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CT (Computed Tomography)
A CT (computed tomography) scan is an X-ray exam which takes detailed images of the body. X-ray contrast is used to look at specific organs, tissues and blood vessels. An IV tube with the contrast is injected into a vein or the patient is asked to drink the contrast. This depends on the type of procedure being performed. The CT images are reported by a paediatric radiologist and the results are then sent to the physician.
What to expect
Most CT exams take 15 to 30 minutes depending on the type of procedure, the illness and the age and co-operation of the child.
The CT scanner is a large machine with a hole in the center that mimics a large doughnut. The child will lie on a table that moves through this donut hole and won’t touch the rest of the machine. CT scans are fast and painless, but your child must remain still on the table for long enough to complete the test and prevent images from being blurry.
A nurse will review CT orders and contact you if your child needs sedation or general anesthetic for their CT scan.
Preparation
There are different preparations for each type of CT scan. If your child:
Please follow the sedation preparation guidelines provided by your medical team.
If your child has allergies to radiographic contrast, more preparations may be necessary. Please speak with your primary care provider about contrast allergies.
There are no special preparations to follow.
If your child has allergies to radiographic contrast, more preparations may be necessary. Please speak with your primary care provider about contrast allergies.
For CT exams requiring a general anesthetic, the patient must fast for up to eight hours. See a list of guidelines for fasting before general anesthetic.
- 2 hours for water/apple juice (CLEAR fluids)
- 4 hours for breast milk
- 6 hours for nonhuman milk (i.e. cow, goat, soy) & infant formula
- 8 hours for solids
Alternatives to sedation
A “Feed & Sleep” exam is a possible alternative to general anesthetic. Your child will be hungry and active for several hours before the CT scan. Before the scan, a technologist will instruct you to feed your child and help them fall asleep. You will then bring your child to the CT room where the technologist will position them for the exam.
Support
Child Life specialists are available from Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to help prepare and support your child during the scan. A child life specialist can be present at your child's appointment to explain the process to your child and help them adjust to the hospital experience.
If you are pregnant, you will not be allowed to stay in the CT room with your child. Please bring someone else with you who can stay with your child during the test, if needed.