Computed tomography (CT) Procedure and contraindications for CT
Procedure for a CT scan What do I need to bear in mind?
Please remember to bring your referral form and, if possible, any previous findings and images. Bring your current blood test results, especially those relating to kidney function (creatinine) and thyroid function (TSH).
During the examination, patients usually lie on their back on a narrow table that slowly moves into the ring-shaped opening of the device. This opening is approximately 70 cm wide and the device is more of a ring than a "tube," so you will not feel confined and do not need to worry about claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces). During the examination, you can talk to the doctor or X-ray assistant at any time via an intercom system.
The examination itself is completely painless and takes between 1 and 5 minutes, depending on the complexity. You should lie as relaxed and still as possible during the examination. An automated voice may give you precise instructions on how to breathe. Please follow these instructions, as each breath can cause your internal organs to appear differently.
Untersuchungen des Kopfes (Schädel und Gehirn) sowie der Bandscheiben und Skelettanteile bedürfen keiner besonderen Vorbereitung. Etwa 45 Minuten vor der Untersuchung des Bauches und Beckens wird bei gewissen Fragestellungen eine Lösung aus 0.5 l Wasser und 10-20 ml jodhaltigem Kontrastmittel vermischt und dem Patienten zum Trinken gereicht, um den Magen-Darm-Trakt abgrenzen zu können. In vielen Fällen müssen Sie „nüchtern“ zur Untersuchung erscheinen, das heißt 4 Stunden vorher nichts essen. Wenn möglich 1 Stunde vor der Untersuchung 1 Liter Wasser trinken.
Denken Sie daran aktuelle Blutwerte mitzubringen – insbesondere TSH, Krea und GFR.
Contrast agents are necessary for many CT examinations. Contrast agents are used to better visualize blood vessels, tumors with high blood flow, or inflammation. They are injected into a vein in the arm and produce images that are easier to evaluate. For examinations of the abdominal cavity, it may also be necessary to drink a contrast agent. As a rule, all contrast agents are well tolerated and are excreted by the kidneys after a short time. Few people are allergic to iodine-containing contrast agents. Therefore, you must fill out a questionnaire before contrast agent examinations so that any potential problems can be identified before the examination.
If you are diabetic and take tablets for this condition (metformin), you must stop taking them two days before the examination and may only start taking them again one day after the examination. Insulin injections do not interfere with the examination.