CT Information for Patients and Family

WHAT IS A CT SCAN?

Computed Tomography (CT) uses X-rays and computers to create a realistic, 3D image. A dye is sometimes injected into your vein to reconstruct cross-sectional images of various parts of the body. The images are reviewed by a Radiologist who will use this exam to help in your diagnosis.

WHERE DO I GET A CT SCAN?

Georgian Bay General Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging Department is located on the main level just past the switchboard and in close proximity to the Emergency Department.

HOW LONG DOES A CT SCAN TAKE?

Depending on the test, most are completed in approximately 15 minutes but can range from 5-20 minutes. Emergency patients take precedence and may cause delays, however we do our best to remain on schedule.

If you are unable to keep your appointment, please notify us by telephone immediately.

GBGH DI Reception- 705-526-1300 x 5090

BEFORE A CT SCAN

PLEASE FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS RELEVANT TO YOUR EXAMINATION:

C.T. Scan Head, Chest, Neck or Spine

1. Please do not wear any jewellery or metal artefacts (i.e. zippers, metal buttons, under wires) over the area being examined. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.

C.T. Scan Abdomen or Pelvis (with contrast)

1. Pick up oral contrast preparation in the Diagnostic Imaging Department at least 2 days prior to your appointment (You will be notified when your appointment is made if you are required to do this). Alternatively, you will be advised to drink 1L of water over the course of 60-90 minutes.
2. Nothing to eat or drink for 2 HOURS before your appointment time (with the exception of the oral contrast/water)
3. Please do not wear any jewellery or metal artefacts (i.e. zippers, metal buttons, under wires) over the area being examined. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
4. Be prepared to be in the department for approximately 1-2 hours. Approximately 15 minutes of that time will be spent in the scan room.

IF YOU HAVE ALLERGIES, KIDNEY PROBLEMS, DIABETES OR IF THERE IS A CHANCE THAT YOU MIGHT BE PREGNANT, PLEASE TELL THE TECHNOLOGIST OR NURSE WHEN YOU ARRIVE.

DURING THE CT SCAN

You may get an intravenous (IV) line put into a large vein in your arm. This line will be used to give you a dye (contrast) to help the procedure. When the images are acquired, you will be asked to be still and hold your breath for approximately 15 seconds. During the scan, the table will move through what looks like a large donut or ring. This is the part of the machine that scans your body takes the image. Once the technologist collects all the images, your IV will be removed. The scan will take about 15 minutes to finish.

AFTER THE CT SCAN

If you received dye as part of your scan, you will be asked to remain in the department for 15 minutes after your scan is complete.

Results from the Radiologist will be sent to your ordering Physician to discuss with you.