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A CT (or CAT scan) is an x-ray procedure enhanced by a computer to give a three-dimensional picture of your body for the radiologist to study. With a CT exam, the x-ray beam moves in a circle around the body taking many different views or "slices" of the same organ or structure. This "slice" of an image shows both bone and soft tissue, with a series of slices captured on film. CT provides much greater detail than conventional x-ray.
CT scans may be done with or without contrast, a agent taken by mouth or injected into an IV line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly.
CT scans may be performed to help diagnose tumors, investigate internal bleeding or check for other internal injuries or damage.
Patient Preps for CT
Oral Contrast is only required for studies of the abdomen or pelvis.
Please bring the most recent CT scan with you to your appointment. Redicat is oral contrast and is available through your referring physician or at the radiology facility you go to. Radicat does not need to be mixed with any liquid, do not dilute. It may be refrigerated.
CT appointment times at or before 1:30 pm
Drink one bottle of Redicat the night before your CT scan at 10:00 pm. Drink the second bottle of Redicat the morning of your CT scan, 1-1/2 hours before your appointment time. Do not eat after midnight before your appointment. You may drink only small amounts of clear liquid until the time of your appointment.
CT appointment times between 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm
Drink one bottle of Redicat the morning of your CT scan at 9:00 a.m. Drink the second bottle of Redicat 1-1/2 hours before your appointment time. You may eat a light breakfast that morning and only small amounts of clear liquid until the time of your appointment.
CT appointment times after 5:30 pm
You may eat a light breakfast and lunch the day of your CT scan. Drink one bottle of Redicat 6 hours before your appointment time. Drink the second bottle of Redicat 1-1/2 hours before your appointment time. You may drink only small amounts of clear liquid until your appointment time. |
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