CT

Hazleton Radiology Associates has the latest, most advanced technology to benefit patients by offering your physician quality images to assist in your personal diagnosis and treatment plan. Computed Axial Tomography or CAT scans are used to look inside your body using cross-sectional images. The CT scanner has a large ring and the x-ray tube rotates around you 360 degrees, taking a picture or "slice". The computer then creates this picture onto a computer screen and "hard copy" photographs can be taken to record findings.

To assist in this process, a contrast agent is often used. This agent contains iodine which x-rays cannot penetrate. By injecting this solution into the body, we can better visualize organs and structures that might not be seen otherwise. There is some risk of kidney injury in patients who already have kidney disease. To screen for unsuspected kidney impairment blood tests to evaluate kidney function, BUN and Creatinine, are required for all patients who are: older than 55, have a history of kidney disease, or have diabetes.

Some individuals experience allergic reactions to the contrast agent. People who are asthmatic are at slightly higher risk. People who have many other allergies are at slightly greater risk. There is no association with seafood allergy or skin allergies to iodine preparations. Allergic reactions include hives and shortness of breath. There are generally mild and do not require treatment.

CAT scans of the head and body can be used to diagnose a wide variety of medical conditions. Being scheduled for a CT scan does not necessarily mean that you are suffering from an illness, but it is the best technology available to find out what is causing physical symptoms.

During the exam, you will lie on a table, and it will slowly move in order for the x-ray to image the entire area. You will be asked not to move, and to hold your breath while each x-ray picture is taken. The machine does not touch you, and the exam is painless. CT scanning at Hazleton Radiology Associates is a rapid process. Images of the entire chest or abdomen take less than 30 seconds.

 

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