Computed Tomography - CT Scan

A computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging tool that facilitates a unique glance into the patient’s body. The procedure is also well known as CT or CAT scan. The CT scanner consists of an advanced computer system and a rotating X-ray source and detector. The X-ray creates several cross-sectional images of the body. The images are combined by the computer to create a detailed, comprehensive view.

A CT scan uses x-rays to produce an image, while an MRI does not use x-ray technology and instead uses a strong magnetic field and radio frequency to produce an image.

An MRI is also used to view certain soft tissues and highlights the subtle differences between various forms of soft tissue. The MRI is often used to view spinal injuries, brain tumors or tendon and ligament injuries.

Learn more about CT scans at radiologyinfo.org.

Referring a Patient

A completed Computed Tomography (CT) requisition form must be completed by a physician for patients to be referred for a CT at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital. 

Please ensure the requisition form includes the referring physician’s information and signature, patient information and patient’s clinical history.

To obtain a copy of the CT requisition form, visit the referral and consent forms page. Physician offices can fax a patient CT requisition form to 905-883-2096.

What are the benefits and risks of a CT scan?

CT scans produce detailed images of your body to help your doctor make an informed diagnosis, prognosis and treatment plan. Some people are concerned about exposure to radiation during a CT scan. Exposure is minimal and the risk of radiation damage from the scan is extremely low.

How do I receive my appointment date and time?

Please allow three (3) to five (5) business days for a completed requisition form to be reviewed and processed by Mackenzie Health.

A representative from Mackenzie Health Patient Scheduling Office will call the patient to advise:

• Appointment date and time
• Arrival time
• Associated preparations for the test

If you receive a voicemail from the Patient Scheduling Office, please call 905-883-1212 ext. 2004 from Richmond Hill or 905-883-4554 ext. 2004 from Vaughan to complete the pre-registration process.

Online convenience with MyChart

Through MyChart, patients have online access:

• Appointment calendars and details
• Update your patient demographic at any time and e-check in seven days prior to your next appointment
• Receive post-appointment clinical notes and test results

Patients can register for MyChart when scheduling an appointment or can sign up online at mackenziehealth.ca/mychart.

How do I prepare for a CT?

Patients will receive a reminder notification a few days prior to your scheduled appointment. Please ensure you confirm or cancel through the automated system.

At the time of booking, patients will be advised by the Patient Scheduling Office on their arrival time.

• A reminder, Mackenzie Health is a scent-free environment.

Please follow any preparations provided at the point of scheduling:

• Bring your valid health card.
• Patients are advised to not wear any jewellery or other metal objects close to the area being scanned.
• Wear loose-fitted and comfortable clothing.

How long does a CT take?

A CT scan appointment can take anywhere between 15 to 30 minutes depending on the type of scan required.

Please be advised, some CT scans may require patients to receive a contrast material via Intravenous (IV) or orally (a drink). If your scan requires oral contrast, the drink will need approximately 60 minutes to reach the area that will be scanned and as a result, the appointment could take approximately 90 minutes.

What is a contrast material? Are they safe?

Contrast materials are used to better highlight soft tissue and blood vessels. Some CT scans may require a contrast agent to be administered Intravenously (IV) or orally (a drink). They are safe and severe side effects are very uncommon. Possible side effects for contrast material received by IV could include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. You may also notice a taste to the contrast, and/or a sensation similar to urinating. These will pass quickly.

If these side effects persist or become more severe, patients are advised to contact their referring physician.

However, a small number of patients may experience a severe anaphylactic allergic reaction. If you experience more severe symptoms such as hives, red or bluish skin, itching, rapid heartbeat, swelling of throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, agitation or confusion; go to an emergency department immediately.

What do I do if I have an allergy to the contrast material?

If you know you have an allergy to this material, you must inform your doctor before the procedure.

If you have had a previous mild to moderate reaction to contrast in the past, your doctor may suggest using medication prior to your procedure. This will help reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. Speak with your doctor to learn more about allergic reactions to contrast material and the use of medication prior to the procedure.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

CT scans can be performed on a patient while pregnant; however in some cases precautions may be taken to protect you and your baby.

If you are breastfeeding and require iodinated contrast for your CT scan, you can continue breastfeeding after your CT scan. Immediately after the scan, a small amount of contrast may be found in the breast milk. Two hours after the test, this amount will have reduced by half and after 12 hours all traces of the contrast material will be gone. Research suggests it is safe to continue breast feeding right away, however you may choose to wait 12 hours. If you choose to wait, be sure to pump your breasts every 3 hours to keep up your milk supply. For more information, speak with your nurse or lactation consultant to discuss what your best option would be and ways to feed your baby during this time.

What do I do when I arrive at the hospital?

• Patients may park in the Visitors parking lot (North of the hospital) and enter through the D-wing, Emergency Department entrance. Click here for more information on parking services.

• During peak hours, parking can take longer than expected. Please allow yourself extra time to accommodate this. Alternate options are to take public transit or get dropped off by a family member or friend.
• Check in at Patient Registration located in C-Wing Level 2 (between the C-wing, main lobby and D-wing Emergency entrance) using our self-serve kiosks.

Map to Patient Registration:

How do I reschedule my appointment?

Given the high demand for CT scans, a patient who needs to reschedule their appointment may be asked to wait several months for the next available appointment time.

Please provide 48 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. You can cancel your appointments online using MyChart but will need to reschedule by calling the patient scheduling office at 905-883-1212 ext. 2004 from Richmond Hill or 905 832 4554 ext. 2004 From Vaughan.

How can I obtain a copy of my test images?

Test results will typically be sent to your referring physician within five (5) business days. Registrants of MyChart, can access the text portion of their MRI report under the Test Results section on MyChart.

Images of your Computed Tomography (CT) test are available upon request by calling 905-883-1212 ext. 2200 from Richmond Hill or 905-883-1212 ext. 2200 from Vaughan and will be provided on a CD for $10. Health Information Services will advise when your CD and report can be picked up from Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital, B-wing, Level 1, Room 1926. Health Information Services is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. If you would like to pick up a CD on behalf of another person, please bring an authorizing letter, signed by the person.