- CAT scans are performed with specialized equipment that is typically located in a hospital or dedicated facility. Prior to your procedure, your doctor will tell you which area of your body will need to be scanned, and inform you of any preparations you should make. Be aware that your scan may require you to remove articles of clothing, and you may need to wear a hospital gown throughout the procedure. Metal objects of any kind will interfere with proper imaging, and you must remove jewelry, watches or similar items before scanning begins.
- Depending on the area of your body under examination, your doctor may ask you to make some temporary alterations to your routine. This may include modest changes in the foods you eat, or a switch to an all-liquid diet for a number of days prior to your CAT scan. You may also need to avoid all food and drink for a number of hours prior to testing. Additionally, your doctor may require use of laxatives, suppositories or an enema to allow better imaging of internal structures.
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In some cases, getting a CAT scan requires use of what is known as contrast material. This is a fluid that screens out X-ray radiation and allows the CAT scan technician to acquire a much higher- quality image. Contrast material may be given to you as a drink, or injected directly into a vein. Materials you drink will pass through your system and be eliminated through your stool. Materials injected into your bloodstream are normally eliminated through the kidneys, and may not be suitable if you have kidney problems or any disorder that may degrade kidney function. Tell your doctor in advance if this is a concern. If you are given a drinkable contrast material, it may taste unpleasant, although some products include flavoring designed to make the drink more tolerable.
Be aware that contrast materials may cause a mild or moderate allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction typically include itchiness and/or hives, but may also include an asthmatic attack in asthma sufferers. In some rare cases, reaction to contrast materials may be severe. Your doctor or CAT scan technician will monitor you for signs of distress. If you do not feel well, let the doctor or technician know immediately. Additionally, if you have a history of allergic reaction to contrast materials, tell your doctor in advance. - A CAT scan procedure is painless, and typically lasts no more than an hour. Results from your scan will be interpreted by a specialist called a radiologist, who will pass on the results to your doctor.
