Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT) of your brain. Cedars-Sinai's S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center has a team of brain imaging specialists, led by Barry D. Pressman, MD.
This technology, called cross-sectional imaging, allows the imaging physician to take highly detailed images and to assess your brain for injury or abnormality, including bleeding, tumors, blood clots or signs of stroke.
Patients who are diabetic and taking Glucophage will need clearance from their ordering physician prior to starting the exam.
If your exam includes an intravenous injection (injection in a vein in your arm), you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything four hours prior to your exam.
Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.
Although we do not anticipate any delay in your scheduled appointment, we recommend that you bring a book, a magazine or a music player to help pass the time while you are waiting.
This exam may include an injection of a contrast material that contains iodine. You must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam.
The radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history and start your IV for the exam.
While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
You will be asked to lie flat on your back. Your arms will be positioned at your sides.
Your head will be placed in a holder and you will be asked to hold very still. Only your head will be covered by the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out.
People who fear small, close places (claustrophobic) usually do not have problems with this procedure.
The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
If contrast (dye) is required, it will be injected through the IV that was placed by the radiology nurse or technologist prior to your exam.
During the injection you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metal taste in your mouth. This is normal.
If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat or swelling of your face you should notify the technologist immediately.
This procedure usually takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.
Your study will be read by a neuro-radiologist (imaging physician) and the results sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.
Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.
To request copies of your pictures on a PC and MAC compatible CD, or a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000 and follow the prompts for your selection.
S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center parking is located at the corner of San Vicente Boulevard and Gracie Allen Drive. Enter off Sherbourne Drive.
You can also park in the Medical Center North Tower off George Burns Road.
Parking is partially validated and validation is available in the lobby of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center. There is a large metal sculpture in the shape of the number "8" in front of the center.
There is a curbside patient drop-off zone on Gracie Allen Drive.
