Why is a contrast medium used?
Depending on the examination, a contrast medium may be administered to aid in evaluation of the area of interest. Most people tolerate the contrast medium without any problems and merely feel flushed for a moment. Since the contrast medium may cause an allergic reaction in some people, you will complete a questionnaire upon arrival at the center. You will be ask if you have ever hade Asthma, HTN, CHF, if you are pregnant or breast feeding, if you have ever had a reaction to shellfish. You will also be asked if you have ever had a reaction to contrast before or a delayed reaction. If you are over 60 or diabetic you will need BUN and Creatinin levels, which evaluates kidney function. We can test for these values very quickly at the center. Should you feel any discomfort during thee exam you should communicate that to the technologist as they can communicate with you throughout the exam. How is the CT Image or CT scan Performed? While you are in the gantry, the CT Scanner is taking extrem
