CT Scan / Multi-Slice
Patient information: For instructions and forms, please select your test from the navigation menu on the left.
CT scans are primarily used in evaluating the internal organs of the body. It is
also useful for detecting broken bones or looking at the brain and major blood
vessels of the brain and body. PMI has received American College of Radiology (ACR) accreditation for CT.
PMI's newest CT scanner, the Toshiba Aquilion CFX 64 slice multi-detector, scans
more quickly than previous scanners by taking multiple pictures (slices) through
the body simultaneously. This greatly decreases the length of the procedure time
so patients finish faster. This scanner also requires 50% less radiation and
uses less intravenous contrast. The advanced technology also allows imaging of blood vessels
and bones in ways not previously possible without more invasive methods or
surgery. In many cases, patients are spared having a more invasive procedure, or
can have fewer such procedures, based on the findings from a multi-slice CT
examination. Also, the CT scan provides more accurate data about normal anatomy
and disease processes within the body, which gives the provider the necessary
information for the most effective course of treatment.
a.) Abdomen / Pelvis
Pre-Exam Instructions
- DO NOT eat or drink anything for 4 hours before your examination, with the exception of the contrast.
- Please alert the staff if you have ever had IV contrast reactions.
- You will be given 2 bottles of contrast material to drink. Drink one bottle of contrast material around bedtime (9:30 to 10:30 p.m.) the night before your examination.
- Drink 1/2 of the second bottle of contrast 1 hour before your scheduled examination.
- Bring the other 1/2 bottle of contrast with you to your examination.
- You may take your normal medications with minimal water the morning of the
examination.
- You can expect a pre-scan review of your medical history, previous testing and insurance information.
Required Forms
Time
b.) Head / Chest or Extremities
Pre-Exam Instructions
- Please alert the staff if you have ever had I.V. contrast reactions.
- Moderate amounts of fluid are acceptable.
- You may take normal medications with minimal water.
- You can expect a pre-scan review of your medical history, previous testing and insurance information.
Required Forms
Time