Has your doctor scheduled a diagnostic imaging appointment for you? When you have a CT scan, NYC centers like City Wide Radiology have some tips for a smoother experience. The Brooklyn imaging center provides comprehensive imaging services and explains how to prepare for your CT scan appointment.
You can schedule CT scan services in Brooklyn, NY, at (718) 236-6800.
General Pre-CT Scan Diagnosis and Instructions for Your Appointment
When computed tomography crosses X-ray technology with computer processing, the doctor sees a detailed cross-sectional image of the area they’re scanning on your body. The practitioner can see your bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels with exceptional clarity, which might be why over 80 million CT scans are performed in the United States each year.
Not all injuries require a CT scan diagnosis, but this depends on the situation. In the Journal of Hand Surgery Global Online, one study showed that 20% of patients underwent preoperative CT scans to assess their potential fractures. Other injuries may require CT scans with contrast dye to enhance the visibility of specific tissues, organs, or blood vessels.
Following your doctor’s specific pre-CT scan instructions can ensure more accurate imaging results. Your healthcare provider may give you different guidelines depending on which part of your body needs scanning and whether the process will use contrast dye. If there’s contrast material, you’ll typically need to avoid eating solid foods for four hours before, but you may continue drinking clear liquids during this fasting period.
The technologist administers contrast through an intravenous line in your arm or hand, or you may drink an oral contrast solution. You might experience a warm sensation, a metallic taste, or a feeling of flushed skin. These sensations are normal and last only a few seconds.
Inform your medical team about any allergies, especially to iodine or contrast materials.
What To Bring to Your CT Scan in Brooklyn, NY
For a CT scan, NYC doctors may recommend that you wear loose, comfortable clothes without metal zippers, buttons, jewelry, watches, hairpins, or underwires. Many facilities ask you to change into a hospital gown if you don’t have the appropriate clothing for the scan. You may also have to remove hearing aids and dentures.
Other CT scan preparation tips include bringing your photo ID, insurance card, and current medication list to your appointment. If you have previous imaging results or X-rays, bring those as well.
What To Expect During CT Scan Procedures
An American Journal of Roentgenology study found that CT scan diagnostic accuracy ranges from 92% to 97%, demonstrating the reliability of this imaging technology. Japan leads the world in CT scanner accessibility with 115.7 scanners per million people, demonstrating the global importance of this diagnostic technology. Even so, understanding what happens during your scan can help you feel more prepared and comfortable.
You will lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of a large, circular CT scanner. The technologist positions you correctly and may use straps to help you stay still. The scanner rotates around your body, making buzzing, clicking, or whirring sounds as the technologist operates the equipment from another room.
Guidelines for CT Scan Appointment Recovery at a Brooklyn Imaging Center
Typically, our CT scan in Brooklyn, NY, will take between 15 and 30 minutes. Most of the appointment time involves preparation and positioning.
If you received contrast dye, drink plenty of water to help flush it from your system. A radiologist will report to your referring physician within 24 to 48 hours.
Where To Get a CT Scan in NYC
Are you choosing between CT scan and MRI options, or wondering where to get a CT scan in NYC after a car accident or work injury? Come to City Wide Radiology’s NYC imaging center or call (718) 236-6800.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions About CT Scan Preparation
Here are common questions people have about computed tomography scan prep.
Can You Eat Before a CT Scan?
You can eat before a CT scan without contrast, but you typically need to fast for four hours before a scan with contrast material.
What Should I Not Do Before Arriving at Your NYC Imaging Center?
If you’re having a contrast scan at an imaging center, avoid solid foods and don’t wear metal objects or jewelry. Inform your doctor about allergies and medications.
Is a CT Scan Safe for Everyone in NYC?
Yes, almost everyone can have a safe CT scan. NYC centers use only low doses of radiation. Pregnant women should discuss alternatives.