Advanced CT/CAT Scans

When you're dealing with complex symptoms or unexplained conditions, accurate and fast diagnosis is essential. A CT/CAT scan can reveal critical details that help detect diseases or injuries early, allowing for timely intervention. Whether it's pinpointing cancer, cardiovascular issues, or musculoskeletal problems, CT imaging gives your doctor the clarity needed to make informed decisions about your treatment. At Element Medical Imaging, we provide medical CT scan services that deliver detailed, reliable results, so you can move forward with the best care plan for your health.

Exam Explanation

Computed Tomography uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body. The computer takes the data and creates a visual image of each slice of information. The Radiologist is able to review the slices of information in sequence, which creates a two or three dimensional image of the inside of your body. CT scan imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue: lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels with great clarity. CT Computed Tomography helps the Radiologists diagnose problems such as cancers, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, trauma and musculoskeletal disorders.

Exam Preparation

Tell your physician or the technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant or if you have a history of allergies. Prior to the CT exam a technologist may speak with you on the phone to obtain necessary medical information and discuss instructions to be followed the day of the exam.

During the Exam

After you arrive for your appointment, depending on the area of your body to be scanned, you may need to change into a gown. Some CT/CAT scans may require a CT contrast agent to help highlight the areas inside your body. This is given in the form of a drink and/or injection. Once you are prepared for your exam, your technologist will help position you on the table of the CT scanner. Usually you will lay face up and the table will move into the large donut shaped scanner. While inside the scanner, you will be able to see your outside surroundings. The technologist will talk with you from the control room where they can see you at all times. It is very important to lay completely still. Periodically, the voice-activated component may speak to you, instructing you to hold your breath for a short period, not swallow, etc. Most med CT examinations take about 15-20 minutes.