CT Scan

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 cross-sectional images (slices) of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside your body. CT scan images provide more-detailed information than plain X-rays do.

When you need a medical test like a CT scan, you may have questions or concerns about the process or your results. Our team treats you as a person, not just another patient. We address your concerns and help you feel calm and comfortable.

Our Locations

View All Locations >

CT Scan at Trinity Health Michigan: Why Choose Us?

Our experienced team performs CT scans on all ages. Highlights of our CT imaging include:

• Skilled staff: Each member of our team has specialized training in performing CT scans for optimal safety and accuracy. Our technologists pay close attention to detail to ensure your pictures are clear. And our board-certified radiologists are highly experienced in reading and interpreting this detailed test.
  
  
• Advanced equipment: Our radiology locations have the latest CT technology that delivers safe, effective results. Our scanners meet or exceed national guidelines for the highest level of detail and lowest amount of radiation exposure.
  
  
• Compassionate care: We focus on your comfort by using cushions and pillows to support your body during the test. Our caring team explains each step, so you know what to expect before, during and after your scan.
  
  
• Convenience: We make it easier to get your medical care by offering several locations across Southeast and West Michigan. You can choose a Trinity Health Michigan imaging center that’s close to your home, work or school.

Types of CT Scans We Provide

Our leading-edge CT scanners create cross-sectional images, giving many views of the same body part. In some cases, you may need a contrast agent (a dye-like substance) to enhance the images. Your contrast agent may be something you take by mouth or get through an intravenous (IV) line.

Our team is skilled in performing all types of CT scans, including:

Abdomen, Chest and Pelvis CT Scans

We perform CT scans of your abdomen (belly), chest and pelvis with and without contrast. This scan helps your provider diagnose or rule out many different conditions, including:

• Appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix)
• Cancerous and benign (noncancerous) tumors or growths
• Hernias
• Infections or injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Kidney or bladder stones
• Liver disease
• Lung disease

Cardiac CT Scan

CT scans can diagnose many heart conditions. We provide the full range of heart CT scans, including:

• Coronary calcium scan: This test checks for a buildup of calcium in your heart’s arteries. It can help your provider diagnose atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) or coronary artery disease (CAD).
• CT angiography (CTA): For this test, our technicians scan the arteries that supply blood to your heart to look for narrowing, aneurysms or blockages.

Extremity CT Scan

We perform CT scans on arms, legs, hands and feet to diagnose or evaluate:

• Fractures and other injuries
• Infections
• Prosthetics
• Surgery results
• Tumors and growths

Head CT Scan

Our team is experienced in performing CT scans of the head and face in both emergency and non-emergent conditions. A CT scan of your head helps your provider diagnose or rule out:

• Aneurysm
• Brain tumors
• Cause of severe headaches or dizziness
• Head injuries
• Intracranial bleeding (bleeding inside the skull)
• Stroke

Spine CT Scan

Our advanced CT scanning equipment provides details about parts of the spine, including:

• Soft tissue (ligaments, muscles and tendons)
• Spinal cord (bundle of nerves that sends messages between the brain and body)
• Vertebrae (stacked, small bones in the spine)
• Intervertebral disks (flat, round cushions that sit between the vertebrae)

How to Prepare for Your CT Scan

Preparation depends on which scan you need and whether your provider requests a contrast agent. Ask your provider if you should stop taking any medications before your test.

If you need a CT contrast agent, you may need to stop eating and drinking four hours before your appointment. Our team gives you the contrast to drink or places an IV in your arm.

To help your appointment go smoothly:

• Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your appointment.
• Leave all jewelry at home.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing with no zippers or buttons.
• Remove hearing aids, dentures and hair accessories.

What to Expect at Your CT Scan

CT scans are noninvasive, painless and typically take less than 20 minutes. Our technologists focus on your comfort throughout testing. In general, you can expect:

• To lay on a padded table during the procedure.
• Your technologist will help you get comfortable with pillows or cushions.
• The padded table will move through a large tube-like machine that takes pictures.
• You will not feel anything.
• After the test, you can usually resume regular activities right away.

Getting Your Results

Our board-certified radiologists interpret your images and send a detailed report to your provider, usually within one to two days. Contact your referring provider if you have not received your results within five days.