CT Cervical Spine

A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your body and uses computer processing to create image slices of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissue inside your body. CT scan images provide more detailed information than typical X-rays.

Depending on what your medical provider is looking for, this test may be ordered with or without IV contrast.

What Is Intravenous Contrast (IV) Media?

In order to see the blood vessels and body tissues on the scan, the technologist must inject contrast media into a vein. Some people refer to this as "dye," although it's not like the dye you might use at home. These contrast media are liquid solutions that contain iodine and show up on X-rays. It leaves the body through the kidneys but will not change the color of your urine.

What to Bring

• Your medical provider’s order (Your medical provider may have already sent this to us.)
• Personal ID
• Insurance card
• Medication list and dosages
• Any required screening forms

How to Prepare

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and avoid clothing with zippers, buttons or belts made of metal.
• Please leave valuable jewelry at home.
• If you are pregnant or think you might be, please inform the imaging technologist.
• If you are wearing an on-body medication pump, you should inform the technologist.

What to Expect

• During the exam, you will be placed on a table and positioned inside the center of a large ring-like scanner. The machine makes a minimal amount of noise, and the table moves forward and backward.
• You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the test.
• The study is not painful.
• You may be asked to remove clothing and to wear a gown during your exam.
• You may be asked to remove jewelry, glasses and any metal objects that may interfere with the images.
• Please allow 30 minutes from the time you check in to the completion of the test.

Schedule an Appointment

Call North Oaks Scheduling between 7 am and 5:30 pm.
Hammond: (985) 230-7777
Livingston: (225) 686-4899

If you are a medical provider and need to send an order, please fax it to (985) 230-6781.