CT Scanning
What is CT Scan?
Computerized Axial Tomography (CT) scanning utilizes X-ray technology that has been manipulated by a computer processor to create images that show a cross section of body organs, tissues and bony detail.
What are the benefits of a CT scan?
CT imaging allows your physician to diagnose abnormalities such as tumors, fractures, infectious processes and vascular anomalies. Due to CT cutting edge technology, diagnosis can be made in a very timely manner and is often used for evaluation of traumatic injuries.
What should I expect during a CT scan?
CT imaging is essentially painless, although an IV injection may be required by your physician or at the request of the Radiologist. The intravenous contrast, or dye, allows for optimal visualization of the blood vessels and internal organs, thus assisting the Radiologist to better diagnose your condition.
If contrast or dye is required: an IV is placed in your arm by a technologist. You may experience a slight flushed feeling throughout your body; however, any symptoms that you may experience should pass within a few minutes.
During your test it is very important that you lie still and follow the breathing instructions given by the technologist in order to obtain the best possible images. Every attempt will be made to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout your procedure.
Additionally, some procedures may require that you drink oral contrast prior to the CT scan. At St. Elizabeth you have the option to either pick up your oral contrast at any of our locations including the Imaging Centers, so that you may begin your prep the night before, or you can prep the same day of your exam at your scheduled location. The oral contrast is utilized on Abdominal and Pelvic CT’s to highlight the stomach and small and large intestines.
Find a CT Scan Location Near You
Physician’s order required for services.
Quality
St. Elizabeth Healthcare Computed Axial Tomography (CT) is accredited at all locations by both The Joint Commission (TJC) and the American College of Radiology (ACR). Both are recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to meeting certain performance standards.
Safety
St. Elizabeth Healthcare has one of the highest levels of safety programs in the area. By following the ACR and TJC standards for safety at all facilities, technologists continue to update standards to ensure the highest possible patient safety and image quality.
Innovation
At St. Elizabeth Healthcare, we update our technology on a regular basis ensuring that our patients are scanned on state-of-the-art equipment. This equipment offers diagnostic quality while ensuring the lowest possible dose of radiation.
In 2013, St. Elizabeth invested $1 million for AIDR technology. AIDR is a software package that has been installed on our scanners, allowing us to cut our dose in half while maintaining quality. CT technology now enables us to scan various body parts in a matter of minutes. Although, there are more complex studies that can increase the scan time.
The St. Elizabeth fleet consists of:
To accommodate a diverse set of needs, the Florence and Ft. Thomas locations have an 80 cm bore with a table limit of 676 pounds and a ceiling mounted bariatric lift with the capability of 650 pounds. Additionally, the Edgewood and Hebron locations have an 80 cm bore and a table limit of 660 pounds. The larger opening also helps to accommodate claustrophobic patients.
Oral Contrast Pickup Times & Locations
Sat: 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sat: 7 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Sat: 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Patient Rights
American College of Radiology
You have the right to submit comments regarding this facility’s radiology imaging and treatment services.
Submit your comments in writing and send to the facility or to the following address:
American College of Radiology
Attn: Accreditation Program Patient Comments
1891 Preston White Dr.
Reston, VA 20191-4326
