CT Scan

A computerized tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test that helps diagnose conditions. It’s a noninvasive test that uses X-ray technology to create cross-sectional images of your body. St. Michael's Elite Hospital is a state-of-the-art emergency room and hospital in Sugar Land, Texas. The team of board-certified emergency room physicians orders a CT scan to quickly diagnose and treat emergency medical conditions. For quick, safe, and effective care, call the hospital or walk right in. St. Michael's Elite Hospital guarantees a wait time of five minutes or less. 

What is a CT scan?

A CT scan is a type of X-ray that shows body parts in slices. During a CT scan, you lie on a table that slides into the scanning machine. The scanner then rotates an X-ray beam around your body to generate the images.

The scanner sends the information to a computer, translating it into cross-sectional images of your body, including your bones, blood vessels, and soft tissue. The computer stacks the cross-sectional images to create a 3D picture of the area. 

The images created by a CT scan provide more details than a traditional X-ray. 

The team at St. Michael's Elite Hospital may also inject a contrast medium during your CT scan to create a more distinct image of the tissue under examination. 

Who needs a CT scan?

Your emergency room physician at St. Michael's Elite Hospital explains in detail why you need a CT scan during your visit. They may recommend the diagnostic test to:

• Diagnose a bone or muscle condition
• Find internal injuries
• Look for internal bleeding
• Evaluate various parts of your body to confirm or rule out a diagnosis

The team may also request a CT scan to determine the best treatment for managing your condition. 

What happens during a CT scan?

A CT scan at St. Michael's Elite Hospital takes 10-30 minutes. A certified radiology technician performs your CT scan. 

You need to remove all jewelry and dental appliances before a CT scan. Your physician also needs to know if you have any artificial devices, such as a knee replacement or pacemaker, before undergoing the scan. 

During the CT scan, you lie on the exam table, and the technician moves you into the scanner. The X-ray camera rotates around your body to get the requested images. You may hear a whirring or buzzing sound during the scan. 

How long do results from a CT scan take?

The team at St. Michael's Elite Hospital includes a radiologist who’s on standby 24 hours a day. After you complete your CT scan, the team electronically sends the images to the radiologist, who evaluates the images and writes a report.

The team receives the results of your CT scan within 30 minutes and discusses their findings with you, as well as their recommendations, which may include specific treatments or additional testing.For immediate emergency care that’s better than the traditional hospital ER, call St. Michael's Elite Hospital. Walk-ins are welcome.