Computed Tomography (CT)

At Radiology Associates of Tallahassee, we are pleased to offer the full range of diagnostic CT services. Our state-of-the-art CT scans combine specialized x-rays with innovative computers to provide images of anatomy in exquisite detail. Clearer pictures allow your doctor to make an earlier and more precise diagnosis of your condition and response to treatment.

Learn More About Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed Tomography (CT), also known as computerized tomography or computed axial tomography (CAT), is an advanced X-ray technology that produces a sequence of detailed cross-sectional images of the interior of the head, spine, chest, abdomen or other areas of the body. The complex images are produced by rotating a focused X-ray beam around the patient and taking these X-ray images from numerous angles, guided by a computer. CT examinations produce detailed organ studies by capturing multiple individual image “slices”.

For more information on this and other radiology procedures, please visit www.radiologyinfo.org.

 

How Should I Prepare?
Please follow the preparation instructions provided at the time of scheduling, appointment confirmation, or in the patient portal. Because preparation requirements vary by CT exam, it is important to follow the specific instructions given for your appointment.
If there is any chance you may be pregnant, please notify the technologist before the exam begins.
When Will I Receive Results?

One of our board-certified radiologists will interpret your exam and send a report to your physician within 5 business days. You can also access your report as soon as it is finalized through the online patient portal. For any information about the findings, please contact your referring physician.

What Should I Expect?

For your CT exam, you’ll lie on a table that moves through a doughnut-shaped scanner. As the scan begins, you may hear humming or clicking sounds. The scanner takes images in small steps, and a computer processes them for the technologist to view.

To get the best images, it’s important to stay very still. You may be asked to briefly hold your breath. Most scans take 10 to 20 minutes.

If you’re given contrast dye through an IV, you might notice a warm feeling or a metallic taste, these are normal and go away quickly. If you drink oral contrast, it may slightly affect your bowel movements for a short time.

Important Notes About Contrast

  • Some people may have an allergic reaction to iodine-based contrast. Please tell us if you have a known allergy.

  • Mild symptoms include itching or sneezing; severe reactions are rare but treated immediately.

  • Patients with iodine allergies will need medication before the scan.

Benefits/Risks

Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic imaging test used to create detailed images of internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels. The cross-sectional images generated during a CT scan can be reformatted in multiple planes, and can even generate three-dimensional images which can be viewed on a computer monitor, transferred to electronic media. CT scanning is often the best method for detecting many different cancers since the images allow your doctor to confirm the presence of a tumor and determine its size and location. CT is fast, painless, noninvasive and accurate. In emergency cases, it can reveal internal injuries and bleeding quickly enough to help save lives.

For benefits and risks of a specific CT procedure, and more, please visit Computed Tomography (CT or CAT scan) Procedures.