A CT-Scan is a special type of X-ray imaging that sends X-rays at an array of angles through the target area of the body using a special series of X-ray detectors. This helps your doctor see the bones, organs and blood vessels of your body. A computer then compiles the images into a 3-Dimensional image of the body part of interest. Each image is composed of a set of cross-sectional pictures that can be viewed individually as “slices” of the 3D-image. Both the CT and CAT Scans can reveal information that is not apparent in ordinary X-rays.

Depending on the area being scanned the test can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour. Upon arrival you may be asked to change into a hospital gown (depending on the area to be scanned), and then you will lie down on a bed that will slide into large-circular scanner. During the scan you will be positioned by the CT-technologist, simply relax and be as still as possible, and possibly asked to hold your breath for a few seconds. A radiologist (doctor who specializes in reading X-rays) will read the scan and send the report to your physician who will later give you the results.

Before the Scan

There is no preparation for a CT scan of the chest. For abdominal CT scans, each hospital has variations in preparation instructions. Please check with the hospital you are having your scan at. We recommend that you arrive between 15 and 30 minutes prior to your scan.

Where?

Most hospitals are equipped with the ability to perform CT-scans. This allows us to book a test as close to your home as possible. Here are some of the hospitals we often use. 

If you need to reschedule your CT scan, please contact patient scheduling in whichever hospital your scan is booked at. If you are rescheduling, please let our office know. Keep in mind that it needs to be rescheduled prior to your recheck date.

• Alliston – Stevenson Memorial Hospital
• Barrie – Royal Victoria Hospital
• Bracebridge – South Muskoka Memorial Hospital
• Collingwood – Collingwood General & Marine Hospital
• Huntsville – Huntsville District Memorial Hospital
• Lindsay – Ross Memorial Hospital
• Markham/Stouffville – Markham Stouffville Hospital
• Midland – Georgian Bay General Hospital
• Newmarket – Southlake Regional Health Centre
• Orangeville – Headwaters Health Care Centre
• Orillia – Soldiers Memorial Hospital