What is the exam?
A multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) scan is one of the safest and most reliable diagnostic imaging methods available today. It is simple, quick and painless. The scanner rotates X-ray emitters around the patient while taking transversal x-ray images of the body. These are converted digitally to create digital images called ‘tomographic slices’. The MSCT scan builds the structure of the body and internal organs based on these tomographic slices, allowing them to be visualised with high precision and reliability.
The images generated by MSCT scans create a three-dimensional image of the area being studied, which makes it possible to study overlapping areas. For example, an MSCT scan of the heart allows the doctor to visualise and navigate through the arteries in order to make a more precise diagnosis.
How is it done?
The patient lies down on the examination table, following the instructions given by the doctor and/or technician, and then remains immobile. While the table slides into the scanner tunnel, the X-ray emitters rotate at a high speed, taking X-ray pictures of the area being studied.
The captured images are processed by a computer, allowing the tomographic slices and the three-dimensional area under study to be visualised. For some MSCT scans a medicine is required, known as contrast medium, to allow a clearer, more precise visualisation.
Patient recommendations
• Do not eat or drink anything for 4 hours prior to the exam (you can take your medicines).
• Bring previous scans, such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT, MRI, etc.
• Patients who are allergic to IODINE, shellfish or fish and patients who are DIABETIC must contact the clinic for proper guidance.
• Inform the clinic when the patient needs sedation or anaesthesia.
• Arrive 1 hour before the scan (for abdominal and pelvic scans).
Procedures:
CT Scan of the Abdomen and Pelvis
This is a study of the abdomen and pelvis from the diaphragmatic domes to the pubic symphysis. Volumetric acquisition allows multi-planar reconstructions.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
The patient should arrive 1 hour before his or her appointment to begin preparing for the exam, which consists of drinking a liquid that contains contrast medium. This will make the loops of the digestive tract appear opaque.
CT Scan of the Upper Abdomen
This is a study of the upper half of the abdomen, from the diaphragmatic domes to the iliac crests. Volumetric acquisition allows multi-planar reconstructions.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
The patient should arrive 1 hour before his or her appointment to begin preparing for the exam, which consists of drinking a liquid that contains contrast medium. This will make the loops of the digestive tract appear opaque.
CT Scan of the Pelvis
This is a study of the lower half of the abdomen, from the iliac crests to the pubic symphysis. Volumetric acquisition allows multi-planar reconstructions.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
The patient should arrive 1 hour before his or her appointment to begin preparing for the exam, which consists of drinking a liquid that contains contrast medium. This will make the loops of the digestive tract appear opaque.
CT Scan of the Spinal Column
(Cervical, Thoracic and Lumbar Spine and Sacral Region)
This is a study of the entire spinal column or a specific segment as indicated. Volumetric acquisition allows multi-planar and 3D reconstructions.
Preparation:
No preparation required.
CT Scan of the Ears (Cerebellopontine Angle)
This is a high-resolution volumetric study to assess the different structures of the ear.
Preparation:
4-hour fasting period.
CT Scan of the Joints
Elbow, Shoulder, Knee, Foot
This a study of a specific indicated joint. Volumetric acquisition allows multi-planar and 3D reconstructions.
Preparation:
No preparation required.
Dental CT Scan
DentaScan (upper and/or lower jaw)
This is a CT scan of the maxilla and/or mandible performed using volumetric acquisition. This allows orthoradially reformatted images spaced 1 mm apart to be used when planning dental implants.
Preparation:
No preparation required.
CT Scan of the Paranasal Sinuses
This is a study of the paranasal sinuses. Volumetric acquisition allows multi-planar and 3D reconstructions.
Preparation:
No preparation required.
CT Scan of the Chest
This is a study of the chest that assesses the parenchyma of the chest and structures of the mediastinum using multiplanar reconstruction.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
CT Scan of the Kidneys
This renal and adrenal study allows multi-planar reconstructions.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
The patient should arrive 1 hour before his or her appointment to begin preparing for the exam, which consists of drinking a liquid that contains contrast medium. This will make the loops of the digestive tract appear opaque.
CT Scan of the Urinary Tract
This is a study of the urinary tract with visualisation of the excretory system after administration of an intravenous iodine-based contrast medium.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
Drink water.
CT Angiography
This is a study of the arterial circulation in the indicated region after administration of an intravenous iodine-based contrast medium.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
CT Scan of the Head
This is a study of the brain parenchyma and the bony structures of the skull.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
CT Scan of the Neck
This is a study of the soft tissues of the neck.
Preparation:
6 to 8-hour fasting period.
CT Virtual Colonoscopy
This is an assessment of the colon using a non-invasive method to detect polyps, diverticula and other pathologies of the colon.
Preparation:
Instructions are given when you book your appointment (in person).
