 Frequently Asked Questions Do I need a prescription...
...or a doctor's order for
a scan? Each state has different laws regarding this
issue. In some states it is mandatory for a doctor to issue a
prescription and in other states you will not need one. For
more information, the Scanning Center will inform you of
whether a prescription is needed or not. For example in
California, no prescription is required to get a scan.
What if i get claustrophobic...
...inside a scanner? EBT and CT scanners are "open top" so
there is no claustrophobia. It's somewhat like a donut. Once
you go through the hole it is open on the other side. EBT and
CT scanners are nothing like an MRI in this regard.
Is there any preparation or...
...contrast needed for
the body scan? No. Some Scan Centers ask women to wear a
wireless bra (sports bra or a camisole).
How long does it take to get...
...the results from a
body scan? At some Scanning Facilities you will sit down
with a physician immediately following your scan. The
physician will then go over images of your scan with you as a
consultation. You will also receive detailed results from a
qualified radiologist in the mail.
Other Scanning
Facilities will mail you your scan results without a
personalized consultation. It all depends on which scanning
center you choose.
Does the doctor give...
...recommendations on what to
do next? If you have a scan at a Scanning Facility which
provides a consultation, a physician may give recommendations.
The physician may answer any questions that you may have
regarding the scan. The doctor may also combine the knowledge
of your scan results with the information you have shared to
provide you with the necessary steps that should be taken
following your scan.
How long are the procedures? Who should have a virtual... .
...colonoscopy? The
virtual volonoscopy may be an appropriate test for those over
the age of 50 who do not have a family history of Colon Cancer
or a past history of polyps. (Or are just too nervous to get
the traditional one done). This procedure is not recommended
for individuals who have a history of colorectal cancer,
Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis. Those individuals
should consult their physician.
Does the scan detect cancer?
The body scan may detect visual abnormalities such as
nodules, masses, cysts or tumors in the lungs as small as a grain of rice, and in
the abdomen as small as an eraser head, or larger. If the scan detects an abnormality,
it is up to you and your personal physician to decide if you should have any further
testing to see whether or not the abnormality is cancerous. The report you will receive
will aid in that decision. Early detection of cancer may improve your chances of
survival. (metabolic abnormalities may be found with a blood test).
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Local Scan Centers near Washington, DC
Is a Body Scan painful...
...or uncomfortable? The
body scan is painless and comfortable. You will be asked to
hold your breath, just a few times. EBT and CT scanners have
an open top and are not claustrophobic.
What areas of the body are...
...covered in a Body
Scan? The Body Scan is from the collar bone to the pelvis
and covers the heart, lungs, abdomen, and the spine. The
specific areas covered in the abdomen are the kidneys, liver,
gall bladder, abdominal aorta, adrenal glands, lymph nodes,
spleen and specific regions in the pelvis. For more information, see
our Body Scan FAQ and Why
get a Body Scan?
What kind of scans are available? What is the difference...
...between the Conventional Colonoscopy and the Virtual
Colonoscopy? Prior to both procedures, bowel preparation is necessary with
a liquid diet/prep kit to cleanse the colon. A traditional conventional colonoscopy
is a procedure where you are sedated and a 5 foot long scope is inserted into your
bottom. Then, the scope is moved throughout the entire length of the colon to look for
polyps.
The virtual colonoscopy may be more
comfortable, convenient and safer than the traditional method. It's safer because
there is no sedation involved. After preparation, the individual is put on the scanning
table. A small barium tip is inserted in to the bottom to gently inflate the colon with
air in order to properly obtain images. Then the individual is scanned on their back
and their stomach. You can immediately choose to go back to work after the procedure. A
follow-up may be necessary depending on the findings.
What is QCT Bone Density Screening?
QCT Bone Density Screening can detect osteoporosis - a silent disease characterized by low
bone mass and progressive deterioration of bone tissue. Fractures can occur in the spine,
wrists, and hips of these individuals. Early osteoporosis can lead to intervention and treatment
to stop progressive bone loss.
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