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 Cans 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.

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 and technology to ensure that we use the lowest doses needed for your scan.

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, Lafayette and Erie:

Imaging at Foothills Hospital (Boulder)
Imaging at Community Medical Center (Lafayette)
Imaging at Erie Medical Center (Erie)

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.