CAT Scan (Computerized Tomography)

What is a Cat Scan?

CT Scan is short for Computed Tomography - sometimes referred to as CAT scan. CT's use special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body then uses the computer processed information to show a cross-sectional of body tissues and organs. With the CT Scan, the physician can actually visualize internal organs. Naugatuck Valley Radiological Associates is proud to offer the latest technology available in its field with the Aquillion. This advancement in CT Scanning provides our radiologists, referring physicians, and patients, with the most precise clinical information available.

What are Some Common Uses for CT Scan?

CT Scans are primarily used to visualize the internal organs of the body such as liver, pancreas, and kidneys. This information is helpful in detecting evidence of trauma, blood clots, tumors and obstructions.

Multi-slice CT Scan technology has significantly broadened the range of Cat Scan uses. The increased capabilities include:

• CT Angiography for Stenosis and Aneurysm Evaluation
• Low Dose Lung Cancer Screening
• Virtual Imagining Screening including Colonoscopy
• Renal Stone Evaluation
• Orthopedic Evaluation and more...

What Preparation do I Need for my CT Scan?

If you are scheduled for a CT Scan with IV contrast you should have nothing to eat after midnight or for 4 hours before the appointment. You should drink 3-4 cups ( 8 oz. ) of fluids during the period of 4 hours before the scheduled procedure. You may take medication with water. Contact your physician if you take medication for diabetes.

A history of contrast (e.g. iodine) allergy should be reported to our staff prior to any injections. Our staff will review your medical history with you the day of your exam.

If you are scheduled for a CT of the abdomen/pelvis you will be asked to drink Readi-Cat 60 to 90 minutes before your scheduled appointment.

Also, please dress so no metal is in area of interest.

What is a CT Scan Like?

A CT scan is painless. The procedure is usually very quick, sometimes lasting only a few minutes. This varies based on the type of CT ordered. You will be asked to lie on a table during the study. The CT Scanner contains a large donut-shaped ring that your body will pass through on the moveable table. You may be asked to hold your breath for short periods during the test while the technologist obtains certain images. The scanner will take a complete 360-degree picture of you as you pass through the ring. The images taken are sent directly to the computer to be re-formatted for the radiologists interpretation.

How do I get my Results?

At NVRA, our radiologists will interpret your images promptly and the results will be forwarded to your physician either by phone, fax, and mail and or delivered electronically. Your referring physician will share the results with you.

Where can I Schedule my CT Scan?

At NVRA, CT Scan services are available at:
(click on the facility for more info i.e. Hours, services, directions)

• NVRA @ Pond Place in Prospect
• NVRA @ 1389 West Main St. in Waterbury
• NVRA @ 500 Chase Parkway in Waterbury
• Diagnostic Imaging of Southbury
• NVRA @ 305 Church St. in Naugatuck