CT Scan

An Expert Diagnostic Team at Your Service

A computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure. CT combines X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed, 3-D images. CT scans of internal organs, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels provide greater clarity than conventional X-rays. 

Your doctor may order a CT scan at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton to help them diagnose your health condition or to see if your current treatment is effective. A radiologist interprets the findings of your CT scan to help diagnose problems such as:  

• Cancer 
• Cardiovascular disease
• Infectious disease 
• Musculoskeletal disorder
• Trauma  

Procedures using CT are quick, usually taking less than 30 minutes to complete. Our team takes extreme care during all X-rays to ensure that we expose you to the lowest possible dose of radiation without compromising image quality. 

Our Hours: 

Monday to Friday, 7:00 am – 11:00 pm (outpatient appointments are booked until 6:30 pm) 

Saturday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm 

Preparing for Your Exam

Before Your CT Scan

• Continue to take your usual medications the day of the exam. 
• Don’t eat any solid foods for at least three hours before the exam. You should continue to drink clear liquids. 
• Depending on the type of exam, please arrive 60–90 minutes before the scan to allow time for preparation. Your scheduler will tell you when to arrive. 

During Your CT Scan

You’ll enter the CT room, and the testing team will ask you to lie on an X-ray table. The CT scanner is a large, doughnut-shaped machine that is open on both ends). Your table moves in and out of the scanner while capturing images of your body.  

You need to lie very still during the scan. The testing team may ask you to follow specific breathing instructions, such as holding your breath for several seconds. 

After Your CT Scan

A radiologist reviews the results and discusses them with your doctor. Your doctor will explain the results to you.