With our state-of-the-art LightSpeed CT Scanner from GE Medical Systems (pictured above), we offer you the finest CT technology. The GE LightSpeed is a helical, multi-slice CT capable of faster scan times, higher resolution images and the latest, most advanced clinical applications. You have come to expect superior image quality at CMI, and the new LightSpeed will surpass your expectations.

CT ( Computed Tomography)

Computed tomography, also called CT scan, CAT scan, or computerized axial tomography, is a combination of focused x-ray beams and computerized production of a specific body part or an organ. A thin x-ray beam moves rapidly around the designated area, generating multiple images from different angles allowing for a three dimensional scan. CT scans are completely painless.

How do I prepare for a CT scan?

If contrast media will be used during your scan, you may be asked to fast for three to four hours before. You may also be asked not to drink anything for one hour before the exam. For a body scan, you'll be asked to wear a gown and to remove all jewelry. You may also be asked to drink Barium before your scan. Barium is a thick chalky liquid that enhances your stomach and intestines on a CT scan. For a head scan, wear loose, comfortable clothing and remove dentures, glasses, hearing aids, earrings, hairpins and any other items that may be detected by the x-ray beam.

What is contrast media?

Contrast media is a chemical that changes the effect of the x-rays and shows on the CT scan to allow better imaging of blood vessels and organs. Contrast media may be given orally or through an IV injection, or both.

What will happen during my CT scan?

You'll lie on a table that is connected to the large, doughnut-shaped scanner ring. The designated part of your body will be positioned in the middle of the ring. If contrast media are to be used, some preliminary scans may be made before the injection. During the scan, the table will move slightly every few seconds. You'll hear clicking or buzzing sounds throughout the scan. It's important that you remain as still as possible so that the scanner can get the best possible pictures. Although you'll remain alone in the room during the scan, you'll be able to speak to your radiologist or technologist through a two-way intercom. During the scan, your technologist will watch you closely through an observation window.

How long does a CT scan take?

It all depends on what you are getting scanned. Head scan takes about 15 minutes, while a scan of the rest of the body can take up to 45 minutes.

Is there any side effects?

No, but if you've been given contrast media, you'll need to drink plenty of fluids after the scan to help flush the media out of your body.

Be sure to tell us if you're:

• pregnant
• diabetic
• allergic to any foods or drugs
• being treated for any type of infection.
• if you've had contrast media in the past, and if you had any side effects at that time.

Computed Tomography..some basics:
 
While traditional x rays image organs in two dimensions (with the possibility that organs in the front of the body are superimposed over those in the back), CT scans allow for a more three-dimensional effect. Precise sections of the body can be located and imaged as cross-sectional views. The CT image shows a computer's analysis of each section detected by the x-ray beam.

Various densities of tissue can be easily distinguished.

The patient is asked to lie on a gantry, or narrow table, that slides into the center of the scanner. The scanner looks like a doughnut and is round in the middle, which allows the x-ray beam to rotate around the patient. The scanner section may also be tilted slightly to allow for certain cross-sectional angles.

The patient will feel the gantry move as images are acquired. In some studies, such as chest CTs, the patient will be asked to hold his or her breath during image capture.

CT scans are used to image a wide variety of body structures and internal organs. In some diagnoses, CT scans have become the first imaging exam of choice by doctors. The computerized image is three-dimensional and so focused and sharp, that many tissues can be better differentiated than on standard x-rays.
Common CT indications include:

• Aorta scans focus on the thoracic or abdominal aorta to locate aneurysms and other possible aortic diseases.
  
• Body scans will often be used to observe abdominal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, spleen, and lymph nodes, and extremities.
• Brain scans can detect hematomas, tumors, and strokes. The introduction of CT scanning, especially spiral CT, has helped reduce the need for more invasive procedures such as cerebral angiography.
• Chest scans are useful in distinguishing tumors and in detailing accumulation of fluid in chest infections.
• Sinus studies can show details of sinusitis, and bone fractures. Physicians may order CT of the sinuses to provide an accurate map for surgery.