Preparation for CT scanning

Bring the following diagnostic information with you: ultrasonography results, previous CT or MRI results, medical documents, hospital documents (any document justifying need for X-ray).

In case of CT with IV contrast, a patient must have the results of biochemical blood assay - urea (N2.58.3 mmol/L) and creatinine (N50-115 µmol/L). In case of elevated values, examination with contrast is not conducted.

CT of abdominal cavity and retroperitoneum must be conducted before X-ray of digestive tract with barium swallow or in a week.

Preparation for CT scanning:

In case of intact (non-contrast) CT, no special preparation is required.

CT of abdominal organs

Fasting is required (at least 3 hours after a meal); small drinks are allowed.

Allowed: tea, water, prescribed medication.

CT in case of pancreatitis

Fasting is required (at least 5-6 hours after a meal). 0.5L of water orally before the beginning of examination.

CT of kidneys, adrenal glands or urinary tracts

Fasting is required (at least 3 hours after a meal).

In the hour before the examination it is required to drink approx. 1L of still water. Full urinary bladder — do not urinate for 30 minutes before the appointment.

CT-coronography (heart CT)

Fasting is required Examination is conducted fasting (at least 3 hours after a meal); small drinks like tea, water are allowed. Coffee is not allowed on the day of examination.

Before examination of heart and coronary arteries, it is prohibited to take stimulating medications stimulating potency (Sildenafil (Viagra) or Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra).

Before examination, no medications increasing that increase the heart rate (caffeine, atropine, dimethylxanthine, alcohol beverages, smoking) are allowed.

If you take beta blockers, no cancellation of medications is required (take them with you).

Ask your doctor whether you may take beta blockers. If the heart rate is more than 60 beats per minute, you will have to take beta blocker to slow your heart down.

Before contrast administration, nitrates (Nitrolingual-Spray, Nitrospray, Nitromint, Isoket spray) are used for expansion of coronary arteries.