Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

Welcome to United Regional's imaging services. We offer a variety of tools to help diagnose internal conditions accurately. Our dedicated team is here to support you and ensure your comfort and safety during your CT scan.

Computed Tomography (CT/CAT scan) is an imaging procedure using x-rays and computers to produce images (called slices) of the body. 

CT scans produce images from bones to blood vessels. These images are more detailed than standard x-rays and can create 3-D images through advanced technology.

CT scans may be done with or without contrast. Contrast is a substance taken by mouth or injected into an intravenous (IV) line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. Contrast exams may require you to fast for a certain period of time before the procedure. Your doctor will notify you of this prior to the procedure.

• High-resolution computed tomography
  • High-resolution computed tomography uses very thin slices (less than one-tenth of an inch) to provide greater detail in certain conditions, such as lung disease.
• Helical or spiral computed tomography
  • During helical or spiral computed tomography, both the patient and the x-ray beam move continuously, with the x-ray beam circling the patient. The images are obtained much more quickly than with standard CT scans, resulting in greater resolution and contrast, thus providing more detailed information.
• Ultrafast computed tomography (also called electron beam computed tomography)
  • Ultrafast computed tomography produces images very rapidly, creating a type of “movie” of moving parts of the body, such as the chambers and valves of the heart. This scan may be used to obtain information about calcium build-up inside the coronary arteries of the heart.
• Computed tomographic angiography (CTA)
  • Computed tomographic angiography (CTA) uses CT technology rather than standard x-rays or fluoroscopy to obtain images of blood vessels, such as the coronary arteries of the heart.
• Combined computed tomography and positron emission tomography (PET/CT)
  • The combination of computed tomography and positron emission tomography technologies into a single machine is referred to as PET/CT. PET/CT combines the ability of CT to provide detailed anatomy with the ability of PET to show cell function and metabolism, offering greater accuracy in the diagnosis and treatment of certain types of diseases, particularly cancer. PET/CT may also be used to evaluate epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and coronary artery disease.

Our expert and caring staff are dedicated to making you comfortable throughout the process which requires still and quiet for upwards of 20 minutes. If you are claustrophobic or tend to become anxious easily, tell your doctor ahead of time, as he or she may prescribe a mild sedative for you before the procedure to make you more comfortable. 

As another layer of convenience, United Regional offers CT scanning at two convenient locations, ensuring that you receive the care you need close to home: United Regional Health Care System and United Regional Physician Group, Barnett Road Medical Building.