CT Scan
Our state-of-the-art, high resolution, low dose CT scanners include advanced dose reduction technology that adjusts to each patient’s size, weight, and anatomy. Radiation dose is managed conscientiously, based on the Image Wisely principles formulated by four respected medical societies. The result is outstanding diagnostic quality with exposure reduced up to 80 percent.
What is a CT Scan?
Computed Tomography (CT) uses computer processed X-rays to create detailed picture of cross-sections (or “slices”) of the body to determine the location, nature and extent of many diseases or abnormalities. At Princeton Radiology we have 16-, 64- and 128-slice scanners—a comprehensive equipment selection to meet the needs of any clinical scenario where CT is the appropriate diagnostic option. The range of diagnostic applications of CT is immense, from detecting tiny nodules that may indicate early signs of cancer, to identifying inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, and more.
Your doctor may recommend a CT scan when a more detailed, cross-sectional view of the body is needed than an X-ray can provide. It’s especially useful for visualizing bone injuries, as it can show complex fractures in meticulous detail. A CT scan is also crucial for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of conditions involving internal organs, such as appendicitis, kidney stones, or certain types of cancer. In emergency situations, a CT scan of the head is often used to quickly detect internal bleeding or other injuries after trauma. It can also be a key tool for evaluating blood vessels and diagnosing conditions like aneurysms or pulmonary embolisms. For certain diagnoses, a CT scan with contrast is used to highlight specific organs, tissues, or blood vessels to get a clearer picture of their condition. Ultimately, a CT scan is recommended when a highly detailed, 3D image of a specific part of the body is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
- If your CT exam is ordered with oral or IV contrast, you may consume CLEAR liquids ONLY within 4 hours of your examination. You may have coffee/ tea WITHOUT milk, jello, broth, soda, and grape cranberry or apple juice.
- If you are having an abdominal and/or pelvic CT, you may require oral contrast. You will need to pick up the contrast at our office at least 24 hours prior to your appointment and follow the instructions given for taking the contrast. Your Scheduler will inform you if you need oral contrast for your study.
- Remember to bring your prescription and your insurance card to your appointment.
- Arrive at our office 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. These 30 minutes will allow you to complete a medical history form and to finish drinking the oral contrast – if applicable – before your study begins.
Prescription medications may be taken as normally prescribed. Patients with diabetes or kidney disease: Blood work may be required prior to your CT exam to evaluate kidney function. Based on your results, you may be instructed to continue your medications as usual or to temporarily withhold certain medications, including those containing Metformin. Our staff will provide specific instructions if any medication adjustments are needed.
You will lie comfortably on the CT exam table. The table will move slowly into the CT scanner. The X-ray tube will move around as it captures images. Depending on the exam, a contrast material may be used to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. The contrast material may be injected directly into the bloodstream and/or swallowed. The contrast material will be naturally eliminated within a few hours to a day or two depending on the area examined and the type of contrast material used. A CT scan usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
This exam is available at the following locations:
Over 60 years of excellence in imaging.
And that’s just one reason why Princeton Radiology is the right choice.
Interpretations by board certified, sub-specialty trained radiologists.
Fast scheduling, less time in the waiting room, and same-day or next-day results in most cases.
We cater to patient schedules with daytime, evening and weekend hours for many exams.
From our friendly and caring staff to our beautiful imaging facilities, everything we do is patient-focused.
