CT FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about having a CT scan. If you have additional questions about the procedure, please contact us.

Why did my physician order a CT exam for me?
CT is one of the most versatile diagnostic tools and is used to identify a variety of injuries, illnesses and diseases. For example, kidney stones can be readily seen with the scanner. Your doctor can explain why your CT exam was ordered.

Will I experience any pain?
No, not at all. CT is a painless test to enable physicians to view the internal organs and anatomy. However, some CT exams require patients to remain still during the scanning procedure, which for some may be uncomfortable. Also, patients may experience pain when starting an IV, which is often unnecessary.

What preparation is required before the exam?
A renal colic CT scan performed for the evaluation of kidney stones requires no special preparation. Patients undergoing an abdominal or pelvic scan are asked to drink an oral contrast, which makes certain internal structures easier to see during the exam. For other exams, the contrast is injected instead of swallowed. Many exams do not require contrast at all. If there is a possibility you are pregnant, please let your clinician know.

Are there any side effects or risks?
The benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk. While CT does expose patients to radiation, it is equivalent to the amount of natural radiation we receive annually. Patients rarely have serious allergic reactions to the contrast medium, but nursing mothers should wait 24 hours before breast-feeding. If there is any chance you are pregnant, let your clinician know.

Will I need additional tests?
While the answer will depend on the reason your doctor ordered your CT exam, we frequently perform multiple tests on patients to provide the physician with enough information to make an accurate diagnosis.