CT with IV Contrast and 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.
  • 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.
  • Henry Ford Hospital, West Bloomfield Hospital, and Macomb Hospital patients: Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.
  • Macomb Health Center (Chesterfield, Richmond, Washington Twp) and Wyandotte Hospital patients: Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. 
  • Allegiance Hospital patients: Arrive 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to your scheduled 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.

Procedure

  • You will need to drink water prior to or upon your visit (instructions of when to drink will be given to you). You can use the restroom as needed.  
  • You will lie on a table. The table slides into the CT scanner.
  • You will be given contrast through an intravenous (IV) line.
  • 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.

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Choose a location and schedule an appointment.

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