CT Scan of the Thoracic Spine
You have been referred by your physician for a CT Scan of your thoracic spine. This cross-sectional imaging technology allows the radiologist to look at different levels or slices of the middle back using a rotating X-ray beam. The radiologist is able to view each slice to assess for injuries, including ruptured disks and other bony abnormalities. Our team of expert physicians, nurses and technologists is led by Cindy Kallman, MD, Chief, CT Scan and Ultrasound.
Before Arriving for Your Procedure
Patients who are diabetic and taking Glucophage will need clearance from their referring physician prior to starting the exam.
If your exam includes an IV injection of a contrast dye, you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything for 4 hours prior to your exam. Blood tests may also be required prior to the administration of contrast materials. Not all scans use a contrast dye. The dye improves the image quality by highlighting certain structures, such as arteries or the colon and making them more visible on the scan.
Diabetic patients and those with allergies must inform the radiology staff and may need clearance from their doctor before the exam.
Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home and wear comfortable clothing.
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
While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
If contrast dye is being used, it will be injected through your IV.
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.
Most often, you will be asked to lie flat on your back with your arms positioned above your head.
The table you are on will slide into the scanner. A portion of the body is covered by the scanner, and the scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing the patient to see out.
The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
You will be asked to hold very still and at times to hold your breath.
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.
To request copies of your pictures on a PC-compatible CD, call (310) 423-8000. To request a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000.
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.
