OSF St. Mary Medical Center
Computed Tomography scans (also known as CT or CAT scans) are specialized x-ray exams done on a CT scanner. CT scans are even more specialized CT scans that are done to image the vessels of different parts of the body. CT scans can detect small changes in body tissue deep inside a patient's body. CT scans can be done on just about any part of the body.
You will lie down on a thin padded table. The technologist will make certain you are comfortable, because it is important to hold real still during the scan. The scan can take as few as a couple of minutes, or as long as a half an hour. Most are between 5-15 minutes. You may or may not have intravenous contrast given during the procedure. If you need intravenous contrast, you will have a small needle/catheter put into a vein in your arm or hand.
You will need to bring your medication list with you to your appointment. This list will need to be reviewed, especially if you have to have IV contrast.
The CT scanner is located in the main hospital department at OSF St. Mary Medical Center.