Perfusion CT

Perfusion imaging is done as an adjunct to our routine Computed Tomography examination. Perfusion is used to check the flow of blood to normal tissue and diseased tissue.

Exam Preparation

A CDI representative will call you prior to your appointment to provide you specific instructions, and review health and insurance information.
Bring prior x-rays or scans with you to your exam, if instructed.
Notify a member of CDI’s staff if your are nursing or if there is a chance you could be pregnant or if you are breast feeding.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration.

During the exam – what to expect

You will be given an I.V. in your arm or hand before the exam.
You lie on a cushioned table, and once comfortably positioned, the tabletop moves through a gantry (shaped like a big donut), which houses the x-ray tube and a set of detectors.
In some cases, a special “coil,” a device to hold your head is used to ensure proper alignment.
Non-iodinated contrast will be given to you via a power injector at the beginning of the perfusion sequence. You may feel a cooling sensation as the contrast is injected.
Multiple, low-dose x-rays are passed through the body at different angles. Images are acquired by detectors that measure the x-rays that pass through your body.
The computer processes this information to form an image that the radiologist will review and interpret.

After the exam – what to expect

A radiologist who specializes in a specific area of the body will review your images (i.e., a neuroradiologist will review images of your brain).
The radiologist prepares a detailed diagnostic report to share with your doctor.
Your doctor will consider this information in context of your overall care, and talk with you about the results.

If you have additional questions about your appointment or our services, check out our Frequently Asked Questions or contact your local CDI center.