We understand that though we work with imaging procedures and equipment every day, for a patient, what we do is often unfamiliar and can cause some anxiety. The following information is designed to help you better understand the type of imaging procedure you are having done and to prepare you for the procedure. Please take a few moments to review this information. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to talk with our technicians.

CT scans, or computed tomography, use x-rays, specialized scanning equipment, and a computer to visualize images that detail specific areas of your body. These images can then be studied in sequence to produce a three dimensional view of the body that can be used to diagnose problems more accurately.

The CT scanner features a large ring that has an x-ray tube on one side of the ring and a receptor mounted on the other side of the ring directly across from the x-ray tube. During the CT scan, the ring encircles you and rotates around you. When the CT scanner rotates, the tube sends x-rays out and the receptor on the opposite side measures the amount of x-rays that are absorbed during each rotation.

This information is then transferred to the computer where the digital images are visualized. The image created can be viewed on a video screen during the exam and can be converted into photographs to be studied by your doctor and radiologist at a later time.

You should tell your doctor and the technician if:

• You are or think you may be pregnant or if you are breast feeding.
• If you have had any reaction to iodine, contrast media, or shellfish.

The CT scan you are having may require using a contrast media, which is a substance given intravenously or orally to highlight certain internal areas of your body. If you receive an intravenous contrast agent, you may feel warm and you may experience a metallic taste in your mouth. It is very important to tell your doctor or the technician if you have ever had an adverse reaction to a contrast agent. Tell the technologist performing the test immediately if you begin to itch, feel short of breath, or experience discomfort.

You should also tell your doctor:

• If you are breastfeeding or if you think you are or might be pregnant.
• If you have been diagnosed with anemia or other disease that affects the red blood cells.
• If you have asthma or any other allergic respiratory disease.
• If you have any questions as to whether or not you should receive a contrast agent.

You will lie on the CT table during the CT scan. When you are ready, the table will slide into the ring and the ring will continue passing over you. The technician will perform the test from an adjacent room. You will be able to speak with the technician at all times. Remain relaxed and be as still as possible. The technician may ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds as the images are made. Try to be consistent in the amount of air you breathe in each time. During the test, you will hear the sounds of gears and motors working within the scanner. These are normal. You should expect the exam to last from 30 minutes to an hour.

Please remember to bring the prescription you received from your doctor, as well as your insurance information (including any pre-authorizations you may have received). The Orthopedic Hospital of Oklahoma participates in most major insurance plans. We will be pleased to bill your insurance company for you upon request.

Your physician or a member of our medical staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have concerning your test. Please notify us 24 hours in advance, when possible, if you are not able to keep an appointment.