The most highly advanced diagnostic equipment for detailed, accurate CT scans

A computed tomography (or CT) scan combines a series of x-rays with computerized analysis to make a cross-sectional image or picture, frequently described as a “slice.” CT scans provide detailed images of many parts of the body, including bones, muscles, fat and organs, and can be performed on the head, neck, pelvis, abdomen, spine and extremities. CT scans typically provide more detail than traditional x-rays. 

As the home of Genesee County’s first 64-slice CT scanner, Hurley Medical Center provides superior service and state-of-the-art technology. Our radiologists will provide complete written report to your physician, who will then review the results with you.

About the CT scan procedure

For many CT procedures, you will be asked to not eat or drink for several hours prior to the test. (See below for specific preparation instructions for different types of CT scans.)

During the CT scan, you will lie on a table that moves into the middle of a doughnut-shaped machine. As you lie still inside the “doughnut hole,” the x-ray tube moves around inside the doughnut-shaped machine. The procedure usually takes five to 20 minutes. For some procedures, you may be asked to drink a contrast material or receive an x-ray dye injection. Once the pictures have been reviewed, the procedure is complete.

If you are a woman of childbearing age and think you might be pregnant, please tell the technologist prior to the procedure.

Special instructions for specific CT scans:

Abdominal CT only: 
If you are going to have a CT scan of the abdominal area, you should have nothing to eat or drink, smoke or chew beginning eight hours prior to the exam. (For example, if your exam is at 8am, do not have anything to eat, drink, smoke or chew after midnight the evening before your procedure.) Arrive at the Radiology Department one hour prior to appointment time to drink the contrast fluid. An injection of dye may be given.

Pelvis CT only: Follow the procedures for an abdominal CT scan, above.

Chest CT:
 You should have nothing to eat or drink, smoke or chew four hours prior to the exam. (For example, if your exam is at noon, do not have anything to eat, drink, smoke or chew after 8:00 a.m. the morning of your procedure.) An injection of dye may be given.

Head CT: You should have nothing to eat or drink, smoke or chew four hours prior to the exam. (For example, if your exam is at noon, do not have anything to eat, drink, smoke or chew after 8:00 a.m. the morning of your procedure.) An injection of dye may be given.

Spine CT: No specific instructions for this exam.