Seeing Inside the Body

CT (computerized tomography) is a fast and painless process to look within the body to see the structure of bones, and soft tissue. For many physicians, this is the procedure of choice to see detailed images of the brain or other major organs of the body. It is also used in conjunction with a Myelogram for added spinal diagnosis.

The CT Scan can help diagnose abnormalities in just about any body organ. This is helpful in identifying conditions such as blood clots, internal bleeding, skull fractures, inflamed sinuses, appendicitis or problems with the back, bones, lungs or colon.

At the Bethesda North Hospital and Bethesda Medical Center at Arrow Springs, Radiologists and Technologists perform CT Scans and Myelograms (special views of the spinal canal) to provide the best imaging possible to help people heal with greater comfort, fewer complications, less risk and better results. A physician's referral is required. Please call 569-6777 to schedule your scan.

CT scans are performed at the Bethesda North Hospital, located at 10500 Montgomery Road in Cincinnati, and at the Bethesda Medical Center at Arrow Springs, located in Labanon , Ohio. CT scans require a prescription from your doctor, and non emergent, outpatient CT scans can be scheduled at either facility by calling central scheduling. The phone number for central scheduling is 569-6777. Outpatient CT scans are performed 24hrs a day, seven days a week at Bethesda North Hospital.  Outpatient CT scans are performed at the Arrow Springs facility from 7am to 7:30 pm Monday through Friday, and 7am to 3pm Saturday and Sunday.  Urgent/Emergency CT scans are performed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at both Bethesda North Hospital and the Arrow Springs Medical Center.

CT PROCEDURES AVAILABLE AT BETHESDA NORTH HOSPITAL INCLUDE:

• CT for Calcium Scoring
• CT of the Coronary Arteries
• CT of the Head and Neck
• CT of the Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis
• CT of the Spine and Extremities
• CT myelograms
• CT guided biopsies and drainage procedures
• CT Angiography

CT PROCEDURES AVAILABLE AT BETHESDA MEDICAL CENTER AT ARROW SPRINGS INCLUDE:

• CT of the Head and Neck
• CT of the Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis
• CT of the Spine and Extremities
• CT  Angiography

About the Procedure

CT, or computerized tomography, is actually an x-ray procedure that uses a computer to enhance the images. In a traditional x-ray, dense tissue can block other areas. In a CT scan, several cross-sections are put together by the computer to generate a two-dimensional cross-section, or "slice" of the body, which clearly shows soft tissue and bone.

Preparation

If you are having an abdominal or pelvic scan, you may be asked to:

• Not eat or drink three hours before the scan.
• Drink an oral contrast two hours before your scan. This will highlight the stomach wall and large and small intestines, providing better detail.
• If any medications are needed, take them with a small amount of water or food.

For other scans, preparation may or may not be necessary. Check with the Hospital or Imaging Center for specific instructions related to your exam.

During the Procedure

The CT scan can take several minutes, depending on the scan type. Expect the process to take 15 to 45 minutes, including preparation time.

You will be asked to lie on a padded table that slides into the large donut-like opening of the CT scanner. The part of your body being scanned will be in the center of the opening. The technologist will be able to see and hear you at all times during the scanning.

Depending on the type of CT scan, an IV contrast may be administered. This contrast will make blood vessels, organs, and any abnormalities show more clearly. After the contrast is injected you may feel a warm sensation throughout your body. This is normal and passes in about a minute.

After the Procedure

If given IV contrast, drink extra fluids (water, fruit juice, or decaffeinated beverages) to help flush the contrast from your system. You may resume normal activities.

Follow-up

A board certified Radiologist will interpret the scan and relate its information to the referring physician, who will in turn inform you of the results. All written reports will be available to the referring physician within 24 hours. Anything needing immediate attention will be called to the referring physician the day of the exam.