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(400
LB weight capacity)
The CT Scan is a primary tool for diagnostic medicine.
Popularly called "Cat Scan," it employs radiology
and is a technical application that is constantly advancing
with computer technology. The basic CT Scan incorporates
uniquely designed x-ray equipment. It allows rotation of 360
degrees of exposure around the human body.
This
scanning method provides the physician with a two-dimensional
"slice" of a designated target area in the patient's
body as positioned on the examining table. Details and structure
of the interior of the body can be mathematically reconstructed
from the projections obtained from various angles. In the
computerized tomography he views are taken in a single plain,
data is computed and displayed as a cross-sectioned image.
These
images from the x-ray exposures are then recorded and stored
in the computer. Data may then be reconstructed and the brightness
of each portion of the cross-section is determined by x-ray
absorption. The images taken may be displayed, recorded on
film or stored for later review.
Basic
CT Scan shows the area covered on a single frame. If
more area needs examination the patient and the table are
moved accordingly. This process is called "incremental"
scanning and it limits the frames to specific sections as
chosen. It is generally time consuming due to the multiple
adjustments that are needed with both patient and equipment.
Exam
Preps
- Patients
should continue any prescription medications unless informed
otherwise by their physicians.
- Diabetic
patients will discontinue Glucophage for 48 hours after
this exam with physician approval.
- Diabetic
patients should maintain diet as prescribed by their physician.
- Do
not eat/drink anything three hours prior to drinking Readi-Cat
barium.
*** If instructions are not followed closely, exam may need
to be rescheduled***
SHAKE
WELL BEFORE USING
- Drink
one container of Readi-Cat barium two hours before your
appointment time.
Drink entire container within a thirty-minute time period.
- Drink
second container of Readi-Cat barium one hour before your
appointment time. Drink entire container within a thirty-minute
time period. (For example, if your appointment is at 10:00
a.m., drink 1st bottle at 8:00 a.m. and 2nd bottle at 9:00
a.m.) You should have consumed all Readi-Cat barium by thirty
minutes prior to your examination.
- Arrive
at the facility thirty minutes prior to your appointment
time.
- If
you have questions regarding this prep, please
call (210) 617-9000 between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
For
AM Exam
- Nothing
to eat or drink after midnight.
For
PM Exam
- Clear
liquids for breakfast (nothing to eat or drink after).
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