CT examination precautions: a must-read guide for patients

CT examination precautions: a must-read guide for patients

As an imaging doctor, I know the anxiety and doubts that patients have when facing CT examinations. CT (computed tomography) is an efficient and painless imaging examination technology that can help doctors clearly observe the internal structure of the body and provide important basis for diagnosis. In order to ensure a smooth examination and accurate results, please read the following precautions carefully.

1. Preparation before the inspection

1. Dietary adjustments

- Abdominal and pelvic examination: Usually fasting for 4-6 hours is required to avoid food affecting the image quality. It is recommended to eat a light diet one day before the examination and eat less gas-producing foods (such as beans and carbonated drinks).

-Other parts (such as head and chest): Generally, fasting is not necessary, but please follow the doctor's advice.

2. Medication and disease notification

Diabetes: If injection of iodinated contrast agent is required, patients taking metformin should stop taking the medication 48 hours in advance and resume taking the medication 48 hours after the examination.

Allergy history: If you are allergic to iodine contrast agents, seafood or drugs, be sure to inform your doctor in advance.

Renal insufficiency: Contrast agents may increase the burden on the kidneys, so the decision to undergo the examination should be made after evaluation.

Pregnancy or pregnancy preparation: Pregnant women should avoid CT examinations as much as possible and communicate with their doctor in special circumstances.

3. Clothing and items

-Change into the examination gown provided by the hospital to avoid metal interference.

-Remove removable dentures, earrings, hearing aids, etc., and hand over mobile phones, keys and other items to family members for safekeeping.

2. Cooperation during the inspection process

1. Stay relaxed and follow instructions

- The CT machine is shaped like a "large donut". You will lie flat on the examination bed and slowly move through the scanning ring. The examination is painless, but you will hear a slight roar, so don't panic.

- You need to stay still during the examination to avoid blurring of the image. The doctor may ask you to "hold your breath" or "don't swallow" through the microphone.

2. Instructions for use of contrast agents

Intravenous injection: Some examinations require injection of contrast agent to enhance image contrast. During the injection, you may experience body heat and a metallic taste in your mouth, which is normal and will subside in about 1-2 minutes.

Provide timely feedback of any discomfort: If you experience itching, difficulty breathing, palpitations, etc., notify medical staff immediately.

3. Precautions for special groups

Children: They need to be accompanied by their family members. Those who cry and refuse to cooperate may need sedatives.

Patients with claustrophobia: inform the doctor in advance, a short examination or psychological counseling may be required.

3. Precautions after the inspection

1. Contrast agent metabolism

Drinking plenty of water (more than 2000 ml per day) can accelerate the excretion of contrast agent. People with normal renal function can completely metabolize it within 24 hours.

A few people may experience mild rash or nausea, which usually does not require treatment; if symptoms worsen, please seek medical attention immediately.

2. Report collection time

- Ordinary CT scans take about 1-2 hours to produce a preliminary report, while enhanced CT scans take longer. Please consult the examination department for details.

IV. Answers to frequently asked questions

- Is radiation harmful to the body?

CT has a certain amount of radiation, but the dose of a single examination is within a safe range. The doctor will recommend the examination after weighing the pros and cons. Pregnant women and children should be cautious.

- Is enhanced CT more accurate than conventional CT?

Enhanced CT uses contrast agents to display blood vessels and blood supply to lesions, and has higher diagnostic value for tumors, inflammation, etc., but it is not required in all cases.

- Can other tests be done on the same day?

If you need to undergo X-ray, B-ultrasound or other examinations, it is recommended to complete the CT scan first to avoid repeated queuing.

Conclusion

CT examination is the doctor's "perspective eye", and your cooperation is the key to obtaining accurate results. If you have any questions, please feel free to communicate with the medical staff. I wish you a smooth examination and a speedy recovery!

*——Your imaging doctor*

**Tips**: Before the examination, you can bring previous imaging materials (such as X-rays, MRI films) to help the doctor compare and analyze.