Preparing for Your Procedure

You can schedule your appointment by calling 609-653-4600. Please have your doctor's prescription available when you call. Inform the scheduler if you have a history of an iodine allergy. It may be necessary for you to take an allergy prep prior to your exam.

If you are having a CT scan of your abdomen or pelvis, you may be asked to pick up a barium prep prior to your study. You will need to bring your prescription and a list of your current medications (prescription and over the counter). You may pick up the prep in the hospital's diagnostic imaging department Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. If you can not make it during those hours, you can make arrangements with CT supervisor by calling 653-3555. If an IV contrast material will be used for your exam, you may be asked not to eat anything for four hours beforehand. You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam. Try to avoid wearing metal objects including jewelry and hairpins. You may be asked to remove eyeglasses, hearing aids or removable dental work just prior to your exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to stop any of my medications before having my test?

Having a CT does not require you to stop any medication prior to your exam. However, if your medicine needs to be taken with food, we may ask you to have liquids only.

Does my diabetic medication interfere with the test?

If you take glucophage, or any form of metformin, you may be asked to hold your glucophage for 48 hours after a contrast injection. You will need to have lab work done prior to restarting. The technologist or radiology nurse will give you specific instructions.

What if I am allergic to shellfish or IV contrast?

A shellfish allergy is no longer considered an indicator for an allergy to IV contrast. If you have had a previous reaction to iodinated contrast or X-ray dye, your doctor should provide you with a prescription for an allergy prep. This will be taken prior to your exam. If there are any questions regarding the prep, please call the CT department at 609-653-3719 or the radiology nursing department at 609-653-3437. To learn about Shore and Advanced Radiology Solutions, or to schedule your appointment, call 609-653-4600.