What Makes Uniontown CT Scans So Superior?
“CT stands for ‘computed tomography,’ which is a form of non-invasive X-ray technology that we regularly use for diagnosing diseases throughout the body,” explains Uniontown Hospital Radiologist Dr. Thomas Spinuzza. “Here at the hospital, we have a Helical CT with capabilities that exceed the CT technology commonly found at many teaching hospitals.” Dr. Spinuzza goes on to explain that Uniontown Hospital’s Helical (or “Spiral”) CT offers much shorter scan times than traditional CT technology. “Each scan takes only three to five minutes,” he says. “Our scanner’s speed also allows the technologist to view the exam in progress and the images coming from the exam at the same time. In other words, we can acquire larger amounts of diagnostic information very quickly and in a way that makes patients much more comfortable.”
How is the Test Performed?
You lie down on a narrow table that slides into the center of the scanner, which resembles a large donut. A dye may be injected into a vein to help certain tissue show up more clearly on the X-rays. As you lie still, the X-ray scanner will rotate around you, taking pictures of your internal organs from a variety of angles. The technician taking the pictures can speak with you and you can speak back. Some CT scans take just minutes. Others take a bit longer.
Is There Any Pain?
Most patients tell us that lying still is their only discomfort. However, since a dye is frequently injected, there may be a minor sting at the injection site, a cool or warm sensation and perhaps a slight metallic taste.
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