What is a CT exam?
By: WUTR Eyewitness News
Updated: March 16, 2012
A CT scan, also known as a "CAT Scan" can be vital when it comes to
diagnosing an illness. It provides a window into the body you couldn't
otherwise see. Eyewitness News gets up close and personal with the
technology at Little Falls Hospital.
In the span of 20 to 30 minutes patients can undergo a CT scan.
The advanced technology shows health care professionals what is going on inside, without being invasive.
"This captures way more images than a regular X-ray, and you can really visualize the anatomy on the inside, it is better than just one shot. This takes a picture that comes out looking like a loaf of bread... as opposed to an X-ray that is just one shot," says Krista Spooner a technician that works with the technology every day at work.
The amount of radiation received from the CT scan does not hurt the patient. Spooner describes the sensation of going through the scan this way, "Initially some patients experience a funny metallic taste and a hot flash. It lasts a few seconds then it goes away, but you feel a warm sensation in the pelvic area, which goes away quickly."
For those who are claustrophobic and worry about the space, they are never truly alone. During the scan technicians watch patients through a window, but they also watch them through a security camera. There are microphones and speakers located above the patient, so they can communicate back and forth.
To prepare for a CT scan patients may need an IV, or they may need to drink an oral contrast. Blood work may also be needed prior to coming in for the scan. There is a risk, that you might be allergic to the IV contrast, but nurses are prepared to reverse any reaction. CT scan results are usually available within 24 hours.
In the span of 20 to 30 minutes patients can undergo a CT scan.
The advanced technology shows health care professionals what is going on inside, without being invasive.
"This captures way more images than a regular X-ray, and you can really visualize the anatomy on the inside, it is better than just one shot. This takes a picture that comes out looking like a loaf of bread... as opposed to an X-ray that is just one shot," says Krista Spooner a technician that works with the technology every day at work.
The amount of radiation received from the CT scan does not hurt the patient. Spooner describes the sensation of going through the scan this way, "Initially some patients experience a funny metallic taste and a hot flash. It lasts a few seconds then it goes away, but you feel a warm sensation in the pelvic area, which goes away quickly."
For those who are claustrophobic and worry about the space, they are never truly alone. During the scan technicians watch patients through a window, but they also watch them through a security camera. There are microphones and speakers located above the patient, so they can communicate back and forth.
To prepare for a CT scan patients may need an IV, or they may need to drink an oral contrast. Blood work may also be needed prior to coming in for the scan. There is a risk, that you might be allergic to the IV contrast, but nurses are prepared to reverse any reaction. CT scan results are usually available within 24 hours.
