CT Scan
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CT Scans for Cardiac Calcium Scoring
These CT scans are used to evaluate for the presence, location and extent of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. It will help to identify coronary artery disease in our patients.
When you need answers about your health, a computed tomography (CT) scan at UNC Health Johnston can help. You have access to this advanced diagnostic tool near your community in Smithfield or Clayton.
What is a CT Scan?
A CT scan– also called a CAT scan–uses special X-ray technology to see inside any part of your body from many angles. With the machine’s pictures, doctors create a detailed, 3D image of your bones, organs, blood vessels, or tissues.
Your doctor can use CT scans to diagnose a condition, plan treatment, or monitor how well treatment works.
Accredited, High-Quality Care
Rest assured that UNC Health Johnston has excellent equipment, staff, and safety measures for your CT exam. UNC Health Johnston (Smithfield hospital) and UNC Health Johnston Clayton Ambulatory Imaging hold accreditation in CT by The American College of Radiology (ACR), which sets national standards for imaging tests.
Safe Imaging for Children
Your child will get the lowest possible dose of radiation during a CT scan. UNC Health Johnston is accredited in pediatric CT imaging by the ACR and supports the Image Gently campaign to keep young patients safe.
What to Expect
You’ll lie on a table while it moves into the CT machine. Your technician may ask you to hold your breath sometimes and keep still to get a more accurate picture.
Most CT scans take about 30 minutes.
Contrast Dye
Sometimes, your doctor may need to give you a contrast dye to help the machine see more clearly inside your body. You’ll swallow this material or receive it via injection.
How to Prepare for Your CT Scan
Follow these guidelines:
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Remove jewelry and eyeglasses
- Avoid drinking or eating in the hours before the test if your doctor tells you to
Depending on the part of your body getting the CT scan, you may need to change into a hospital gown to get a more accurate picture.
Preparation Instructions
For more information about your CT scan, download these instructions:
Results
A radiologist will review your images and send a report to your doctor who ordered the test. You’ll get a call from your doctor’s office to discuss the results and next steps.
To check your results in our secure, online patient portal, visit My UNC Chart.
