Providing Convenient CT Scan Services in Raleigh, North Carolina
Computerized axial tomography, also known as a CT scan, is an X-ray procedure that produces a three-dimensional scan of the body. CT scan technology is typically used as a guide for surgeons to use during complicated surgical procedures. A CT scan can also pinpoint the location of a particular disease and determine areas of internal damage.
At Raleigh Neurological Clinic, we provide the highest quality CT scan services in Raleigh, North Carolina.
What Can Be Diagnosed by a CT Scan?
CT scans are performed for a variety of reasons but are especially beneficial for people who have internal injuries from auto accidents or other traumatic events. They can visualize any part of the body and diagnose injuries and disease while assisting physicians in planning medical, surgical, or radiation treatments. CT Scan services at Raleigh Neurological Clinic can:
- Reveal internal injuries
- Discover and monitor heart disease, cancer, liver masses, and lung nodules
- Guide biopsies, radiation, and surgery
- Monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments
- Determine the area of a blood clot, infection, or tumor
What Can I Expect During a CT Scan?
Once you change into a hospital gown and remove any clothing or jewelry that could interfere with the procedure, a CT scan technician will properly position you on an exam table that has a cradle for your head and straps to hold you in place. Although some patients may be asked to lie on their side or stomach, patients are generally directed to lie on their back. The position you will be in during the CT scan depends on the part of your body being scanned.
Throughout the exam, the CT scan technician will be in an adjoining room and communicate with you via intercom. When the scan begins, you’ll notice the exam table slide back and forth through the large hole in the center of the machine while the scanner rotates around you.
The table will move quickly through the scanner for your initial scan, and then slower for the remaining scans. While you will need to lie still during the entire scan and may experience some discomfort, CT scans are generally painless. Though the scanning portion will only take 15 to 30 minutes, the full exam will probably last an hour.
What Can I Expect After a CT Scan?
After your CT scan, your set of images will be sent to our radiologists for review and interpretation. The radiologists at our clinic will develop a report of their findings, and will send them to the physician who referred you for your CT scan.
In most instances, a CT scan does not trigger any reactions or complications. You will be free to return to your everyday activities. You should contact your referring physician immediately if you experience any abnormal pain or challenges of any kind.