CT Chest
Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT or CAT) of your chest. High-resolution CT technology uses a narrow X-ray beam and advanced computer analysis to create very detailed pictures of your body, allowing physicians to see small details that would not be possible with an older, traditional CT. The Cedars-Sinai S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center has a team of specialists who take and interpret chest CTs. Our team of expert physicians, nurses and technologists is led by Cindy Kallman, MD, chief, Body CT.
Before Arriving for Your Exam
- Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home and wear comfortable clothing.
- If your doctor gave you a written order, please bring it with you.
After Arriving
- A radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history.
- Please tell the technologist, radiology nurse and/or doctor of any allergies you may have before your exam.
- If you are having an exam with contrast, an IV will be placed in your arm.
During Your Exam
- While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
- Most often, you will be asked to lie flat on your back with your arms over your head.
- The table you are on will slide you feet first into the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out. The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
- If contrast dye is being used:
- It will be injected through your IV.
- During the injection, you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metal taste in your mouth. This is normal.
- If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat or swelling of your face, please notify the technologist immediately.
- During the scan, you will be asked to hold very still and at times to hold your breath.
- This procedure usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
After Your Exam
- There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.
- If you received an injection of contrast dye, you should drink six to eight glasses of water to flush it out of your system.
- Your study will be read by an imaging doctor who specializes in the interpretation of CT scans. The results will be sent to your doctor, usually within 48 hours.
- Your doctor will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 310-423-8000.
The S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center provides a full range of advanced imaging, both radiology and cardiology, as well as interventional radiology and interventional tumor (oncology) treatments to the greater Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Encino, Mid-Cities, Sherman Oaks, Silver Lake, Studio City, Toluca Lake and West Hollywood.