What Is CT Scan?
A computed tomography scan is a medical imaging technique used to obtain detailed internal images of the body. The personnel that perform CT scans are called radiographers or radiology technologists.
What Is CT Scan Used For?
A CT scan can be used to visualize nearly all parts of the body and is used to diagnose disease or injury as well as to plan medical, surgical or radiation treatment.
What Is The Main Purpose Of CT Scan?
Chronic back pain or an injury to the spine are among the most common reasons to have a CT scan. A doctor may also order a spinal CT scan to: Evaluate spinal fractures. Assess the condition of the spine before and after surgical procedures.
What Should You Not Do Before CT Scan?
Before Your CT Scan:
- Do not eat or drink for 4 hours before your CT scan.
- Arrive 2 hours before your scheduled CT scan to drink a special liquid that will help the technologist see your stomach and bowels.
- Have blood tests performed several days before your CT scan, if your physician requires them.
Reasons You May Need a CT Scan:
Your doctor may recommend a CT scan to help:
- Diagnose muscle and bone disorders, such as bone tumors and fractures
- Pinpoint the location of a tumor, infection or blood clot
- Guide procedures such as surgery, biopsy and radiation therapy
- Detect and monitor diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart disease, lung nodules and liver masses
- Monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments, such as cancer treatment
- Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding
How CT Scans Work:
CT scanners are large machines shaped like a donut, which contain an x-ray tube and detectors on opposite sides. In the center is a short tunnel, where the examination table slides in and out. When you enter the scanner, the x-ray equipment rotates around you, producing vital internal images. The full scan should take just a few minutes, making it a less stressful procedure for those who suffer from claustrophobia.
Preparation for a CT scan depends on whether your doctor has ordered a contrast examination. If so, you will need to refrain from eating anything for a few hours before the procedure, according to your doctor’s instructions. With intravenous contrast, you’ll receive an injection of dye that may make you feel warm or flushed and produce a metallic taste in your mouth. You will also need to remove any jewelry or metal from your person.
After a CT scan, you can continue your day normally. If you underwent a contrast scan, be sure to drink several glasses of water throughout the day to aid in the elimination of the dye.
How Do You Prepare:
Depending on which part of your body is being scanned, you may be asked to:
- Take off some or all of your clothing and wear a hospital gown
- Remove metal objects, such as a belt, jewelry, dentures and eyeglasses, which might interfere with image results
- Refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before your scan
How Long Does CT Scan Take?
You can expect your CT scan appointment to last approximately 15 minutes start to finish. If you are having a CT scan with oral contrast, it could take as long as an hour and 15 minutes. Once the CT scan is complete, a radiologist will study the images and share the results with your doctor.
How Long To Wait For CT Scan Results?
Getting your results
You should get your results within 1 or 2 weeks. Waiting for results can make you anxious. Ask your doctor or nurse how long it will take to get them.
Is CT Scan Painful?
It uses computers and a rotating X-ray machine to take cross-sectional pictures of the body. CT scans give doctors more detailed images than X-rays can provide. Unlike X-rays, they can show organs, soft tissues, and blood vessels in addition to bones. CT scans are painless.
Benefits Of CT Scan:
- CT scanning is painless, noninvasive, and accurate.
- A major advantage of CT is its ability to image bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels all at the same time.
- Unlike conventional x-rays, CT scanning provides very detailed images of many types of tissue as well as the lungs, bones, and blood vessels.
CT Scan Prices In Ghana:
PRICE OF VARIOUS SCAN ; PELVIC USG SCAN, GH¢25.00 ; ABDOMINAL USG SCAN, GH¢30.00 ; ABDOMINO-PELVIC USG SCAN, GH¢40.00 ABDOMINO-PELVIC USG SCAN: GH¢40.00 ABDOMINAL USG SCAN: GH¢30.00 PELVIC USG SCAN: GH¢25.00.