowed to take your daily medicines with a small amount of water.
 
Neck CT scan (soft tissue)

Most CT scans are done with intravenous contrast unless otherwise specified by clinician. This intravenous contrast material is injected into a vein in your arm to better define the blood vessels.

If your test requires this injection and you are a diabetic or over the age of sixty, you will need to have blood work done within 30 days your scheduled appointment. Your doctor must order a BUN and Creatinine level to check that your kidney functions are normal.

(The only time we don't inject is if there is a question of a salivary ductal stone.)

Note: Please be prepared to answer questions regarding allergies when scheduling your appointment. Let us know about any serious allergic reactions at time of booking.

Note: Do not eat 2 hours prior to your appointment time. 
 
Cervical Spine CT

No preparation needed. Please bring any pertaining films (X-ray, CT or MRI) for radiologist comparison.
 
Thoracic Spine CT

No preparation needed. Please bring any pertaining films (X-ray, CT or MRI) for radiologist comparison.
 
 
Lumbar Spine CT

No preparation needed. Please bring any pertaining films (X-ray, CT or MRI) for radiologist comparison.

 
 
Extremities CT

No preparation needed. Please bring any pertaining films (X-ray, CT or MRI) for radiologist comparison.
 
 
Head Scan CT

Many head CT scans are performed with intravenous contrast material. This intravenous contrast material is injected into a vein in your arm to better define the blood vessels.

If your test requires this injection and you are a diabetic or over the age of sixty, you will need to have blood work done within 30 days of your scheduled appointment. Your doctor must order a BUN and Creatinine level to check that your kidney functions are normal.

Note: Please be prepared to answer questions regarding allergies when scheduling your appointment. Let us know about any serious allergic reactions at time of booking.

Note: Do not eat 2 hours prior to your appointment time.
 
 
Sinus / Facial CT

No preparation needed. Please bring any pertaining films (X-ray, CT or MRI) for radiologist comparison.
 
 
Commonly asked questions

"How long is the CT scan?"
The actual procedure time is between 10 - 30 minutes depending on your procedure. Please allow time for paperwork and emergencies.

"Can I take my daily medications?"
Yes, you can always take your medicine prior to any of our procedures.

"Who will read my CT Scan?"
A radiologist, who is a physician specialized and experienced in CT and other Radiology procedures, will analyze the images and send a signed interpretation to your ordering physician.

"How soon will my doctor receive my test results?"
Your doctor usually receives your test results within 48 hours.

"Can I get a copy of my results?"
A copy of your results can be obtained through your physician's office.

• ct-scan-patient-preparation
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• CT Scan Patient Preparation, contrast, drink, eat
• CT Scan Patient Preparation instructions. Schedule a CAT Scan in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, or Glendale.
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