For Patients

Multi-Slice CT Preparation and Actual Examination

Preparation before the Examination

1.  Remove hairpins, jewellery, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any removable dental work that could obscure the images.  Physicians or clinical staff may ask you allergic history.

2.  Fasting (except for water or oral medications) for at least 4 hours before the examination.  For diabetic patients on anti-diabetic drugs, consult the clinician for the adjustment of the dosage if necessary. 

3.  Female patients are requested to inform our staff  if she is or may be pregnant on the date of examination

4.  Steroid cover is required for patient with history of allergy / asthma.  Instruction will be given by the physician.

5.  For abdominal/pelvis examination, (1) avoid Barium studies of the abdominal region for at least one week prior the appointment; (2) Prepare 800ml water.  Take 200ml of  water at each 30 minutes interval starting 2 hours before the examination.

Experience during the Examination

1.  The exam can last about an hour or less, depending on the preparation required and whether it includes the use of contrast medium.  The scan is painless and noninvasive. 

2.  The contrast medium can highlight specific areas inside the body, resulting in a clearer picture. You may feel warm all over the body during injection.

3.  The examination table will move into and out of the scanner opening.   Only a small part of your body will be inside at any one time.

4.  You will be required to remain still during the exam or may be asked to hold the breath for 10 to 25 seconds to make sure the images would be sharp and clear.   

After the Examination

You can eat immediately, and it is a good idea to drink plenty of fluids in the hours after the exam to help flush contrast material out of the system.