Work time
Diagnostics: Mon - Sun, 6:00 - 23:00
Polyclinic: Mon - Sun, 8:00 - 20:00
Find out everything you need to know about the capabilities of the CT scanner at «HBMedical», as well as the preparation and features of the examination
Equipment capabilities
At the HBMedical clinic, all CT examinations (including those with contrast) are performed on an expert-class 2021 Siemens Somatom go.Up computer tomograph (Germany) with the following parameters:
- The number of slices is 64
- The weight limit for patients is 150-200 kg.
It is important that for patients who have difficulties with movement due to injuries or damage, as well as for patients with special needs – HBMedical provides the possibility of transfer in a specially equipped medical vehicle
Preparation for examination
In most cases, the computer tomography procedure at HBMedical does not require any prior preparation. With the exception of some specific examinations (for example, CT colonoscopy)
We recommend only:
- take with you the results of previous studies and a doctor’s prescription (if any)
- come to the medical center early (10-15 minutes)
At the reception, before the examination, the administrator will ask you to fill out a questionnaire required by the doctor to make sure that there are no contraindications listed below:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding period
- Acute renal failure
- Frequent repeatability of the examination
Preparing the patient for CT with contrast
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) is an important imaging technique that allows for a more detailed assessment of the condition of organs and blood vessels. The contrast agent is administered intravenously, so certain preparation rules must be followed before the examination.
1. General recommendations
• The patient should inform the doctor or laboratory technician about any allergies, especially to iodine-containing drugs, as well as kidney, liver or heart diseases.
• Be sure to inform the doctor about the presence of diabetes mellitus, taking metformin (or drugs containing it), as temporary discontinuation of the drug may be necessary.
• Report possible pregnancy or breastfeeding.
2. Diet and drinking regimen
• Refrain from eating 4–6 hours before the examination. A small amount of water is allowed.
• The day before the CT scan, it is recommended to increase fluid intake (in the absence of contraindications) to improve the excretion of contrast after the examination.
3. Clothing and personal belongings
• Before the examination, remove all metal objects: jewelry, glasses, belts, removable dentures, etc.
• Clothing should be comfortable, without metal elements.
4. During the CT scan
• The patient is placed on an intravenous catheter to administer contrast.
• A short-term feeling of warmth, a metallic taste in the mouth, or an urge to urinate may occur – this is a normal reaction.
• During the scan, you must remain still and follow the instructions of the medical staff.
5. After the examination
• It is recommended to drink 1.5–2 liters of water during the day after the examination to help the contrast agent get out faster.
• If you experience itching, rash, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling, immediately notify your doctor.
How is the procedure performed?
Before scanning on the tomograph, our specialists will invite you to a special “procedural” room, where we will ask you to temporarily remove any metal objects located directly in the examination area (jewelry, bracelets, rings, earrings, bracelet, etc.).
After that:
- First, you will need to relax and lie down on the scanner’s soft table.
- Secondly, during the examination, the tomograph table will move barely audibly in the horizontal plane.
- For the most accurate result – the patient must be motionless and follow the voice prompts of our specialists (breathe in, breathe out, close your eyes, etc.)
We also note that the process of conducting any CT examination means that only you will be in the procedure room. However, do not worry in any case, because our specialists will closely monitor you from the beginning to the very end of the procedure through a special window.
After the scanning procedure is completed:
- The radiologist will draw up the conclusion, and it will be handed over to you soon, together with the DVD
- it is also possible to order a printout of the results of your CT scan on film.
- You can sign up for a free consultation with a therapist
We emphasize that the dose of X-ray radiation received during computer tomography is strictly taken into account and is within the permissible radiation load and, accordingly, cannot harm your health.
In the event of contrast agent administration, we recommend drinking plenty of fluids (water, grape juice, milk, red wine), as well as eating beets, honey, and nuts.
If you follow the recommendations for food and increase the water balance of your body, as a rule, 90% of the contrast agent will leave the body already on the first day, and the remaining 10% – during the second.
CT Diagnostics: What the Examination Shows and How to Prepare Properly
Computed tomography (CT) — is a modern diagnostic method that allows doctors to obtain detailed cross-sectional images of internal organs, blood vessels, bones, and body tissues. CT is widely used for the fast and accurate detection of many diseases, injuries, and pathological changes.
Unlike a standard X-ray, computed tomography creates a series of images that form a three-dimensional image of the examined area. This helps the doctor detect even small changes that may not be visible with other examination methods.
In this article, we will explain what CT is, when computed tomography is prescribed, how the procedure is performed, and how to prepare for it properly.
What Is Computed Tomography?
Computed tomography — is a diagnostic method that uses X-ray radiation and computer data processing to create detailed images of organs and tissues.
During CT, the scanner takes a large number of images from different angles, after which the computer creates cross-sectional and three-dimensional images.
CT allows doctors to assess:
- bone structures;
- internal organs;
- blood vessels;
- lungs;
- the brain;
- the abdominal cavity;
- joints and the spine.
What Does CT Show?
Computed tomography is used to diagnose a large number of diseases.
Helps detect:
- consequences of injuries;
- hemorrhages;
- stroke;
- tumors;
- vascular pathologies.
CT scan of the lungs and chest
The examination allows doctors to assess the condition of the lungs, bronchi, pleura, and chest organs.
CT scan of the abdominal cavity
It is used to diagnose diseases of the liver, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, and other organs.
CT scan of the spine and joints
Helps assess the condition of bones, joints, intervertebral structures, and the consequences of injuries.
When Is CT Prescribed?
A doctor may recommend computed tomography in cases of:
- injuries;
- pain of unclear origin;
- suspected tumors;
- inflammatory processes;
- vascular pathologies;
- headache;
- breathing disorders;
- suspected internal bleeding;
- the need to clarify a diagnosis.
CT With Contrast and Without Contrast
Computed tomography can be performed with or without contrast enhancement.
CT Without Contrast
Used to assess bone structures, lungs, injuries, and many standard examinations.
CT With Contrast
During the examination, a special contrast agent is administered to help better visualize blood vessels, organs, and pathological changes.
Contrast is especially often used for:
- detecting tumors;
- assessing blood vessels;
- examining the abdominal cavity;
- clarifying the results of other examinations.
How Is CT Performed?
During the examination, the patient lies on a special table that moves through the scanner.
The procedure is fast and painless.
During CT, it is important to:
- remain still;
- follow the doctor’s instructions;
- hold your breath if necessary.
The duration of computed tomography is usually from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of examination.
How to Prepare for CT
Preparation for CT depends on the area being examined and whether contrast enhancement is needed.
Preparation for CT Without Contrast
In most cases, no special preparation is required.
Before the procedure, it is recommended to:
- remove metal jewelry;
- bring the results of previous examinations;
- inform the doctor about chronic diseases.
Preparation for CT With Contrast
Before a contrast-enhanced examination, the doctor may recommend:
- not eating for 4–6 hours before the procedure;
- taking a creatinine blood test;
- informing the doctor about allergies or kidney problems.
Preparation for Abdominal CT
For some abdominal examinations, a special diet or oral contrast fluid may be required.
The doctor provides exact recommendations before the procedure.
Is CT Harmful?
Computed tomography uses X-ray radiation, but modern scanners make it possible to minimize radiation exposure.
CT is performed only when prescribed by a doctor, when the benefits of accurate diagnostics outweigh the possible risks.
Contraindications to CT
The main limitations may include:
- pregnancy;
- allergy to the contrast agent;
- severe kidney failure;
- certain forms of diabetes mellitus;
- inability to remain still.
Before the procedure, the doctor always checks for all possible contraindications.
CT or MRI — What Is the Difference?
CT is better suited for:
- bones;
- injuries;
- lungs;
- rapid diagnosis of emergency conditions.
MRI is more often used to assess:
- soft tissues;
- the brain;
- joints;
- ligaments and nerve structures.
The examination method is selected individually depending on the clinical situation.
Why It Is Important Not to Delay CT
Timely computed tomography helps:
- detect pathologies at early stages;
- clarify the diagnosis;
- assess the consequences of injuries;
- monitor treatment effectiveness;
- reduce the risk of complications.
Conclusion
Computed tomography — is a modern, fast, and informative diagnostic method that helps assess the condition of internal organs, blood vessels, bones, and tissues.
Proper preparation for CT and timely examination help obtain the most accurate result and start treatment in time.
The method is widely used in modern medicine for early detection of many diseases and monitoring the patient’s condition.
Need specialist help?
Order a callback and our consultant will help you choose a doctor and make an appointment at a convenient time for you!