Diagnostic Imaging Services

Computed Tomography Scan

Computed Tomography (CT) scans combine the use of a digital computer with a rotating x-ray device to create detailed cross-sectional images or "slices" of the different organs and body sections. These slices are then assembled in two-dimensional, high-resolution images by a computer. CT imaging is considered safe and the diagnostic benefit of a CT scan outweighs the risks of x-ray radiation exposure or injections of contrast media.

CT has the unique ability to present an image of a combination of soft tissue, bone, and blood vessels. For example, a conventional x-ray image of the head can only show the dense bone structures of the skull, whereas a CT image of the head allows physicians to also see soft tissue structures, such as the brain and blood vessels. As a result, CT scans provide better precision and reveal more information than a regular x-ray exam.

Physicians often use the CT scans to:

• Promptly identify injuries to the lungs, heart and blood vessels, liver, spleen, kidneys, bowel, or other internal organs suffering trauma.
• Guide biopsies and other procedures (i.e. abscess drainages and/or minimally invasive tumors).
• Determine the results of surgery (i.e. organ transplants and/or gastric bypass).
• Set-up and allow for the proper administration of radiation treatments for tumors and/or gauge response from chemotherapy treatment.

Preparation Instructions
To obtain preparation instructions for your upcoming test/procedure, click on a link below. You will be taken to a reliable, third-party website: www.radiologyinfo.org, a certified radiology website that is updated frequently to provide you with current information. Southlake Regional Health Centre supports the information provided on the following pages and will advise you of specific preparation instructions should they differ from the information below.

Cardiac CT for Calcium Scoring
Computed Tomography (CT) - Abdomen and Pelvis
Computed Tomography (CT) - Angiography
Computed Tomography (CT) - Body
Computed Tomography (CT) - Chest
Computed Tomography (CT) - Children (Pediatric)
Computed Tomography (CT) - Head
Computed Tomography (CT) - Sinuses
Computed Tomography (CT) - Spine
Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)

For information on resources available to you during your hospital visit or stay (for example: parking, what to bring, discharge times and other helpful information) please click on Patients and Visitors.