Computed Tomography (CT Scan or CAT Scan) is a valuable diagnostic procedure which uses a series of x-rays to produce cross-sectional images of the bones and soft tissue of the body. A CT Scan can be used to detect internal injuries and bleeding, tumors, muscle and bone disorders.
A CT Scan of the brain is used to diagnose brain injury, brain tumor, aneurysm or bleeding inside the head.
A CT Scan of the spine can be used to diagnose spine pain, detect tumors, and to measure bone density for the detection of osteoporosis.
A CT scan can be used to check for tumors or abnormalities of many organs in the body, including the: liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, bowel and adrenal glands.
A CT scan can be used to evaluate the reproductive organs, including: the prostate, testicles, uterus, cervix, and ovaries.
CT of the sinuses is used to detect inflammatory diseases, such as sinusitis.
A Colonography is used to screen for polyps or cancer in the large intestine. Colonography screening is intended to find these growths in the early stages, before cancer has developed. A CT Enterography is used to evaluate the small bowel to assess the presence of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease.
Cardiac CT Angiography (CCTA) to detect calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. A CCTA is commonly used to determine whether symptoms of chest pain may be caused by a coronary blockage.
Why Choose Us?
False Creek Healthcare in Vancouver B.C. uses the Lightspeed Volume Computed Tomography (VCT) 64-Slice System, representing the latest generation of GE CT scanning technology. The system produces images of unprecedented detail in a very short time and with a much lower radiation dosage.
What to Expect
Pre-Screening Considerations
Pregnancy – Women who are pregnant should not have a CT scan.
Heart Conditions – Patients who have heart grafts or atrial fibrillation should not have a CT scan.
Contrast Material Allergy – Although rare, the contrast material involved in CT scans can cause an allergic reaction.
One of our expert technologists will escort you into the CT scanning room and have you lie on the padded table. You will be asked to lie very still and hold your breath for a short time in order to minimize any body movement and produce a clearer image.
You may feel the table move while images are being taken at certain locations of your body. Your technologist will monitor you during the entire exam and will be able to communicate with you through an intercom.
Depending on the specific exam, a contrast solution may be administered through an IV to help improve the accuracy of the examination. It is important that you inform your doctor beforehand if you any allergies, or if you have previously had an allergic reaction to a contrast solution.
Specific details of your upcoming examination will be explained fully by one of our CT technologist or by your patient care coordinator.
After Your CT Scan
Our radiologist will carefully analyze your CT images and provide a report to you and your physician. Once they have received the report your physician will then discuss the results with you. Your CT technologist will also provide you with a CD containing the images from your scan when you leave.
Safety
CT Scans are a safe and effective diagnostic procedure. Millions of CT exams are performed across Canada every year without complications. Additionally, the GE Lightspeed VCT system has been designed with dose reduction features that significantly minimize your exposure to radiation. CT diagnostic imaging is supported by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT), which provides continuing education, certification, and a registry of radiologic technologists. Our healthcare professionals are trained and experienced in safely operating the CT scanner to obtain the best images to assist in an accurate diagnosis.
4 Comments
i have a small lump at the base of my head and one up near the middle of my head to the left which is bigger. i have never had anisetic only the odd plain xray for little cysts on my tummy . so could you please send me a picture of the machene fo xraying my head in both places.i’m going on 70 .
thank you muchly sharon
I wonder what defines an allergic reaction to the scan- I had a series of different symtoms after a full spine(including a neck scan). One month previous I also had a cat scan on my head.
I am a person who has been subjected to far more Xrays (usually dental) than the average person.
After the scan – I felt nauseous- totally lost my appetite for 3 days afterwards.
My mind was not able to even follow an undemanding TV program – I was not able to FOCUS on my bills to be paid. I had an experience of being mentally “Vague”.
I felt my “life energy” was depleted by about l/3. I also had fine bumps all over my face and neck.
Would you say that this is typical of an allergic reaction?
I would appreciate your reply. Sincerely RD -
I am a technologist. I can assure you your symptoms were not from having a scan done. not even 5 or 10 scans could do this to you. I think seeing a mental health specialist may help your issues.
A year and a half ago I had a severe concussion they took a CT scan and found out that I have a incidentally meningioma 6 month later I had to do an MRI it has not changed, now I’m supposed to have another
CT scan done, without the contrast as I’m allergyc to it. My concern is all this radiation. I’m booked for the Lions gate hospital in North Vancouver, but I was told that the equipment is very old, so maybe more radiation. I’m not sure hwat to do. Thank you for your answer Silvia