CT with IV Contrast (No Oral Contrast)

Computed Tomography (CT) is a test that combines x-rays and computer scans. The result is a detailed picture that can show problems with soft tissues, organs (such as your kidneys or lungs) and bones.

Preparation

• Nothing to eat or drink two hours prior to appointment.
• Patients 55 years or older and patients with a history of diabetes and/or renal disease require additional blood work including Creatinine within 3 months of procedure.
  • We ask blood work be completed 2-3 days prior to your scheduled appointment.
  • If blood work is not completed prior to your appointment, please arrive at least 1 hour prior and understand that your appointment may be delayed until lab work is resulted.
  • If your bloodwork was performed outside of a Henry Ford facility, please bring a copy of the results.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.
• For Henry Ford Macomb Hospital patients only: Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. 
• Bring a prescription/order if your doctor has given one to you. 
• Bring a list of your current medications.
• If allergic to IV contrast, please contact your ordering physician prior to the study.

Procedure

• You will lie on a table. The table slides into the CT scanner.
• You will be given contrast through an intravenous (IV) line (an IV line will be started at the beginning of your visit).
• You may feel warm or flushed during the injection of the IV contrast.
• The technologist will ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during your scan.

Considerations

• Due to the use of different types of oral contrast, if you are having a combination of any of the following exams performed, they must be done in the following order:
  • Bone density, then CT, then GI
    • If you are unable to schedule them in the above order, please wait 7 days between each exam.