CT Scan

BMH has a technically advanced 64-multislice Computed Tomography (CT) scanner ensuring quality diagnostics, improved speed of delivery and optimized patient safety (less radiation).

By producing clear, accurate thin image slices for increased detection of lesions and high resolution of images for more accurate diagnosis, we are able to obtain multiple slice imaging and increased image flexibility in a shorter period of time at less dose. In addition, this technology in conjunction with our high speed networking offers almost immediate viewing for our doctors, whether they are in the emergency room, hospitalists, or in their offices.

WHAT IS COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY?

CT scanning—sometimes called CAT scanning—is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

CT scanning combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body in cross-section. This cross section image provides improved clarity and detail for internal organs, bones, soft tissues and blood vessels as compared to convention x-ray imaging.

This detailed information is used by radiologists to determine if there is a medical problem such as

• Cancer
• Lung Disease, Pneumonia, Pulmonary Embolism
• Cardiovascular Disease, Stroke, Aortic Aneurysms
• Infectious Disease
• Appendicitis, Diverticulitis, or Crohn’s and other Bowel Disease
• Trauma
• Muskuloskeletal (Bone and Spine) Disease
• A need for CT guided biopsy or other intervention

CT also helps the doctor to define the extent and exact location of the problem, and other important details. The images can also show if no abnormality is present, which helps the doctor as they can refocus attention away from unnecessary medical concerns. In some circumstances, the technologist or physician may reconstruct images (3D rendering, MIP) to aide in further diagnostics.

BENEFITS OF CT:

• CT can improve your provider’s medical management of your condition by:
• Determining when surgery may be necessary
• Reducing the need for exploratory surgery
• Improve the diagnosis and treatment of cancer
• Reduce the length of your hospital stay
• Help guide treatment for injuries, cardiac disease and stroke
• Improve placement into appropriate areas of care, such as Intensive Care Units
• Provide a quick assessment of your medical condition—especially in critical situations (car accident, fall, etc)

What is the preparation?

• Your physician’s office or hospital personnel will give you complete instructions prior to your examination. The preparations vary according to the area being imaged or the injection of contrast medium.
• Any woman who thinks she may be pregnant should inform her doctor before scheduling the procedure.
• If a contrast medium is to be used, prior blood work may be required. The technologist will question you about your medical history and allergies and will ask you to sign a consent form prior to using a contrast medium.
• You may be asked to change into an x-ray gown for the procedure, depending upon the body part to be scanned. Jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses and dentures will be removed prior to a head scan.

What about after the procedure?

In the event that you were given barium to drink as part of your preparation, after the procedure you need to drink 6-8 glass of water during that day. You may resume normal activities.

What about the results?

Once the examination is completed, your exam will be reviewed by a radiologist and compared to any previous examinations of the same area you may have had taken previously. A written report of the radiologist interpretation will be forwarded to your physician. Please allow a few days before contacting your physician for the results.

If you have any questions before or after your appointment, please call the Radiology Department at 802-257-8820.