What to Expect before Going for CT Scan in Gurgaon?

CT scan or Computed Tomography Scan is often referred to as the Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) Scan. It uses X-ray beams to capture the images of internal organs. These beams provide better results than a standard X-ray scan with a detailed picture of internal organs. You can get the CT scan done on any part of the body. CT scan reports can be used for the next diagnosis and various studies by the doctor.

How many types of CT Scans are available in Gurgaon?

There are three types of CT scan in Gurgaon – High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) scan, Contrast-enhanced CT Scan (CECT), and non-contrast CT Scan (NCCT). Your doctor may recommend one of these types of CT scan as per your diagnosis.

NCCT is a standard CT scan in which contrast dye is not used for imaging. The specialist will inject the contrast dye to get detailed insight into your body parts when you need a CECT scan. The contrast dye will appear white and block the X-ray beam in the CT scan. With the contrast CT scan, your doctor can find the abnormalities and changes in the intestines or blood vessels.

Special techniques are used to improve image quality in an HRCT scan. Patients having lung disease usually have to go through an HRCT scan.

When Do You Need a CT Scan?

Sometimes internal injuries are hard to detect. In those emergencies, a CT scan is recommended. This imaging technique is relatively fast as compared to MRI and other procedures. Here are some of the reasons doctors recommend a CT scan –

• To inspect the internal damages
• To locate and identify any infection, abnormalities, and tumors, etc.
• For planning guided biopsy
• For examining bone damages
• To check blood vessels for any abnormalities
• To keep track of treatment progress and ensure that the patient is recovering

Which parts of the body do CT Scans cover?

CT scan is a beneficial procedure to cover the internal organs. Basically, it covers the following body parts –

• Spine
• Abdomen
• Shoulder
• Chest
• Heart
• Brain
• Knee
• Heart
• All joints of the body

How is a CT Scan done?

CT scan is a completely painless and fast imaging procedure that is recommended to diagnose and detect abnormalities in several internal organs and body parts. A large tunnel you will see is a CT scanner that has an X-ray inside.  You will be asked to lie flat on the table. Then, the lab technician will slide you into the scanner.

The CT machine will rotate the X-ray around the parts of your body and click various pictures in parts. It turns and creates loud noises that seem to be like buzzing. Any movement may blur or distort the images. So, you will be asked to stay put until the procedure is finished. A radiologist will keep track of the whole process outside in another room. As per the part of the body which needs to be tested and the study, the entire process may take around 20 minutes.

What to do before going for a CT Scan?

You don’t have to do anything much before going for a CT scan. You can keep up with your routine without any particular diet. However, you will want to wear the gown that a lab technician will provide. You have to leave all your metallic belongings outside the scan room.

Sometimes, a contrast dye is injected or given orally to examine specific parts of the body with more detailed images. However, you should ask your doctor whether you need to fast for several hours before going for a scan. If contrast dye is required, you will get some briefing from the doctor.

Is CT Scan safe?

Since x-ray beams are used in CT scanners to capture images, there is a little bit of radiation exposure. Usually, it is safe, but it may have certain risks for some people. CT scan can be harmful only when it is done regularly. A patient may develop cancer cells if they are exposed to radiation over time.

CT scan is not recommended for women who are expected mothers or pregnant as exposure to radiation can be harmful to the fetus. Contrast dye may cause some allergic reactions. So, it is also not recommended for people with kidney problems. If you have allergies or prevalent health conditions, be sure to tell your doctor before getting a contrast dye and starting the procedure.

How many days do you need to wait for a report from the CT Scan?

After the procedure, the images captured during the CT scan will be stored in a particular computer. The radiologist will analyze those images before preparing the report. This process takes time. Hence, you will have to wait for one or two days for the CT scan results. After getting the report, you may want to show it to your doctor so that they can suggest the right treatment accordingly.

Book an online Appointment for CT Scan in Gurgaon at Modern Diagnostic & Research Centre, one of the best imaging centres in Gurgaon.