A CT (computed tomography) scan is an X-ray procedure that combines many X-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. CT scans define normal and abnormal structures in the body. At times, intravenously injected iodine-containing contrast material is used. A CT scan is painless and can provide extremely accurate images of body structures in addition to guiding the radiologist in performing certain procedures, such as biopsies of suspected cancers, removal of internal body fluids for various tests, and the draining of abscesses which are deep in the body. Many of these procedures are minimally invasive and have markedly decreased the need to perform surgery to accomplish the same outcome.
Patients with a history of allergy to the X-ray dye should notify their physicians and radiology staff. Oral and rectal contrast may also be required for CT abdomen and CT pelvis examinations.
General site 4001 Leslie St, North York, ON M2K 1E1 1st Floor, Medical Imaging, Registration A
Hours Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m
Contact Tel: 416-756-6190 Fax: 416-756-6192
Note: CT hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
If you have kidney disease, your blood work must include a serum creatinine test. Your doctor should ensure that your blood work is completed within 90 days before your CT scan.
If your blood work is outdated or missing the required information, the receptionist or technologist may ask you to visit your clinic or referring physician to arrange for a new test. Your CT scan will be rescheduled accordingly.
Different types of CT scans require different preparations. Please consult the instructions you were given at the time of booking.
For a CT scan of the abdomen, do not eat or drink for four hours before your appointment. You may be required to drink contrast dye or water one hour before the procedure. It is important to follow the drinking instructions carefully.
Some CT scans require an injection of contrast dye. A technologist will place a needle in a vein in your arm or hand just before the scan to administer the contrast, which enhances the visibility of blood vessels and provides additional details for the radiologist.
If you have had a previous reaction to contrast dye, you will need pre-medication. Your referring doctor will provide a prescription, and it is essential to take the medication as directed for your safety.
Non-Contrast CTs: Register ½ hour prior to test. No other preparation required.
CT’s with IV Contrast
If no “oral” contrast, arrive 1⁄2 hour before test
If both oral and IV contrast, arrival time prior to test is dependent on the type of oral contrast required:
Water – Arrive 1⁄2 hour prior to (patient sips 1 litre of water starting 1 hour prior to test)
Peglyte – Arrive 1 hour prior to test (given onsite)
Telebrix – Arrive 1.5 hours prior to test (given onsite)
CT’s Colonoscopy
Routine 1-day Bowel Preparation (IP)
Day 1 (1 day before test)
Breakfast
1st package of Pico-Salax
75 mL of EZCAT barium (delivered by MI)
Clear Liquid Diet
Begin to drink 1 glass of water, clear juice, ginger ale or Gatorade every hour until 8pm
Lunch
Clear liquid diet
75 mL EZCAT barium (delivered by MI)
Continue to drink 1 glass of water, clear juice, ginger ale or Gatorade every hour until 8pm
Afternoon (2-3 pm)
2nd package of Pico-Salax
Continue to drink 1 glass of water, clear juice, ginger ale or Gatorade every hour until 8pm
Supper
Clear liquid diet
75 mL EZCAT barium (delivered by MI)
Take 1 Bisacodyl 5 mg tablet with water
Continue to drink 1 glass of water, clear juice, ginger ale or Gatorade every hour until 8pm
Bedtime
Drink 30 mL of Gastrograffin or Telebrix mixed with 240 mL (8 oz) of water (gastrograffin delivered by MI to nursing unit to mix with water)
Nothing to eat or drink after midnight
Day 2 (day of test)
Sips of water for any prescribed regular medications
Arrive in the Medical Imaging department 30 minutes prior to the test
Try to empty bowel, one last time, before the test
May resume regular diet and activity after the test
Arrive to the hospital at the time instructed dependent on exam type. You can expect to be here for 2-3 hours.
Check in at Medical Imaging, Registration A on the first floor.
The technologist or a nurse will go through a screening questionnaire with you that includes your medical history, current medications and allergies. For your safety, this questionnaire is required each time you have a CT.
At this time, you can ask any questions.
The technologist will help you lie in the correct position on the examining table. The table will then be positioned into an open-ended machine so that the body part being scanned is in the center.
You will be given breathing instructions, which are available in different languages.
You may be given a contrast injection. This is a special dye given through a vein (via IV) to help the team see the vessels clearly and show abnormal areas.When you’re given the contrast, you may feel a warm, flush sensation throughout your body. This is absolutely normal and will pass.
There’s a small risk of allergy to the dye. Any symptoms are normally mild in nature, including hives, itchiness, or a rash. If you notice any symptoms after the injection, please notify the technologist.
The results of your CT scan will be sent to your physician within five to seven business days. Your physician will review the test results with you.
Your report can also be accessed through MyChart and PocketHealth t two to three weeks after your test.
