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CT (Computerized Tomography)
A CT scan is a medical imaging exam that produces cross-sectional images.
It is a special type of x-ray that produces three-dimensional images of
the body and can distinguish bone, tissue, fat, gas and fluid. It can
often replace other diagnostic techniques such as exploratory surgery and
other invasive procedures. This procedure is commonly used to detect or
rule out tumors, blood clots, enlarged ventricles, enlarged lymph nodes,
pancreatic disease, back problems, lung cancer and many other disorders.
The purpose of a CT scan is to:
- Provide detailed images for detecting disease.
- Useful in monitoring your progress during or
after treatment.
- Determine if a growth is solid or fluid-filled,
and if an organ's size and shape are normal.
A technologist will position you on the examination
table. You will then be moved into the doughnut-shaped scanner. As the
equipment scans you will hear the whirring sound of the machinery.
After the exam the radiologist will provide your
physician with an interpretation of the results of your CT scan. Your
physician can then make a diagnosis and explain the findings.
Patient Preparation
Sometimes a liquid called contrast medium is necessary to highlight
certain structures. This is given to you either in the form of a drink,
through an IV or both. If contrast is needed for your exam, you will be
asked to avoid foods and fluids for up to four hours prior to your scan.
Be sure to tell your physician if you have any allergies, especially to
iodine. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended. You may even be asked
to change into a gown. Jewelry, hairpins, and eyeglasses must be removed
if you are having a scan of your head.
Specific Exam Preparation
Oral contrast is given for the following exams. It is a barium sulfate
drink called Readi-cat. Please refrigerate and shake well before using.
CT Scan of abdomen:
- Do not eat or drink four hours prior to your
exam.
- Drink one bottle of Readi-cat two hours prior to
your exam.
- When you arrive in the CT department, you will
receive an additional cup of Readi-cat to drink.
CT Scan of abdomen and pelvis:
- Do not eat or drink four hours prior to your
exam.
- Drink one bottle of Readi-cat three hours prior
to your exam.
- Drink the second bottle an hour and a half later.
- When you arrive in the CT department, you will
receive an additional cup of Readi-cat to drink
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FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS |
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Featuring Gene Phillips, M.D.
Interventional Radiologist with Charleston Radiologists, PA
Medical Director, InvisiVein
Q. What are varicose veins?
A. Varicose veins are abnormal bulging veins below the skin surface that are unsightly and often painful. They frequently cause swelling and discomfort in the legs, especially during periods of prolonged standing. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to permanent skin changes and sometimes ulceration.
Q. Are varicose veins only a cosmetic concern?
A. The appearance of varicose veins and spider veins (these are the smaller and more common variation of varicose veins) is the concern. However, varicose veins cause aching pain and discomfort. This condition may lead to serious problems if not treated.
Q. What new non-invasive techniques are available to treat varicose veins?
A. Surgery was the traditional treatment for varicose veins, but it’s invasive, moderately painful and has a slightly longer recovery period. Surgery requires the use of anesthesia, leaves a scar and a few incisions.
One of the newest non-invasive techniques in varicose vein removal is endovenous laser treatment (EVLT). The EVLT procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, requires no incisions, and usually lasts less than an hour. An interventional radiologist, a doctor specially trained in performing minimally invasive treatments using imaging guidance, can perform EVLT.
Q. How does the EVLT procedure work?
A. With EVLT, laser energy minimizes the vein walls, shrinking them and closing the faulty vein so that the blood cannot flow through it. This eliminates the bulging of the vein at its source. After the treatment, the blood in the faulty veins will be diverted to the many normal veins in the leg.
The procedure leaves no visible scarring. There is minimal postoperative pain, and a quick recovery period gains immediate relief from symptoms. It is well documented that EVLT has a 98% initial success rate with excellent long-term results.
For more information on EVLT and varicose vein removal, visit InvisVein. |
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