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Overview
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A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a safe and painless procedure used to capture dramatic cross-sectional images of the body.
Many people think the scanner looks like a giant 'doughnut.' During the scan, the area of interest will be passed through the scanner's doughnut hole, also known as the gantry. Using low dose X-rays, the CT scanner will take pictures of your body from different angles.
Oregon Imaging Centers offers CT scans for all parts of the anatomy. You can review information specific to your scan by selecting from the 'study type' menu in the left column.
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(2) Philips 64 Slice Brilliance CT Scanners
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Calcium screening is most appropriate for men, ages 35 to 70 and women 40 to 70 who have any of these risk factors: family history of heart disease, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or overweight. A physician's order is not necessary for calcium scoring, but we encourage you to ask your doctor to help you determine if calcium screening is appropriate for you.
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your exam time.
For your safety, please notify our scheduling department and technologists:
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During your visit, a patient advocate will show you to the changing area and can assist you if necessary. Our changing rooms offer secure lockers, but we encourage patients to leave valuables at home. Once changed, our patient advocate will guide you to the sub-waiting area where you will find a selection of magazines and newspapers. A staff member will notify you when it is time for your CT Scan and will introduce you to the CT technologist.
Using a CT scanner's X-rays, we will examine the arteries in your heart for hard plaque which is a major contributing factor in heart attacks. The test takes approximately 15 minutes during which you will lie on your back and our technologist will ask you to hold your breath for approximately 20 seconds intervals.
The technologist is specially trained and certified by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists to take care of you during your CT scan. The technologist begins by positioning you on the CT table. Your body may be supported by pillows to hold you still and in the proper position during the scan. As the study proceeds, the table will move slowly into the CT scanner 'doughnut.' Depending on the area of the body we are imaging, the increments of movement may be so small that they are almost undetectable, or you may feel the sensation of motion. CT scan time is typically 10 to 20 minutes.
Some studies will require IV injected contrast agents to help us visualize certain tissue or blood vessels. Some patients describe a metallic taste or tingling sensation right after the injection. This is normal and usually subsides very quickly.
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- A sub-specialized radiologist will interpret your images and prepare a diagnostic report for you and your physician.
- Results are usually made available to your physician in two or three days. If outside comparison studies are required, it may take longer for your results to be made available.
- Your physician will determine how the radiologists' report can be used to develop a treatment plan and speak with you about your results.
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A Cardiac Calcium Scoring study may be ordered by your physician to screen for heart disease. This test allows the radiologist to determine if calcium build up, or plaque, is present on the walls of the arteries of the heart, also known as your coronary arteries. The radiologist will report to your physician on how severe the blockages are. This information will be used to determine an appropriate treatment plan.
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