Services
CAT Scan (CT)
Phone: (254)288-8986 / 8331
Fax: (254) 288-8924
Hours of Operation: 24 hour operation
Scheduling: Monday – Friday 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Appointments: Appointments are available Monday – Friday between 7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
What is a CAT Scan (CT)?
A CAT Scan is a sophisticated method of x-raying the body in three dimensions. A computer with a rotating x-ray tube turns rapidly to create images of body parts from all angles. The computer takes the data and puts it together to create thin slices of the scanned anatomy. Patients are scanned via a long bed called the "couch". The couch slides through a large metal archway called the "Gantry". It is in the Gantry where the Scan takes place. The scan consists of images through very thin sections of the body, somewhat like a loaf of bread. Because of it's exact nature, the preps for exams are very important. It is necessary to remain motionless during scanning time.
When you make an appointment keep in mind that we can only scan a certain number of people in one day. We cannot control the speed of the exam. So please be on time. Your punctuality affects other patients in our scheduled day.
Types of CAT Scans (CT) Exams:
IV Contrast Only Studies
These exams are usually:
- Chest CT
- Neck CT
- Head CT
- Some Liver, Pancreas, or Kidney CT’s
Nothing to eat 4 hours prior to your examination. Continue to take your normal prescribed medications**. Be sure to bring old chest X-rays if your exam is for a lung nodule evaluation.
Abdomen or Pelvis
Nothing to eat after 10:00 P.M. the night before your examination.
Drink Gastrographin/RediCat Bottle at 9:00 P.M. and one hour prior to the time of your exam.
Continue to take your medication**.
Head/Neck CT prep
Nothing to eat 4 hours prior to your examination. Continue to take your medication**.
Extremity
There is no prep for this exam.
**Glucophage(Metformin)
If you are taking Glucophage (Metformin) for blood sugar control, you must stop this medication 48 hours before your scheduled exam. You can restart your medication after the exam is complete.
Please feel free to contact our staff at (254)288-8986 / 8331 if you have any questions or concerns.
page last modified on: 5/7/2013