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CT Scans

Advanced Imaging, Delivered with Compassion

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A young woman waits in a hospital lobby, connecting with her husband’s nurse during his CT scan visit, highlighting compassionate care at ThedaCare.

Understanding CT Scans

A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test. It’s done with X-rays and a computer. First, a technologist takes a series of X-rays from different angles throughout your body. Next, a computer processes the images. The computer makes them into cross-section images called slices. The result is a detailed set of images. These can show problems with soft tissues, organs, blood vessels and bones.

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Accredited CT Imaging with Expert Precision

ThedaCare offers high-quality CT scans that meet rigorous national standards for safety, accuracy and patient care.

The following locations are accredited in CT imaging by the American College of Radiology (ACR) — a trusted seal of excellence in diagnostic imaging:

  • ThedaCare Medical Center-Berlin
  • ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano
  • ThedaCare Physicians-Oshkosh
  • Encircle Health in Appleton

ACR accreditation ensures that experienced technologists perform CT scans using advanced equipment, and board-certified radiologists review results. Whether you’re getting a scan for injury, illness or ongoing treatment, you can trust ThedaCare for safe, reliable imaging close to home.

Preparing for Your CT Scan

If applicable, you will receive information specific to your exam in advance. You may take all medications unless specified by your physician or provider. You may need to arrive early to drink water or contrast, or to obtain blood work.

Before your appointment, be sure to tell your care team if you:

  • Have ever had a reaction to contrast dye.
  • Have kidney problems or a history of kidney disease.
  • Take diabetes medications.
  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
  • Have been instructed not to eat or drink before your exam.
  • Take any prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbs or supplements.

Follow any instructions you receive regarding eating or drinking before your exam. Depending on the type of CT scan, you may need to drink contrast material before the procedure.

When you arrive, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown. Remove any metal objects near the area being scanned, including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and clothing with metal components such as underwire bras.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Depending on the type of study ordered, you may need to drink contrast or water and/or receive a contrast injection in your arm through an IV.

If contrast is administered through an IV, you may experience a warm or flushed sensation, a metallic taste in your mouth or the feeling that you need to urinate. These are common side effects and typically pass quickly.

CT scanners are shaped like a large doughnut. You’ll lie on a motorized table that will slide you in and out of the scanner opening. Your technologist may recommend using straps and pillows to help you stay in position. 

While the table moves you in and out of the scanner to take images of the organ or body part of interest, you may hear buzzing, clicking or whirring noises. Your technologist will operate the scanner from a nearby control room and can see, hear and speak with you throughout the exam.

You may need to hold your breath at certain points to avoid movement that could blur the images.

Tell your technologist immediately if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, throat swelling or a racing heartbeat during the exam.

After Your CT Scan

Most patients can return to their normal diet and activities immediately after the exam. If contrast material was used, it will typically pass naturally through your body within one to two days.

CT Scan Results

A board-certified radiologist reviews your images and provides the results to your ordering provider. You’ll be notified of results. If you have MyThedaCare, you can view and reference your results there as well. Your provider will contact you if you require any follow-up.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your ordering provider. We’re here to help and ensure you have the support you need.

To locate your ordering provider in MyThedaCare, simply log in and check the “Visits” or “Test Results” sections, where the provider is typically listed. You may also find this information under “Messages” or “Care Team.”

If you’re still unsure, feel free to send a message through MyThedaCare, and a member of our staff will be happy to assist you further.