Information for Patients

"What is the preparation for a CT?"

This depends on the area of the body being examined. You may be asked to fast (no solid food, and only clear liquids) for 4 hours before the procedure. If the examination is of the abdomen, you may be asked to arrive 1 hour before the scan to drink a dilute gastrografin and cordial liquid, which outlines the bowel. We may substitute a very dilute barium solution for this.

When you arrive for your appointment, you will be asked about any history of allergy, or what medications you are taking. You will be asked to fill out a form indicating this history.