CT Scan

What is a CT scan?

A CT (computed tomography), sometimes called CAT scan, uses special X-ray equipment to transmit a pencil or fan-shaped X-ray beam as it rotates 360 degrees around your body. A computer, together with this special X-ray, creates detailed cross-sectional and/or 3D images, or “slices,” of your internal tissues and organs.

Imagine that the body is a loaf of bread, and you are looking at one end of the loaf. As you remove each slice of bread, you can see the entire surface of that slice, from the crust to the center. On CT scan slices, the body is seen in a similar fashion, from your skin to your core. When these slices are added together, you get a 3D picture of your body.

Advantages of the CT scan

CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue — lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels — with great clarity. Our radiologists can literally examine the body one narrow slice at a time. This makes diagnosing health problems such as cancers, cardiovascular disease, infection, trauma, and muscle or bone disorders much easier. Unlike MRI, which uses strong magnets, CT exams can be done even if you have a pacemaker, cardioverter or other metal hardware in your body.

Brochures and Links:

• CT Scan Prep Guidelines & FAQs
• CT Coronary Calcium Scoring FAQs
• Radiation Dose in X-Ray and CT Exams
• My Medical Imaging History
• My Child’s Medical Imaging Record
• What Parents Should Know About CT Scans for Children

How will I get my results?

Your results will be forwarded to your ordering physician within 24 hours of your exam. (Please contact your referring physician to learn when you can expect your results from their office.)

You can also access all results through My Adventist Health.

Location and Hours

Imaging Services
Adventist Health Castle
640 ‘Ulukahiki Street
Kailua, Hawaii 96734

Phone:(808) 263-5166

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

You can schedule an appointment by calling (808) 263-5166 and then pressing 1.