CDI Miami | Wednesday May 13, 2020

How to Prepare for a CT Scan

If advised to undergo a CT Scan in Miami, it is important to undergo preparations to make the procedure a success.

1. Do Not Eat Anything Solid Within 3 Hours of the Procedure

Solid food consumed within three hours of a CT Scan has the potential to disrupt the exam and fail to provide accurate results. Some tests require the patient to consume a contrast dye that can highlight a specific spot in their bodies, and eating food can disrupt this process. The contrast material may be given by the mouth, injection, or an enema.

The contrast dye can be ingested in the following ways:

By Mouth. If your esophagus or stomach is being scanned, you may need to drink an unpleasant liquid that has a contrast material.

By Injection. A contrast agent can be injected through a vein in the arm so that the images of the gallbladder, urinary tract, liver, and blood vessels appear more clearly in the exam results. 

By Enema. In this scenario, a contrast agent would be inserted into the rectum to get a better view of the intestines. This may make patients feel bloated or uncomfortable. 

2. Wear Comfortable Clothes

One of the best ways to prepare for a CT scan is to wear loose clothes. Tight clothing can negatively affect the scanning procedure. Furthermore, patients should remove any electronic gadgets before the scan, as electronic fields can disrupt the accuracy of the scan. 

About CDI: The Center for Diagnostic Imaging is one of Miami’s leading diagnostic facilities. With over 20 years of experience, CDI has successfully provided the best service and results in digital imaging and patient care.

The center is owned and operated by a team of board-certified physicians and staff determined to be South Florida’s premier imaging series. CDI is dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of the community through the use of the most highly advanced technology and techniques currently available within the imaging industry. As a premier imaging center in Miami, CDI offers CT scans in Miamimammograms in Miami, and MRI in Miami Beach.

For more information on or to set up an appointment with The Center for Diagnostic Imaging, call 1-800-371-0002.