Premier CT Package

Computed tomography (CT) is an advanced imaging system that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce comprehensive images of specific areas of your body, including your bones, chest, head, joints, lungs, and spine. CT scans give a much more detailed picture than regular X-rays and can identify many conditions that may escape detection on other imaging tests.

Your health care practitioner may order a CT scan to examine your heart to measure the amount of calcified (hard) plaque in the small arteries that supply the heart. This “calcium score” is extensively studied and can be used to help determine your specific risk for a future heart attack. Or a CT scan may be ordered to examine: 

• the small or large bowel  
• the liver, pancreas, or spleen  
• a cause of pain or swelling 
• the kidneys or bladder 
• lymph nodes or blood vessels 

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• Avoid all caffeine products (e.g., coffee, tea, chocolate, Excedrin, decaf coffee, decaf tea) in the 24 hours before your test.
• Take all prescribed medications as directed.
• ORAL CONTRAST: You will need to fast for four hours prior to your appointment and arrive two hours prior to your exam. You will be asked to drink one 500 ml bottle of water, mixed with 10 ml of Omnipaque (an oral contrast solution that helps enhance your images) every 30 minutes over the next 90 minutes. 
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM? 

• You may be asked to change into scrubs. 
• You will be taken to the CT scanner and asked to lie on your back on the bed, which will then be adjusted for correct placement. 
• Your technologist will then set up an intravenous (IV) line for the contrast solution.
• For patients over 50 years of age who are receiving an IV, a creatinine blood test will be required.
• Your technologist will place electrocardiograph (EKG) patches on your chest and arms to watch your heart rate. 
• Your technologist will leave the room to begin your exam, but you will be in direct communication throughout your procedure. 
• Your technologist will take several initial scans, then administer the contrast solution through your IV to enhance your remaining images. 
• You will be asked to hold your breath (for 10-15 seconds) to help obtain specific images. 
• At the end of your exam, your technologist will remove your IV, help you off the bed, and guide you back to your change room. You are then free to leave. 

POST-EXAM INSTRUCTIONS 

It is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to “flush out” the contrast solution. Most of the solution is out of your system within the six hours following your exam and will be completely eliminated within 24 hours. 

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS? 

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor in a timely manner. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.  

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? 

In Calgary, CT exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. The Premier Health Assessment package is $1,725 and includes heart and lung scans, and a diagnostic CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis, with contrast. These scans will occur on separate visits.

We offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the total CT exam.

Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private CT that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.