CT Scan | Riverside

Key Points

A CT scan uses advanced X-ray technology to produce detailed images of your internal organs, bones, and tissues.
It’s commonly used to diagnose injuries, guide procedures, detect tumors, and monitor chronic conditions.
The test is quick, painless, and noninvasive, typically lasting less than 30 minutes.
Some scans require a contrast dye for better image clarity, which may involve minor preparation or side effects.
CT scans are considered very safe, but it’s important to notify your doctor if you’re pregnant or have kidney issues.

Overview

What Is a CT Scan?

A CT scan (computed tomography scan) is a painless, noninvasive imaging test that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. Unlike regular X-rays, CT scans provide more detailed views of bones, organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues.

CT scans are a powerful diagnostic tool used in emergency care, cancer detection, injury evaluation, and disease monitoring.

Why Is the Test Done?

CT scans are used to:

Diagnose conditions like tumors, infections, strokes, blood clots, and bone fractures
Evaluate internal injuries after trauma or accidents
Guide procedures, such as biopsies or surgeries
Monitor treatment progress for cancer, heart disease, or chronic conditions
Detect abnormalities that might not be visible with standard X-rays

Your doctor may order a CT scan to get a clearer view of a specific area of concern and make a more accurate diagnosis or treatment plan.

A patient in a hospital gown lies on a CT scan table, attended by two healthcare professionals in blue scrubs, inside a medical imaging room.

What to Expect

Before the Test

Fasting may be required if contrast dye is used (typically no food or drink for 4–6 hours before).
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any jewelry or metal objects.
Let your provider know if you're pregnant, have kidney problems, or are allergic to contrast material (iodine-based dye).
In some cases, you may be given a contrast agent orally, intravenously (IV), or rectally to help highlight certain areas of the body.

During the Test

You will lie on a narrow table that slides into a large, doughnut-shaped CT scanner.
The machine rotates around you, taking multiple images from different angles.
You may hear whirring or clicking sounds but the test is painless.
The technician may ask you to hold your breath briefly during scanning to reduce motion and improve image quality.
Most CT scans take between 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the area being examined.

After the Test

You can usually resume normal activities right away unless you received a sedative.
If contrast dye was used, drink plenty of fluids to help flush it from your system.
A radiologist will analyze your images, and your provider will discuss the results with you. These results will also be in your medical record that you can access through Riverside MyChart.

Are There Any Risks?

CT scans are very safe for most people. However:

You’ll be exposed to a small dose of radiation, but the benefits typically outweigh the risks, especially for critical diagnoses.
Contrast dye may cause allergic reactions in rare cases.
People with kidney disease should inform their doctor, as dye can affect kidney function.
Pregnant women should avoid unnecessary CT scans due to potential risks to the baby.