Current research with the diagnostic Centre suggests that a lot of things need to be put in place before the CT scan is taken. 

 

CT stands for Computer Tomography (scan). It is a type of scan that uses x-ray to obtain detailed pictures of your body in “slice sections”, cross selection. These pictures are examined by a radiologist and will help diagnose if there any problems. The CT scanner is an open ring-like structure which resembles a giant doughnut. It is not tunnel.

 

Yes, but for reasons of safety they will not be able to accompany you into the CT scan room, except in very special circumstances.

 

You may be asked to wear a hospital gown. If you wish to wear loose fitting clothing which does not have metal zips, buttons or bra clips it may be possible to perform the scan without you having to change your clothes.

 

A CT contrast agent is used to enhance the images produced by CT scans. Contrast agents are also called “contrast mediums” and “dyes”. There are different types of contrast agent that can be used. Some are given by injection into a vein (intravenously), others are swallowed.

 

The two main forms of CT contrast agent we use are:

Intravenous CT contrast agent is given by an injection through a fine plastic tube called a “cannula”. The cannula is normally placed in your or arm, using a small needle. The contrast is then pushed through the cannula.

 

The contrast agent is clear and contains iodine. The contrast agent flows to the heart and passes through the body’s bloodstream, then back to the heart. It is removed from the blood by the kidneys and liver.

What are the risks of IV CT scan contrast agent?

Most people experience no serious unwanted effects from IV CT contrast agent. 

 

Gastrografin cannot be given to people with hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid). If you have heart disease. There is an increase risk of serious hypersensitivity reactions. The radiographer will ask you some questions to check that it is safe for you to have oral CT contrast agent. It is very important to tell them about any health problems or allergies you have.

 

Reactions to oral contrast agent can commonly cause symptoms such as constipation, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea. Rarely, Gastrografin may cause itchy skin, hives (lumps on the skin), difficulty breathing, sneezing, and swelling of the face. In extremely rare cases, these reactions can be life-threatening.

You can reduce the risk of unwanted effects by drinking plenty fluids before and after your scan. 

 

If you have Diabetes or are allergic to iodine please inform the Diagnostic Centre when you book the procedure.

If you are having contrast, on the day of your scan, it is best not to eat until your scan is finished. It is advised that you do not eat for at least four hours before your procedure. Diabetic patients, however, should eat as normal. It is important to be well-hydrated before your scan. All patients can drink as normal. 

 

You will either need to have a full or an empty bladder for your scan. They will tell you what to do when you arrive. Water is available in the waiting room.

If you are having contrast, you may eat or drink as normal before the procedure.

 

In the scan the radiographer will explain the procedure and what to expect. You may ask any questions you might have. You will be asked to lie on your back or on your front on the scanning table. You will be asked to lie still as any movement will spoil the scan. 

When you are comfortable the CT table moves you very slowly towards the hole in the centre of the “doughnut” shaped scanner.

 

It is common to feel hot and “flushed” and to experience a, metallic taste when the contrast agent is first given. This normally goes away after about a minute.

 

Some people are allergic to the iodine (or other ingredients) in the contrast agent. Allergic can cause itchy skin, hives (swollen lumps on the skin), and may also other parts of the body. In exceptional cases, these reactions can be life-threatening.

 

If you are allergic to iodine, has had an allergic reaction to contrast agent before or have other allergies, you must tell the person who is doing your scan. Medicines and equipments to deal with allergic reactions are kept close to 

 

where you will have your scan.

Rarely, the contrast agent may cause some kidney damage in people who already have kidney problems. You must tell the 

radiographer if you have any kidney problems.

 

Other health problems (such as asthma) can increase the risk or having a reaction to the contrast agent or difficulties removing the iodine from your body. The radiographer will ask you a number of questions to check that it is safe for you to have a contrast agent.

 

You may have some bruising from the needle. You can reduce the risk of brushing by applying pressure to the injection site for ten minutes after the cannula has been removed.

 

Oral CT Contrast Agent is normally used to give clear images of the abdomen and the pelvis. The oral CT contrast agent we normally use is called Gastrografin

 

20ml of Gastrografin is mixed with water to make a one litre solution for you to drink. It is flavoured, but can taste bitter. This may be given to you to take home or at the clinic. You will be given clear instructions by the radiographer.

 

Most people experience no serious unwanted effects from Gastrografin. However, some patients may experience constipation and nausea after taking Gastrografin. 

 

Your Health Is Our Concern!

 

Mawuena Workartey/ Ghanahospitals.org