Before Your Scan: Preparation Instructions

A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth scan and the best possible images. Please follow the steps below.

Fasting (NPO)

Do NOT eat or drink for 3 hours before your appointment.

Hydration

Increase your fluid intake for the 12 hours leading up to your scan. Drink extra water throughout the day prior.

What to Wear

Loose, comfortable clothing — no metal zippers, snaps, or underwire. You may be asked to change into a gown.

Medications

Take your regular medications as prescribed unless your urologist or the imaging team has instructed otherwise.

Allergies

Notify our staff of any allergies, especially to contrast dye, iodine, shellfish, or any prior CT reactions.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Scan

When you arrive, staff will confirm your identity and complete a brief safety screening. Here is what happens next:

  • You will be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, hearing aids, and any metal objects.
  • You will lie on a padded table that slides slowly through the CT scanner — a large, donut-shaped machine.
  • You may be asked to hold your breath briefly during certain phases to improve image quality.
  • If you are receiving a CT Urogram or a CT with contrast, a small IV will be placed in your arm to administer the contrast dye. A warm flushed sensation and a brief metallic taste are normal and pass quickly.
  • The scanner makes humming and clicking sounds during the exam — this is completely normal.
  • You will remain awake throughout. The technologist will be nearby and in communication with you at all times.
  • Women under age 55 will be required to provide a urine sample for a pregnancy test, which will be performed at the facility before the exam.

Important — Tell Us Before Your Scan If You:

  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
  • Have ever had a reaction to IV contrast dye or iodine
  • Have kidney disease or a history of poor kidney function
  • Have difficulty lying flat or experience claustrophobia
  • Have a pacemaker, implanted device, or metal implants

Sharing this information helps us keep you safe and tailor the exam to your needs.

After Your Scan

Once your scan is complete, you may return to all normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions on driving, eating, or returning to work.

If contrast dye was used, drink plenty of water for the rest of the day to help your kidneys flush it from your system. Some people may feel an increased urge to urinate — this is normal and temporary.

Getting Your Results

A radiologist — a physician who specializes in medical imaging — will review your images and send a detailed report to your urologist. Your care team will review the results with you at your follow-up appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my urologist order a CT scan?

CT imaging is the gold standard for evaluating kidney stones, masses or tumors of the kidneys, bladder, or ureters, blood in the urine (hematuria), and a wide range of urologic conditions. It gives the most detailed view of the urinary tract without surgery.

How long does a CT scan take?

The actual scan is usually only a few minutes. Total time at the imaging center — including check-in, IV placement (if contrast is used), and the scan itself — is typically 30–60 minutes.

Is a CT scan safe?

CT scans use a small dose of X-ray radiation. The benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the small risk in nearly all situations. We always use the lowest dose needed to answer the clinical question.

What is contrast dye, and is it safe?

Contrast dye (iodinated contrast) is given through an IV to highlight the urinary tract and blood vessels. It is generally very safe, but tell us about any prior reactions, kidney problems, or shellfish allergy so we can take appropriate precautions.

Will I feel anything during the scan?

The scan itself is painless. If contrast is used, you may feel a brief warm flush throughout your body and notice a metallic taste — both pass within a minute.

When will I get my results?

A radiologist typically reviews your scan within 24–48 hours and sends the report to your urologist. You will go over the findings with your care team at your follow-up visit.

Questions About Your Scan?

If you have questions about your procedure, please contact Advanced Urology. Our team is here to make sure you feel informed and comfortable every step of the way.

  • ✅ Quick, painless, outpatient imaging
  • ✅ Same-day return to normal activities
  • ✅ Detailed view of kidneys, bladder, and ureters
  • ✅ Coordinated follow-up with your urology team
Call 678-344-8900

Advanced Urology — your imaging questions answered, every time.