CT Scan of the Internal Auditory (Ear) Canal (IAC)
Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT or CAT) of your internal auditory canal. This computer tomography technology, called cross-sectional imaging, allows the radiologist to look at different levels, or slices, of the skull bones leading from the ear using a rotating X-ray beam. In looking at these slices, the radiologist is able to assess skull bones for injury, infection, fluid levels and abnormalities. Our team of expert physicians, nurses and technologists is led by Barry Pressman, MD, Chief, Neuroradiology and Head and Neck Radiology.
Before Arriving for Your Procedure
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.
Blood tests may also be required prior to the administration of contrast materials.
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.
After Arriving
A radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history.
If you are receiving contrast, a nurse or technologist will insert a small IV in your arm.
You must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam.
During Your Procedure
This procedure is done in two positions.
For both positions, the head is positioned in a holder, and the patient is required to hold very still.
For the first position, patients lie on their backs with arms at the sides.
For the second position, the patient lies on their stomach with the head resting on the chin. Arms are positioned at the sides.
Only the patient's head is covered by the scanner, and the scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing the patient to see out.
This procedure usually takes approximately 30 minutes.
After Your Procedure
There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.
If you received an injection of contrast dye, you should drink plenty of liquid to help flush it out of your system.
Your study will be read by an imaging physician who specializes in the interpretation of CT scans. The results will be 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.
Parking Information
Valet parking is available in front of the Imaging center from 7:30am-5:00pm.
For self parking, please enter parking lot P4, located at the corner of San Vicente Blvd. and 3rd Street. The entrance is on San Vicente Blvd.
If you are arriving after 5:00pm, please park in parking lot P1, located off of George Burns Rd. between Beverly Blvd. and Alden Dr. The entrance is off of George Burns Rd.
Partially validated parking at a cost of $4.00 is provided to our imaging patients for valet and self parking in the lots mentioned above.
Please Note: We do not validate for parking lots in the Medical Office Towers located at 8631 and 8635 W. 3rd St.
