CT Scan

A CT Scan is a 3D X-ray taken by a large machine called a CT (Computed Tomography) Scanner. CT Scanners are used to check for a variety of conditions, from strokes and kidney stones to cancer and broken bones.

We have one CT Scanner at each of our Ajax Pickering and Bowmanville Hospitals and two CT Scanners at our Oshawa Hospital.

What to Expect

• Depending upon your type of scan, you may either be asked to wear a gown and undress to your underwear, or wear loose fitting clothing.
• Women who suspect they may be pregnant should tell their doctor first before having a scan.
• You may be asked to fast (have nothing to eat) before your scan or you may be asked to drink a barium dye or have it injected through an enema.
• If you have any allergies to contrast dye please let your technician know.
• Metal interferes with the workings of a CT Scanner so you will be asked to remove all jewellery and metal fastenings.
• You’ll be asked to lie down on a motorized examination table that will go inside the CT Scanner, which looks like a large donut- like machine.
• Once inside, the CT Scanner will emit a series of narrow beams as it takes a detailed x-ray inside your body.