CT Scan

About CT Scanning

CT scanning, also called computerized tomography, offer superior imaging capability, with regards to bone, abdominal and chest imaging. CT uses X-ray scanning to view cross-section images of the body. CT scans are typically performed on the head, lungs, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spine, kidneys, pelvis and joints. The CT Scan division at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens is accredited by the American College of Radiologists.

Core biopsies can be performed with the use of CT scan, which provides precise access in the positioning of a needle in deep-seated visceral tumors of the chest, abdomen and pelvis. It is highly useful for discovering abscesses and guiding the insertion of catheters for drainage as well as for workup of critically ill neurological patients.

Cardiac CT Scan

  • Siemens 384 slice CT scanner speed compensates for heart motion
  • Cardiac imaging with minimal or no beta blocker
  • Decreased scan time and multi-plane imaging with one scan

Patient Instructions

  • For any scan involving an injection of IV contrast, a patient should not eat or drink four hours prior to exam.
  • For a CT scan involving oral contrast, a patient should not eat or drink eight hours prior to the exam. A patient will be given a bottle of Redi-Cat to drink a half hour to 2 hours before the exam.
  • All patients receiving IV injection require a BUN/creatine level prior to the exam.

What to Expect

When called for your exam, a technologist will take you to the examination room and explain the procedure. You will lie on a flat padded table and slowly move into the CT scanner. The technologist will be in communication with you during the procedure. During the exam you may be asked to hold your breath for brief periods of time. Most scans take between five and 10 minutes.