CT
Computer Tomography (CT) uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image date of the body. A computer processes the information to show a cross-section of soft tissue structures of the body: organs, muscles and blood vessels. The innovative design of LRI’s 64-Slice CT provides optimal patient comfort while providing outstanding diagnostic information. Features of the scanner include; true-to-detail three dimensional image of the inside of the heart and other parts of the body; lower and isolated radiation doses; accurate diagnoses of head, spine, organ and tissue disorders; and the ability to accommodate patients up to 440 lbs.
Preparation
The certified LRI technologist will explain and perform your CT scan. The technologist will operate the CT scanner from a separate control room but remain in contact with you using a two-way intercom while watching you through an observation window. You will lay on a table connected to the CT scanner. The part of your body being scanned will be positioned in the middle of the large, doughnut-shaped scanner.
Exams
During the CT scan, a beam of x-rays circles around the body collecting a 360-degree view of the area being examined. This information is fed into a computer system that produces a two and three dimensional cross sectional "slice" of a portion of the body.
Some CT scans require the use of an iodine contrast material. This material is used to highlight certain body tissues and structures. Patients over 50 years of age or with a history of kidney disease may need BUN and Creatinine labs drawn. LRI is able to draw and process these labs within five minutes.
CT Services and Preparations
- CT Abdomen
- Nothing by mouth 2 hrs prior to exam. Drink 1 bottle Readi-Cat, 1 hour prior to exam. Keep refrigerated.
- CT Abdomen/Pelvis
- Nothing by mouth 2 hrs prior to exam. You will receive 2 bottles of Readi-Cat. Keep refrigerated. Drink 1/2 bottle Readi-Cat the night before exam. Drink 1 bottle Readi-Cat 1 hour prior to exam. Bring remaining Readi-Cat to exam.
- CT Pelvis
- Same procedure as CT Abdomen/Pelvis with contrast.
- CT Head/Brain
- CT Soft Tissue Neck
- CT Chest
- CT Angiogram
- Coronary CTA
Coronary CTA uses a 64-Slice CT to create 3D images of the heart. The five minute non-invasive test is used to determine whether fatty deposits or calcium deposits have built up in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. If left untreated, these areas of build-up, called plaques, can cause heart muscle disease. Heart muscle disease, in turn, can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain and even a heart attack.
Insurance covers indications such as chest pain or shortness of breath. Coronary CTA for screening purposes is not covered by insurance but can be submitted as reimbursement under Health Savings accounts or Flex plans. LRI is offering the Coronary CTA and coronary calcium screening exam for $495 due at the time of the exam.
Coronary CTA vs. Cardiac Catherization (Angiogram)
Results
The LRI board certified radiologist will study the images and provide a written report which includes a description of the findings. Our reports are available to your physicians within 24 hours of the completion of the exam. The report could take longer if we are waiting for studies from an outside facility for comparison. If the results are urgent your physician may acquire a preliminary report by phone, fax or via the internet.
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