CT Scan With Contrast, General

para>This is an image of a person having a CT scan. The person is lying on the back on the table going into the scanner and there is a technician at a computer talking with the patient.View Original

This is an image of a person having a CT scan. The person is lying on the back on the table going into the scanner and there is a technician at a computer talking with the patient.

View Original

What will the results be?

A doctor with special training in reading x-rays will look at the CT pictures. The doctor will be looking to see if there is a problem that needs treatment. The contrast will make the problem easier to see. Your doctor will get the findings and will talk to you about them. ‚

What happens before the procedure?

Your doctor will talk with you about your history and do an exam. Talk to your doctor about:
- If you are pregnant or nursing
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- If you weigh more than 300 pounds (135 kg). The machine has a weight limit.
You may be given a dye called "contrast" for this procedure. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to dye or shellfish.
Your doctor may give you a drug to empty out your stomach and bowels before the procedure.
Your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink anything a few hours before the procedure.
Tell your doctor if you have problems with small spaces. You may be given a drug to help you relax.
You may be asked to take off anything metal. This would include jewelry, watch, hairpins, or hearing aids. You may also have to take out any removable dentures before the procedure.

What happens during the procedure?

A CT scan does not hurt. Some people feel uncomfortable while lying on the table. Most people are awake for this test. Sometimes, children need a drug to help them stay calm. You will lie down on a table that fits and slides into the center of the machine. The machine is shaped like a large circle with a hole in the center. You will go into the machine head first. You must lie very still during the test. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time during the test. ‚
The contrast can be given in a few ways, based on the kind of test you are having. You may have: ‚

Oral contrast that is a pill or liquid that you swallow before or during your test.
IV contrast that is put in through an IV in your arm or hand.
Contrast that you breathe in.
A liquid contrast that is given as an enema.

You may have a light flushing feeling in your body. Your body may feel warm or may itch slightly. Sometimes, you have a metallic taste in your mouth with the dye. These signs will only last a few seconds. These are all mild reactions to the contrast and will most often go away very quickly. ‚
You can talk to the person doing the scan even though no one is in the room with you. You may be given music to listen to during the procedure. If you have trouble breathing, or if you are in any pain, tell the person doing the test right away. ‚
This test often takes less than 30 minutes. ‚

What happens after the procedure?

You may go home after the procedure.
Have someone drive you home if you are given a drug to relax for the procedure.
Your doctor may give you special orders if you were given a contrast dye.
Ask your doctor when you can get the results.

What care is needed at home?

You may go back to your normal activities after the procedure.
If you were given a contrast dye, you should drink 6 to 8 glasses of water. Wash your hands after using the toilet.

What follow-up care is needed?

If you have not heard the results of the CT scan within 1 week, call your doctor. The results will help your doctor understand what kind of problem you have. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚

What problems could happen?

This procedure is safe and most often has no problems. You are exposed to a very safe, low level of radiation for a CT scan. Most contrast dyes are safe and cause no reaction. In rare cases, you might be allergic to the contrast dye. ‚

Where can I learn more?

Food and Drug Administration ‚
http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/MedicalImaging/MedicalX-Rays/ucm115318.htm ‚
Radiological Society of North America ‚
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bodyct ‚

Last Reviewed Date

2015-08-04 ‚

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Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚

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