Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

A CT scan uses a special type of X-ray device and a sophisticated computer system to generate detailed images of the body. CT scan technology provides images of much greater detail than X-rays. A CT scan also requires significantly more radiation than a regular X-ray. The CT exam is painless and is typically completed in less than 10 minutes.

Unlike magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a CT scan passes your body through a slim ring to quickly obtain the images. A radiologist uses the images to view the body at different angles and best display a particular organ or body area of interest.

At New England Baptist Hospital, we tailor CT scans to each individual patient. We use high-resolution techniques that give detailed images of bones, joints and soft tissues.

Image-Guided Procedures

Our interventional radiologists use imaging to guide certain procedures. We use CT guidance to diagnose or treat a condition. We offer:

• Collection aspiration and drainage (draining fluid from something like a cyst). 
• Iliopsoas bursa aspiration (draining fluid from the hip joint).
• Piriformis injection (pain relieving medication injected into a muscle in the buttocks).

You can have a CT scan on almost any part of your body. Our schedulers will explain any required steps before your exam.

Some CT exams require contrast material that makes it easier for our imaging specialists to see all the structures inside your body. In some cases, contrast material is given as an injection. For abdominal or pelvic exams, you’ll need to drink the contrast material so it shows up in your stomach and intestines.

After changing your clothes and receiving contrast material, if needed, you’ll lie down on a table that slides into the CT scanner. You’ll need to stay very still while the scanner rotates around you to take pictures. When your exam is over, the table will slide out of the scanner.

If you have a CT scan with contrast, we may monitor you for a short time to make sure you don’t experience any side effects. For some patients, this can include itching, swelling or a rash. Otherwise, CT scans usually don’t require any special care.

Please call 617-754-6000 to pre-register before arriving for your exam. If you’ve pre-registered, report directly to Converse 2 Radiology. Please arrive 30 minutes before your appointment time for all CT exams except abdominal/pelvic CT. For this type, you should arrive 2½ hours before your appointment time.

If you do not pre-register before arriving for your CT exam, add 30 more minutes to the arrival times listed above and report directly to Patient Access (in the main hospital hallway) to register for your visit.

Note: For abdominal/pelvic CT exams, you will be given about 24 to 48 ounces of contrast to drink over a 2½-hour period before your appointment time. Certain pelvic exams may not require you to drink the liquid. If your care team determines that you don’t need to drink barium, we will complete your exam as soon as possible after you arrive.

If you’ve had imaging performed at other facilities (CT, X-rays or MRI), please upload the digital files before coming in for your appointment. Use this secure portal to upload your images. Follow the on-screen instructions to create your account and upload your imaging exams.

We’ll then compare your prior images with the CT scan we’re performing. This comparison helps the radiologist with the interpretation of your exam.

You may eat or drink anything you like before your exam, because there aren’t any dietary restrictions, except for those receiving abdominal/pelvic CT scans. If you are having any abdominal/pelvic CT, please consume only a light meal (not a full breakfast, lunch or dinner) within two hours of your exam.

Some CT exams require an intravenous (IV) contrast agent in a vein in the arm. Using a contrast provides a clearer image. If your doctor has determined that the contrast will enhance your CT scan results, the technologist performing your exam will place an IV in your arm before your exam.

If you are over the age of 60 years or have one of the following health conditions, you may need a blood test within 30 days of your exam. This test ensures the contrast will be safe for you.

• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Lupus
• Multiple myeloma

Your care team will advise you if you need a blood test.

If you’re having a CT exam with contrast and you have previously had a reaction to contrast dye, please notify your care team immediately. Your doctor may be able to give you medicine before the test, or they may be able to complete the test without using contrast.

It is important for you to keep to your regular medication schedule. Please bring a list of all your current medications, including over-the-counter medicine, vitamins and supplements.

Note: If you are diabetic who takes Glucophage (Metformin) and will be having a CT with IV contrast, you will be instructed to stop taking your Glucophage (Metformin) for 48 hours after your CT exam. Be sure to check with your doctor before you start taking this medication again.

Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that does not contain any metal pieces. Otherwise, you need to change into a medical gown for your exam.

If you’re having a head/facial CT, you will need to remove:

• Dentures
• Earrings
• Glasses
• Hearing aids
• Necklaces or chains around your neck

Only the patient can be in the CT scan room. Patients under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (parent or legal guardian).

If you have a child, please make childcare arrangements for the time of your appointment. If you need to bring your child, another adult must accompany you. They’ll stay with your child in the waiting room while you have your scan.

After your CT, you can resume your normal activities. If you received IV contrast, barium or a combination of both, please increase your normal fluid intake for 24 hours following your exam, unless your physician objects.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your CT, please call 617-754-5308 to speak with a CT technologist.