CT Imaging

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CT Scans at American Health Imaging

A CT scan—also known as a computed tomography scan or CAT scan—is a quick, precise imaging exam that creates slices (pictures) that can be examined one-by-one or combine them to create a single, 3D image. Physicians use them to diagnose injuries and conditions, determine cancer stages, plan procedures and gauge the success of treatments.

How It Works

A CT machine uses a rotating series of X-rays to produce cross-sectional pictures of your body. These pictures appear as “slices” of a specific body part, and they offer much greater detail than traditional, flat X-rays.

Find an American Health Imaging center offering CT appointments near you!

Reasons for CT Imaging

A CT scan is one of the most important tools physicians have to look for injury or disease inside the body. Radiologic technologists can perform many types of CT scan, and your scan will depend on your physician’s orders and the part of your body that needs to be examined.

CT scans help physicians identify a variety of illnesses and injuries, including heart disease, bone and muscle conditions, sinusitis and many types of cancer, among other conditions.

Your physician may order a CT scan to:

Check the condition of your blood vessels and look for signs of cardiovascular disease
Diagnose cancer or determine a cancer’s stage
Find out why you’re having chest pain or difficulty breathing
Look for a fracture or an injury to a muscle or organ
Plan surgery or radiation therapy for cancer

Patient Reviews

At American Health Imaging we provide a welcoming and comforting experience with helpful and friendly staff. See what our patients say.

I lost sleep since finding out I needed an MRI. I am extremely claustrophobic and anxious, just thinking about this appointment gave me massive anxiety. When I arrived to the office it was super clean, the staff was great but NAOMI… She was so patient. Absolutely sweet and cared that I was going through so much. She made me feel so secure. She played the music I wanted and talked me through every little session and also let me know how much time for each one. Thank you so much Naomi. I’ll never forget my experience and because of her, I don’t feel so afraid.

Lynda A.

Excellent experience with the MRI Technologist, the staff and the OPEN MRI machine. For those of us who struggle with claustrophobia we can understand how much it means to be able to get the medical care we need because of the availability of open MRI machines. We also understand the humiliation and frustration of not being able to use a closed MRI. American Health and the excellent team made this possible for me. Thank you so much!!

Leela D.

This place by far was my best imaging experience. I was in and out 10 minutes before my scheduled appointment. The front desk staff were very friendly and efficient, and my technician was super sweet and made me feel very comfortable. I definitely recommend this place for your imaging needs.

Corina W.

This was such an awesome and relaxing visit. Front desk was so nice and polite when I arrived. Christie my ultrasound tech was super helpful and nice explaining everything to me. You can tell she really cared, and I appreciate that. It’s hard to fine genuine care these days in healthcare, so when I experience it I make sure to give a shout out and say Thank you!

Marie B.

Best facility I have ever been to have an MRI or X-Ray done. They got me in when I was in need of a quick appointment in order for a consultation with the orthopedic surgeon to help with the pain and issues in my lower back and both feet and legs. Definitely the place to go for an MRI.

Raymond L.

Talk about professionalism, I must say, American Health Imaging and its personnel it’s top notch! Even when things out of anyone’s control happen, they know how to help and support their patients. On our visit earlier this month, they made sure we were informed of the situation and next steps. And did it all with a smile and positive attitude. We need to appreciate more what they do and THANK them for it. With this said, Thank you!

Cesar G.

Why Choose American Health Imaging

American Health Imaging (AHI) is in-network with 99% of insurance plans for CT scans, offering scans at significantly lower costs compared to hospital-based imaging – up to 60% less. We prioritize your convenience, providing same day and next day appointments. Many of our locations have extended and weekend hours to accommodate your busy schedule. AHI has over 45 convenient, easy-to-access locations in multiple states.

What can a CT scan show?

A CT scan can allow radiologists to see:
• Abscesses
• Aneurysms
• Arteries and veins
• Blood clots
• Bones, including those of the skull
• Compression fractures
• Herniated discs
• Kidney stones
• Muscles and other soft tissues
• Neck masses
• Organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and intestines
• Sinuses
• Spinal cord injuries
• Spinal stenosis
• Tumors, including those of the spine

What should I expect during a CT?

Getting a CT scan takes little time and requires minimal preparation. On the day of your exam, be sure to wear loose-fitting clothing and leave metal objects, such as jewelry, at home, if possible—you’ll be asked to remove any metal objects you bring with you.

You may need to fast for a few hours before your exam if you’ll be undergoing a scan that requires a contrast dye. If your exam does require a contrast dye, you’ll receive it before the exam begins as either a flavorless drink or an injection. A contrast injection helps the radiologist see blood vessels, certain tissues and organs more clearly, while an oral contrast dye helps to produce clearer images of your stomach and bowels.

During the exam, you’ll lie still on a cushioned table that will move into the CT machine, which is a large cylinder that, from the front, looks like a giant doughnut. The machine will rotate around the table to capture image slices. A technologist will monitor the scan from a neighboring room, and you’ll be able to communicate with him or her at all times.

Scans typically take just minutes, and many last only seconds. Your entire exam, including the scan itself, will likely last no more than 30 minutes. Your physician will receive the results of your scan within 24 hours and share them with you.

Why has my doctor ordered a CT scan for me?

If your doctor has ordered a CT scan, they’re likely looking for details that are impossible to spot with traditional X-rays. These details may include small injuries to bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels, any of which may help your doctor determine the underlying causes of your symptoms. Your CT scan may also help to determine the best locations to perform biopsies, detect tumors, or investigate chronic diseases.

What are the advantages of a CT over MRI?

A key advantage of CT is its ability to display the details of bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues in the same image – something much harder to achieve with MRI and traditional X-rays. Given its ability to reveal tumors, CT is also one of the best diagnostic imaging tools for cancer patients. Finally, it is commonly used to diagnose vascular diseases, osteoporosis, and traumatic injuries to internal organs.

In addition to its diagnostic imaging benefits, CT is also faster and cheaper than MRI. It also exposes patients to minimal radiation – less than a single traditional X-ray.

How is a CT scan performed?

Unlike MRI, CT does not require your body to be immersed in an imaging machine. Instead, you’ll lie on a table that slides into a donut-shaped scanner, which will be positioned only around the area of your body being imaged. As you lie still, the scanner will rotate around you, allowing multiple X-ray devices to capture a three-dimensional image.

Why are contrast dyes used in CT scans?

Depending upon the body part being imaged and the specific type of CT scan your doctor has ordered, your exam may require the use of a contrast dye. These dyes contain iodine, which illuminates certain tissues and helps radiologists see finer details in organs, bones, and blood vessels.

If your exam does require a contrast dye, it will be administered through an intravenous injection just before your exam, or as an oral solution several hours prior to your exam. These dyes are safe and well-tested, and our staff will examine your medical history to determine whether there is any risk of allergic reaction.

How long does the procedure take?

The newest CT scanning machines can provide a full-body series of images in as little as 30 seconds. Including preparation time, your entire exam will likely take between 15 and 30 minutes.

How should I prepare for my exam?

Your preparation will depend upon your exam type, medical history and whether or not you will need a contrast dye. In all cases, AHI will provide full instruction prior to your exam, offering you ample time to prepare.

Can I drive home after my CT scan?

Absolutely. CT does not require sedatives, and the process is quick and pain-free. Whether your exam requires a contrast dye or not, you’ll be able to drive home immediately.

How long will it take for my physician to get the results of my CT scan?

The radiologist will review and interpret your CT scan as soon as it’s completed.* Within 24 hours to a few days, your doctor will receive a written report, as well as copies of the images for their own inspection.

How much does a CT scan cost?

CT scan costs vary widely, and the price of an exam may differ by hundreds of dollars between various hospitals and imaging centers. Typically, the cost is a combination of technical and professional fees. Technical fees include the costs of the imaging procedure itself, and professional fees are paid to the radiologists who analyze the results.

Another important factor is the specific type of CT scan being performed. Some types, such as brain scans, involve a more complex process and thorough analysis. Others, such as abdominal scans, are simpler to perform and assess.

Will insurance cover my CT scan?

If you have health insurance and have met your deductible, you may pay as little as 10 to 20 percent of the total bill. If you have not met your deductible or you are uninsured, however, you’ll be responsible for the full amount.

Fortunately, uninsured patients are often able to negotiate self-pay discounts. You may also be able to lower the costs by paying your part in full at the time of service.

How can I reduce my out-of-pocket costs?

Healthcare costs are rising, and when your doctor orders a CT scan, price will likely be one of your first concerns. Few physicians know their hospitals’ prices, however, and even when you call help lines, it can be tough to get a straight answer.

Fortunately, you can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs by shopping for an affordable imaging center. At American Health Imaging, we charge up to 60% less than hospitals and hospital-owned outpatient facilities for the exact same tests. We also work with most major insurers, and we provide competitive self-pay rates for uninsured patients.

If you’re concerned about the costs of your CT scan, MRI, or any other diagnostic imaging exam, you can rest assured we provide the most affordable imaging at the highest quality in the market.

Do you need to schedule a CT?

American Health Imaging offers same-day and next-day appointment options to make getting an imaging scan convenient. Get a referral from your doctor, find the American Health Imaging center closest to you, and then call to schedule an imaging appointment.