Specialties & Services

CT Scan

Computed tomography (CT) scans highlight the finer details of organs, bones, blood vessels, and soft tissue. BJC HealthCare provides a reliable and comfortable CT scan experience, quickly producing detailed images to answer important questions about your health.

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Why choose us for CT scans?

BJC HealthCare’s team of highly skilled radiology technologists carry out your scan, and board-certified radiologists interpret the results. Together, we perform more than 100,000 CT exams per year. This volume leads to precise imaging that helps your care team deliver the outstanding care you deserve.

With us, you can expect:

  • Advanced technology: We use the most sophisticated CT technology, allowing us to take higher-resolution images and more detailed pictures to make more accurate diagnoses. Results are often available to our radiologists within seconds, ensuring timely interpretations.
  • Rapid access: We expedite your care when there’s an emergency, such as a traumatic injury or suspected stroke. Experts have easy access to CT scanners, saving precious time so you can start treatments sooner.
  • Comfort: Traditional CT scans be uncomfortable for adults and young children. For larger adults, Barnes-Jewish Hospital’s large bore CT scanners have extra space for those with larger bodies.

What is a CT scan and how can it help me?

A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test. It's done with X-rays and a computer. First, a series of X-rays are taken from different angles around your body. Then the images are processed by a computer. The computer makes them into cross-section images called slices. The result is a detailed set of images. They can show problems with soft tissues, organs, blood vessels, and bones.

Technician preparing woman for CT scan.

Tell the technologist

The technologist is the person who does your scan. Make sure to tell them if you:

  • Ever had a reaction to contrast dye
  • Have kidney problems
  • Take diabetes medicine
  • Are pregnant or think you may be
  • Ate or drank anything before the test

Before your test

  • Follow any directions you’re given for not eating or drinking before the test.
  • You may have to drink contrast material before the test. This depends on the type of test you will have. Your provider or the facility will give it to you if needed.
  • Arrive on time for the scan.
  • When you arrive, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown. Remove all metal near the part of your body that will be scanned. This includes jewelry, glasses, and dentures. You may need to remove your bra if it has a metal underwire.

Tell the healthcare team:

  • If you are pregnant or think you may be
  • If you have ever had a reaction to contrast dye. You may need to take medicine before your scan.
  • If you have a history of kidney disease. You may not be able to have IV (intravenous) contrast dye if your kidneys aren't working well.
  • All the medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines. It also includes vitamins, herbs, and other supplements. Ask if it's OK to take them before the test.

During your test

  • You may be given contrast material through an IV line, enema, or by mouth. If you have it through an IV, you may feel warm or flushed. You may have a metallic taste in your mouth. Or you may feel the need to pee. These are normal side effects. They should go away quickly.
  • Tell the technologist if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in the throat, or a feeling that your heart is racing (palpitations).
  • You will lie on a scanner table. The table slides into the CT scanner.
  • The technologist will operate the scanner from a control room. They will be able to hear you and speak to you.
  • The technologist will ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during your scan.

After your test

  • You can go back to your normal diet and activities right away.
  • Any contrast dye will pass naturally through your body within 1 to 2 days.
  • Before leaving, you may need to wait while your images are being reviewed. Your healthcare provider will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up appointment or over the phone.

What can I expect from my CT scan?

You lie on a table that we slide into the CT scanner. The scanner is a donut-shaped tube that makes a humming sound as the X-ray scanner rotates. The tight space and noise can be unsettling to some people. Sedatives are available to help you relax. Patients with obesity have the option of using one of our large bore scanners, which offer additional space.

Here is additional information about what to expect:

  • CT exams for children: Bring a favorite soft toy or blanket for additional comfort during your child’s CT scan.
  • Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Sometimes it’s necessary to change into a hospital gown.
  • Food, drink and medications: Take medications as you usually do unless our team says not to. Do not eat or drink anything for two hours before your CT exam.
  • Jewelry: Do not wear jewelry during your scan. It’s best to leave valuables at home to keep them safe.
  • Metal objects: It’s essential to remove metal objects before the scan. These include eyeglasses, dentures, hearing aids and hairpins.
  • Pregnancy: If you might be pregnant, please let us know so we can take steps to protect your baby.
  • Billing: You will receive two bills — one from the facility where you received your scan and the other from the radiologist who reads the results. Check with your insurance for specific billing charges to expect.

Is a CT scan right for me?

A computed tomography scan may be right for you if your care team is looking to confirm or rule out:

  • Gastrointestinal disorders, which may include inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome
  • Heart diseases, such as congenital heart issues and narrowed arteries
  • Stroke, including whether it’s due to a disruption in blood supply (ischemic) or bleeding into the brain (hemorrhagic)
  • Orthopedic concerns, like arthritis, torn ligaments or joint infections
  • Traumatic injuries, such as internal bleeding
  • Tumors or cancer, including the location, size and shape of the growth

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