What will the scan involve?
- Your child will need to remove all jewelry.
- Your CT may require the use of a special dye (contrast). Your child may need to drink this dye and/or have it injected through and IV. This dye helps to identify abnormal areas as the dye passes through the body.
- During the test your child will lie down on a moving table and the table will slide into the scanner. The scanner will move around you and take x-rays. During this test your child’s body is exposed to a small amount of radiation.
How long will it last?
The length of time for this test depends on the type of CT.
- CT of the Abdomen and Pelvis Plain
- Exam time: 30 minutes
- Total visit time: 1 hour
- CT of the Abdomen and Pelvis with Contrast (or with and without Contrast)
- Exam time: 30 minutes
- Total visit time: 3 hours
- CT of the Brain Plain
- Exam time: 30 minutes
- Total visit time: 1 hour
Before the test
- If your child is having a CT with Contrast: Your child may NOT have anything to eat or drink for 4 hours prior to the test. Please inform us if your child has ever had an allergic reaction to any medication, shellfish, or iodine.
- If your child is having a CT without Contrast: No prep is needed
- If you would like for your child to have numbing cream (Emla) to decrease the pain with the IV insertion then please arrive 30 minutes early.
After the test
- Your child may resume his/her normal diet and activities after the test. Encourage extra fluids for a few days to help flush the dye from your child’s system.
- If the test is performed with contrast then you will need to watch for signs of allergic reaction, which include a rash, swelling, itching, or trouble breathing. Please call GI for Kids at 865-546-3998 or bring your child to the Emergency Room if your child experiences any of these symptoms.
- Your child’s test results will be discussed with you at your child’s next follow up appointment at GI for Kids.
