Computer Tomography

Computed tomography (CT) uses X-rays to visualise body parts in the horizontal plane with the option of obtaining secondary image reconstruction of other plains as well as 2D and 3D reconstructions. This technique is often used in the diagnostics of bone lesions, particularly small and delicate structures, e.g. ears and sinuses. The examinations are performed at our Medical Centres with the use of latest-generation spiral apparatus by Picker. The short time required for the examination of a relatively large body part, e.g. chest or abdomen with the pelvis, enables the performance of the entire procedure on held breath. Owing to this, results of high quality are obtained, devoid of distortions caused by movement.

Performed examinations: brain, ears, sinuses, chest, abdomen with lesser pelvis, bones and joints (according to the specialist recommendations) also in post-traumatic cases or spinal disc herniation, if there are contraindications against the MRI examination.
Disease entity differentiation or ruling out of pathologies usually requires the second phase of examination after the intravenous contrast agent administration, the decision on which is made by the radiologist. In view of the above, the last (light) meal may be taken 6 hours prior to the planned examination. Diabetic patients undergo the CT scan in the morning.

Immediately prior to the abdominal and lesser pelvic examination, the patient receives oral intestinal agent, necessary for obtaining images of diagnostic value. We only use top-quality contrast agents, safe for the patient. Any potential contraindications against their application are determined by a radiologist.

X-rays are not neutral for the human body, and thus computed tomography examinations are performed when there are rational medical indications for it. The contraindication against the performance of CT scan is pregnancy, while in children it is performed only on the basis of referral from a specialist deciding on the need for this procedure.
Preparation for the examination - computed tomography

Please bring the referral form when reporting for the examination.

Necessary tests
• creatinine and urea

Preparation for the examination
• Light meal is allowed - 3 hours prior to the examination at the latest.
• Adequate hydration prior to the examination is required (still water, neutral liquids).

Drugs
• On the day of examination, all the routinely administered drugs should be taken.
• Patients treated with metformin preparations should discontinue its use 48 h before and 24 h after the examination.

Necessary information for the physician
• The patient should provide the documentation of previous imaging examinations and medical history reports from the hospital.
• The physician should be informed of any allergy to contrast agents or other allergies and renal disorders (particularly patients with the creatinine clearance (GFR) below 30 ml/min).
• The white personnel (physician, nurse, technician) should be informed about pregnancy.

The examination
• Prior to the examination, the patient may be asked to remove jewellery, glasses or external hearing aid - if located near the examined area.
• Intravenous contrast agent administration may be necessary. The decision on administering the intravenous contrast agent is made by the radiologist based on the recommendations from the attending physician and patient's status.

During the procedure
• Inform about sudden complaints.

Contraindications
• An absolute contraindication against the examination is the first trimester of pregnancy. The second and third trimester and relative contraindications - depending on medical recommendations. In case of doubts, the female patient should perform a pregnancy test on her own.