General Information CT

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. During the procedure you lie on a motorized table and slide through a ring while detectors and the X-ray tube rotate around you. The CT scan provides detailed information of nearly all parts of the body, and is particularly well suited for the examination of the lungs, the abdominal organs (including the large intestine) and all vessels, especially the coronary arteries. The use of a state-of-the-art 128-line multidetector CT device in our institute means that the examination time is extremely short, and images of the entire body can be made in a few seconds. Due to the latest CT technology we use, the radiation dose is significantly reduced compared to conventional CT devices. So-called ultra low dose protocols are also carried out, which enable precise diagnostics with radiation comparable to a lung x-ray.

Examination procedure 

During the CT examination you are on a comfortable table – mostly on your back – and have to raise your arms and place them next to your head when examining the abdomen or chest. Even patients with „fear of tight spaces“ (claustrophobia) tolerate lying in the wide and short CT opening of the CT device. Before the examination, metal objects (e.g. belts, clothing with zip fasteners) must be removed from the area of ​​the body to be examined. You should not move during the exposure and you will need to hold your breath during certain examinations as directed by the radiographers. The actual CT examination only takes a few minutes, but the exact planning of the examination can take a few minutes beforehand. 

Contrast media

For some questions it is necessary to give you an iodine-containing contrast medium via a venous access. This increases the informative value of the examination and the diagnostic accuracy. The contrast agent can cause a temporary sensation of warmth in the body, which disappears after a few minutes. In extremely rare cases, hypersensitivity reactions can occur, which may require further treatment (antiallergic therapy). In the case of some diseases, intravenous contrast media containing iodine must not be administered, e.g. in the case of known iodine allergy, hyperthyroidism and impaired kidney function. You will be asked about this before the examination. After the scan you should drink lots of fluids to help your kidneys remove the contrast material from your body.

Results and diagnostic imaging report

You will receive the entire data record of your examination on a CD-ROM. You can take this with you approx. 15 to 30 minutes after your examination (exception: heart CT).

You can receive the diagnostic imaging report from us 3 working days after the examination from 2 p.m.
Upon request, we will send your imaging report (and your image data) by post (postage between € 4.00 and € 6.00, depending on the format, to be paid on site).
Alternatively, you have the option of receiving your imaging report by email and SMS code.
If your referring doctor participates in the medical mailbox system, he / she will also automatically receive your findings by email.