How Long Does a CT Scan Take? 7 Proven Facts for Fast, Safe Results

introduction to how long does a ct scan take

Definitions

A CT scan, short for computed tomography scan, is a type of medical imaging exam. A CT scan uses various x-rays and computer technology to produce detailed images of the inside of your body. Doctors often recommend CT scans because they can quickly and accurately identify injuries, diseases, and internal problems in the body.

Reasons for a CT scan

Doctors may suggest a CT scan exam in order to:

Identify internal bleeding or fracture
Diagnose tumors or infections
Help guide surgery or biopsy
Evaluate the heart, lungs, or abdominal structures
Track the progress of treatment

A CT scan is a quick, reliable, and established way to produce a detailed view of organs, bones, and tissues.

CT Scan Type	Average Duration	With Contrast Dye	Purpose	Notes
Head CT	5 minutes	10–15 minutes	Detect injury, stroke, bleeding	Fastest CT scan type
Chest CT	10–15 minutes	20 minutes	Check lungs, heart, infections	May require breath-holding
Abdomen CT	15–25 minutes	25–35 minutes	Detect organ issues, tumors, pain causes	Contrast often used
Pelvis CT	15–25 minutes	25–35 minutes	Diagnose urinary or reproductive issues	May combine with abdomen CT
Abdomen and Pelvis CT	20–30 minutes	30–40 minutes	Full digestive or urinary system scan	Most common scan combo
Spine CT	10–20 minutes	20–30 minutes	Examine spinal cord, discs, injuries	Requires full stillness
Sinus CT	5–10 minutes	10–15 minutes	Check sinus infection or blockage	Simple and quick
Full Body CT	30–60 minutes	45–75 minutes	Cancer screening or trauma scan	Longest and most detailed
Cardiac CT (Heart)	10–20 minutes	20–30 minutes	Check heart arteries and function	May need beta-blockers
CT Angiography	15–30 minutes	25–45 minutes	View blood vessels and blood flow	Always uses contrast

What to expect during a CT scan

You will change into a hospital gown
You will lie on a narrow table that will slide into an opening in the CT scanner
The scanner will circle around your body as it collects images from multiple angles using x-rays
A computer will combine the images into a three-dimensional picture
A CT scan is painless, quick, and reliable. You will just need to remain still for good images.

How Much Time Does a CT Scan Require?

Typically, a CT scan lasts between 10-30 minutes overall. The actual time for scanning usually lasts less than 5 minutes itself, but additional time is needed for prep, instructions, and viewing images.

CT of Abdomen and Pelvis: 15 to 30 minutes. If contrast dye is used it will add an additional 10min. for prep.

CT of Chest: 10 to 15 minutes. CT scans routinely help check for possible lung problems or infection or possible heart problems (excluded CT of abdomen).

CT of Head: One of the quickest scans, generally around 5 minutes total. CT scan of head is typically used for stroke or injury diagnosis or headache diagnosis.

Full Body CT scan- 30 to 60 minutes depending on which scans area performed & if contrast is used.

Factors that impact the length of time for CT scan to complete are:

The body part scanned (larger area takes longer), if the contrast dye is used (adds prep & recovering time), & movement (not moving through out the scan reduces length of time & improves quality of the images). Emergency CT scan will incur less time than scheduled scans depending on use of contrast dye. Also new equipment can take less time for completing images than older equipment.

What to know before you get a CT Scan.

• You may be told not o eat or drink for several hours.
• You may be asked to remove metal objects such as jewelry or goggles.
• You should inform the technician about allergies, pregnancy or if you think your pregnant.
• If contrast is used, you may be provided contrast by mouth or injection.
  Preparing for your CT is uncomplicated and safe, and should be simple to follow.

What You can Expect During Your Scan

You will be positioned on a table that will slide slowly into the scanner while you lie flat.

You may hear some soft whirling noises.

A technician will monitor you from another room.

You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.

The scan is quick and smooth, and most patients do not experience any discomfort.

What to Expect After Your Scan

If you have no adverse effects, you can go back to regular activities right away.

If you are given contrast, you should drink water to help flush it out.

A radiologist will review the information.

The analysis can take a while, but you will receive an official report to take to your doctor once the report is complete.

How Long Until the Results Are Available Following Your CT Scan?

Results are generally ready in 24 to 48 hours.

In an emergency situation, your report is usually generated in a couple of minutes.

If your report is extensive or you have multiple scans, it could take up to 3 days.

CT scan safety and precautions

The radiation from a CT scan is low-dose radiation, which is less than the limits for safe medical exams.

If you are pregnant, please let your doctor know prior to the exam.

Please remember to follow ALL instructions from the technician.

Drink water if you get contrast dye.

The CT scanner you will use is a modern, safe, reliable and accurate machine.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

You should reach out to your healthcare provider if you:

Experience any allergic reaction subsequent to the contrast dye

Notice any unusual symptoms

Have trouble understanding your results

The healthcare provider will provide their professional clinical perspective and explain the implications of your imaging during your treatment.

Key Points

Most CT scans are completed in 10 to 30 minutes.

The CT scan itself will only take a couple of minutes.

There will be time set aside for preparation and recovery after the scan, which will add to your appointment.

Most results will be available in 1 to 2 days.

CT scans are considered safe, consistent, and trustworthy.

CT scans are some of the fastest, most detailed imaging studies available today. They also provide the information doctors need to truly diagnose and appropriately treat you.