CT Scan
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan, also referred to as a CAT Scan, uses special
x-ray equipment and computers to provide uniquely valuable cross-section
images of soft tissue, bone and blood vessels inside the area of the body
being examined.
When are CT scans recommended?
CT scans can be used to diagnose such diverse problems as:
- Blood clots in the lungs
- Bleeding in the brain
- Kidney stones
- Inflamed appendix
- Cancer of the brain, liver, pancreas, bone, etc.
- Bone fractures
What to expect during a CT scan
During a CT scan, the patient lies very still on a special table that moves
through a large opening in a donut-shaped, rotating x-ray scanner. CT
scans can take 45 minutes to an hour. A board-certified radiologist will
interpret the results and send a report to your physician in a timely fashion.
Prior to most exams, you are required to be NPO (no liquids or food by
mouth) for four hours. Some procedures require patients to drink a liquid
contrast material (dye) to highlight the stomach and intestinal area.
You may be given an IV (intravenous catheter) if the procedure requires
IV contrast to see your blood vessels.
Please notify your doctor if you have any kidney issues and the CT order
calls for contrast dye. Because you must be able to lie still in an enclosed
space for an extended period of time, please notify your physician or
the CT scan department (303-415-7550) if you are claustrophobic or unable
to lie still for 30 minutes or more.
Benefits and risks
CT scans help physicians diagnose conditions and target treatment. CT scans
expose patients to ionizing radiation in a slightly greater amount than
a simple x-ray. We use a state-of-the-art 128-slice CT scanner with low-dose
capacities.
BCH demonstrates our dedication to providing the safest, highest quality
Imaging services by having a specially trained medical physicist onsite
full-time to regularly test and adjust all equipment to ensure our patients
receive the smallest dose of radiation needed for any exam.
Schedule a CT scan appointment
For your convenience, imaging services are offered in Boulder and Lafayette:
Foothills Hospital (Boulder)
Community Medical Center (Lafayette)
Paying for Services
BCH accepts most major insurance plans. Explore
Self-Pay pricing options if you are uninsured or wish to pay directly for any service.
Questions About Your Bill?
For Billing and Payment information, click
here.