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CT Scan

A CT Scan for the abdomen and pelvis may require the patient to refrain from eating solid foods for 4 hours prior to the exam but other body parts generally don’t require any special preparation.

Some examinations may require intravenous contrast. If you have asthma, have a previous reaction to IV contrast, or a life threatening reaction to medications, your doctor may want to prescribe a steroid prep, which is as follows:

  • 32 mg Medrol – 12 hours prior to exam time
  • 32 mg Medrol – 2 hours prior to exam time

Instructions for drinking oral contrast:

  • Begin drinking oral contrast 1 hour before your scheduled appointment time.
  • Have both bottles finished drinking by the time you arrive for your C.T. Scan.
  • Do not have anything solid to eat for 4 hours prior to your appointment time.
  • Continue to drink clear liquids (water, apple juice, black coffee, etc.) until you arrive for your appointment.
  • You may take any of your medications as you normally do.

If patient does not pick up oral contrast in advance, the patient will be asked to arrive 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to appointment time.

*Oral contrast is not a laxative, nor should it cause constipation, however, some patients occasionally experience one of these side effects. Drinking plenty of fluids should help correct these symptoms.

Clothing: Please, if possible, wear comfortable clothing with no metal snaps, zippers or buttons. Sport bras with no metal are acceptable. Sweat suits are ideal.

Unaccompanied children: Please do not bring children with you unless they are the patient scheduled for the exam. If adult patients must bring children with them, we do ask that another adult be present to supervise.

If you have any questions you may reach us at: 301.714.4200.