Computer tomography
Computer tomography is a specific type of X-ray examination. Computer Tomography (CT) generates three-dimensional image slices and therefore provides a more detailed view of the inside of the body.
In addition to standard examinations, we also carry out CT-guided therapeutic and diagnostic procedures. The aim is to achieve the greatest possible diagnostic informative value with the lowest possible radiation dose.
Examination
Preparation
- Please inform us if you are pregnant
- Please notify the medical radiology specialist if you suffer from allergies (asthma, hay fever), kidney dysfunction, thyroid gland disorders or iodine hypersensitivity.
- You may drink water and keep taking your medications
- Do not eat anything for 3 hours prior to the examination
- When examining the abdominal and pelvic organs, an oral contrast medium may need to be administered one to two hours before the examination to improve the assessment of the gastrointestinal tract. This agent is subsequently excreted normally via the intestines.
- An additional contrast agent is injected into the bloodstream via a vein in the arm to improve the imaging of organs and vessels. This radiopaque solution is excreted via the renal system.
- To assess the rectum, a small enema may be given immediately before the examination.
What to bring along
- Current lab test results (kidney and thyroid gland measurements)
- Health insurance card
Procedure
The examination takes between 5 to 15 minutes. You should lie down as still as possible during the examination. If this is a problem, please inform the medical or technical staff. While lying on a bed, you will be slowly moved through a ring-shaped opening several times. X-rays are used to take several cross sections of your body every few millimetres. During the examination you will be continuously monitored by our medical-technical radiology (MTRA) staff. Depending on the type of examination, you may also receive instructions on how to breathe. We ask you to follow these instructions to the letter, otherwise this may result in poor image quality. It is quite normal for the contrast agent that passes through the kidneys to trigger a feeling of warmth in the body, a metallic taste or an urge to urinate. These side effects will subside after a few seconds.
After the examination
Please note the following if contrast agent was injected:
- As a general rule, the contrast agents that are used nowadays are well tolerated and are quickly excreted via the kidneys
- You should drink a plenty of fluids to excrete the contrast agent more quickly