CT Scan

A computerized tomography (CT) is a safe, noninvasive imaging test to diagnose injury and disease.THINK Neurology for Kids has on-campus CT scans at The Woodlands, Katy, and Sugar Land, Texas locations. Getting a CT scan for the first time can be stressful for kids, but the expert practitioners at THINK Neurology for Kids have the training to make it a calm experience. If your child needs a CT scan, make an appointment today at THINK Neurology for Kids or book online.

What does a CT scan show?

A computerized tomography (CT) scan is a three-dimensional imaging test that can target different parts of the body, from the head to the abdomen to the legs. 

If THINK Neurology for Kids thinks your child may have an internal injury or disease, a CT scan helps with visualization. Common reasons for a CT scan include:

• Bone fracture
• Dizziness
• Seizures
• Infection
• Cancer
• Tumor
• Internal bleeding
• Frequent headaches

A magnetic resonance imaging test (MRI) may also be used if a CT scan is not suitable for a specific reason.

What is the preparation for a CT scan?

For a CT scan, THINK Neurology for Kids recommends your child not eat for a couple of hours beforehand. This ensures that the imaging is more clear. Before entering the scanner, your child puts on a hospital gown and takes off metal accessories like jewelry or glasses.

Depending on the purpose of the CT scan, your child may need to drink contrast material. This special dye highlights the part of the body that the scan is targeting. This may be administered by:

• Mouth
• Injection
• Enema

Remember that the CT scan is a noninvasive procedure and shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. The staff at THINK Neurology for Kids has the training to make your child as comfortable as possible during the procedure.

What happens during a CT scan procedure?

After your child changes into a hospital gown, removes all metal accessories, and takes the contrast fluid, they’re ready for the CT scan. A practitioner guides your child through all steps of the process. Your child lies down on a table and gently enters the tunnel-like machine.

As the machine takes pictures, your child might hear a clicking or buzzing noises. If your child feels nervous, talk to the attendant beforehand. It is important for most of the CT scan that your child stays still in order to get the best pictures. 

However, your child is able to talk to the attendant if needed during the procedure if they feel uncomfortable.

If you’re looking for an expert provider to provide CT scans onsite for children, call THINK Neurology for Kids today to schedule an appointment or book online.