CT Procedures and Preparation

Imaging
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(with Readi-CAT Oral Contrast) 

ExamTimeDiet RequiredSpecial Preparation
CT Abdomen1 hourNPO 12 hours before exam1. Patient drinks first dose of oral contrast (1/2 bottle of Readi-CAT) 1 hour before scan time.

2. Patient drinks 2nd dose of oral contrast (1/2 bottle of Readi-CAT) 30 minutes before scan time.
CT Abdomen & Pelvis or CT Pelvis1 hourNPO 12 hours before exam1. Patient drinks first dose of oral contrast (1/2 bottle of Readi-CAT) 1 hour before scan time.

2. Patient drinks 2nd dose of oral contrast (1/2 bottle of Readi-CAT) 30 minutes before scan time.
CT Renal Stone30 minutesNo special dietNo special preparation required
CT Head30 minutesNo special dietNo special preparation required
CT Sinus15 minutesNPO 2 hours before CTNo special preparation required
CT Facial Bones30 minutesNPO 2 hours before CTNo special preparation required
CT Orbits30 minutesNo special dietNo special preparation required
CT Neck30 minutesNPO 2 hours before CTNo special preparation required
CT Chest30 minutesNPO 2 hours before CTNo special preparation required
CT Spine-

C-spine

T-spine

L-S spine		30 minutesNo special dietNo special preparation required
CT Urogram1 hourNPO 2 hours before CTNo special preparation required

Note:    

  • NPO means "Nothing by mouth."
  • Readi-Cat oral contrast may be obtained from the CT Department.
  • The Readi-Cat oral contrast is not iodine-based; it is barium-based.
  • If patient is allergic to iodine or contrast (x-ray dye), notify CT at 828.286.5243.