Computed Tomography (CT) in Anchorage

CT at Diagnostic Health Alaska

Diagnostic Health Alaska is conveniently located in Anchorage for all your Computed Tomography (CT) needs. We use advanced technology for high-quality images, and are accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) indicating the highest standard of CT imaging. Our board-certified and sub-specialized musculoskeletal and diagnostic radiologists interpret your CT results for a definitive diagnosis.

How to Prepare for Your CT Appointment:

Prior to arriving for your CT exam:

  • Contact us to find out if you have restrictions on what you can eat and drink before your appointment.

  • If your exam requires intravenous (IV) contrast, please contact us regarding additional testing that may be needed prior to your appointment.

On the day of your CT exam:

Specific instructions will be provided to you based on your scheduled exam type, however general instructions are as follows:
  • If your exam includes oral contrast, do not take anything by mouth, other than water, 6 hours prior to your exam.
  • Please be sure to drink plenty of water.
  • We may ask you to change into a hospital gown for the exam.
  • Please remove all metal, including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures, hairpins, etc.
  • The technologist conducts the CT scan from a control room. You can talk to the technologist throughout the exam.
  • You will lie still on a table as it moves through the scanner. We may ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during the exam.
  • CT exams do require radiation. Following your exam, be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush the contrast from your body.
  • If you answer ‘yes’ to any of the following questions, you will need to have a BUN and Creatinine test result (valid for 30 days) which is used to measure renal function. If you do not have a valid BUN and Creatinine, it can be performed at our center prior to your appointment.
    • Over the age of 60?
    • Diabetic?
    • Taking Metformin or Glucophage?
    • History of renal (kidney) disease?
    • Have you ever had an allergic reaction to IV contrast?
      • If yes, please contact the office immediately to discuss options.
  • If your exam includes IV or oral contrast, do not take anything by mouth, other than water, 6 hours prior to your exam.
  • Please be sure to drink plenty of water.
  • We may ask you to change into a hospital gown for the exam.
  • Please remove all metal, including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures, hairpins, etc.
  • The technologist conducts the CT scan from a control room. You can talk to the technologist throughout the exam.
  • You will lie still on a table as it moves through the scanner. We may ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during the exam.
  • CT exams do require radiation. Following your exam, be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush the contrast from your body.

What to Expect During Your CT Exam

During your CT scan, you will lie on a cushioned table that moves into the scanner. The most important thing to remember is to lie still and relax, as any movement during this time can distort the image. For some studies, you may be asked to hold your breath for up to 20 seconds. You will be able to communicate with your technologist throughout the exam, which typically lasts only a few minutes, depending on which exam(s) your doctor has ordered.

* Depending on your circumstances and when compared to hospital-based medical imaging rates.