With Banner's advanced technologies and certified radiology team, you’ll receive the most accurate results for any CT scan or CTA your doctor orders.
A computed tomography scan is commonly known as a CT scan. It is an X-ray that views a specific part of your body from various angles and then combines these cross-sectional images to get a complete and comprehensive picture of internal organs, the brain, bones, muscles, blood vessels and nerves. CT scans use ionizing radiation to create detailed images. Sometimes a contrast agent (also called a dye) is injected to enhance whatever the radiologist and your doctor are looking at.
Although you may hear different names, a CAT scan is the same imaging test as a CT scan. CT stands for “computed tomography” and CAT stands for “computed axial tomography.”
CT scans are commonly associated with detecting a stroke or brain injury, but they can be used in many ways to diagnose various medical conditions. CT scans can help:
In some cases, a CT scan with contrast may be recommended to enhance the clarity of the images, particularly when investigating certain conditions.
CT scans are also valuable in evaluating conditions affecting the kidneys, such as kidney disease, by providing detailed images that help assess kidney function and detect abnormalities.
A CT scan is often combined with a PET scan to see how a treatment, such as a cancer treatment, is working. This ensures that you or your loved one is getting the right treatment or procedure at the right time and to the right area of your body. Learn more about PET scans.
CTA stands for computed tomography angiogram. It is a non-invasive procedure that combines a CT scan with the use of a special contrast injected into your bloodstream. An angiogram can also be performed without the use of a CT scan.
A CTA (CT angiogram) is used to look for any abnormalities in blood vessels located in your brain, heart, lungs, kidneys or other areas of your body. It is commonly used to find the location of an aneurysm, examine blocked or narrowed arteries, find blood clots, identify abnormalities in your brain or to evaluate a tumor. CTAs are commonly used to help diagnose a stroke or heart attack (heart disease).
A CT or CTA scan is usually an outpatient procedure, which means it can be done at a Banner Health hospital, clinic or at select Banner Imaging locations. Your doctor will give you further guidance to schedule your procedure.
Find a Banner Imaging location near you that offers CT and CTA scans by selecting “CT/CT Angiography” under “exam type.”
Prior to your exam, it's important to follow these guidelines to ensure accurate results and a smooth procedure:
CT scans and CTAs are painless procedures. You will lie on a motorized table that moves through the CT scanner. You will be asked to remain as still as possible and to hold your breath for short periods of time. You may hear buzzing or whirring noises. Most scans take between 5-30 minutes.
For a CTA, IV contrast will be injected in your arm as part of the scan.
Complications are rare. During or after a CT scan with contrast, some people may experience side effects or allergic reactions to the contrast material. These reactions are uncommon and typically mild. It's important to notify your health care provider if you have a history of allergies or previous reactions to contrast.
Pregnant women should not have a CT scan.
If you have any questions or concerns about your CT scan or CTA, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Whatever your need, your doctor can refer you to one of our conveniently located free-standing imaging centers or one of our hospitals.
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