UNION HOSPITAL IMAGING SERVICES

CT or CAT scanning uses special xray equipment to obtain two-demensional cross sectional images of the body. The patient is positioned on the CT exam table usually on their back or possibly on their side or stomach. The patient will be asked to hold still and at times, hold their breath. This is necessary in preventing motion that would make the pictures blurry. A multi slice CT scanner can take several pictures in a matter of seconds, so the amount of time a patient needs to hold still and hold their breath is greatly reduced.

Some CT exams require the patient to drink contrast material or to be injected with IV contrast material. Contrast material is an important part in "highlighting" organs and blood vessels and ensuring a quality exam is obtained. All patients need to bring a list of home medications with them to the appointent.

- Patients whose exams are ordered with IV contrast material: If you are over 65 or diabetic and your exam is scheduled with IV cotrast, you will need lab work drawn to make sure the kidneys are functioning properly before you can be given the IV contrast.

- Patients who are taking metformin, glucophage, glucovance, or Avandament for diabetes: You will have a discontinue taking this medince for 48 hourts after the injection of IV contrast material. You will also need to talk to your doctor before you resume taking the medication.

For more information on IV contrast material, visit www.arrt.org.

CT Imaging:

The following is a list of CAT scan procedures that are preformated at West Central Community Hospital. Click on the exam to get detailed information about exam prep and lenght of exam.

• CT Abdominal
• CT Head/Brain
• CT Chest/Thorax
• CT Upper Extremity/Lower Extremity
• CT Facial Bones
• CT Pelvis
• CT Sinus
• CT Soft Tissue, Neck
• CT Spine

To schedual an exam or for more inforamtion, please call the Radiology Department at West Central Community Hospital at (765) 832-1317. Mist exams are scheduled Monday - Friday from 7:30am to 4:00 pm. Some late evenings and weekend appointments are available upon request.