Chest CT – How to Prepare
Once you arrive for your chest CT imaging, you may be asked to change into an examination gown. Metal objects, including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and hairpins, may affect the CT images and should be left at home or removed prior to your exam. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work.
You should inform your radiologist or technologist of all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies. If you have a known allergy to contrast material, or "dye," your doctor may prescribe medications (usually a steroid) to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. These medications generally need to be taken 13 hours prior to administration of contrast material.
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for a few hours beforehand, especially if a contrast material will be used in your exam.
Also inform your radiologist or technologist of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and kidney disease or thyroid problems. Any of these conditions may increase the risk of an unusual adverse effect.
Women should always inform their radiologist or the CT technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant.
Watch the CT - What to Expect Video.
