Oral Contrast

Computed tomography (CT) is an advanced imaging system that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce comprehensive images of specific areas of your body, including your bones, chest, head, joints, lungs, and spine. CT scans give a much more detailed picture than regular X-rays and can identify many conditions that may escape detection on other imaging tests.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field to provide very clear images of the body and is often ordered to help diagnose stroke, aneurysms, or multiple sclerosis. Using magnets and radiofrequency waves MRI can help find diseases of the brain, spine, skeleton, abdomen, and soft tissues.

CT and MRI exams are often ordered when more detail is needed based on results of other studies, when the cause of symptoms is unclear during a physical exam or when an asymptomatic patient has increased risk of certain disease. They can be performed on any part of the body.

Contrast is an injectable dye administered intravenously to highlight a specific area of interest, or directly into a joint (arthrogram). It can also be taken orally. Targeted body areas will absorb the contrast dye and will glow on the CT or MRI scan, allowing for a more detailed image. There is a risk of allergic reaction to the contrast agent, so you will be asked about your allergies and other medical conditions when booking your exam.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• Take all prescribed medications as directed.
• Please let us know if you are, or may be, pregnant, or if you’ve had recent surgery.
• Please also inform us if you have metal in your body. Here is a list of metal objects that may be a concern. Your technologist may ask you to remove any metallic objects, which are unsafe near the MRI magnet.
• ABDOMINAL EXAMS: Please have nothing to eat or drink (except water) four hours prior to your exam.
• ENTEROGRAPHY EXAMS: Please have nothing to eat or drink (except water) after midnight prior to your exam.
• For MRI exams with oral contrast, please arrive 90 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time. You will be asked to drink one 500 ml bottle of water, mixed with 10 ml of Omnipaque (an oral contrast solution that helps enhance your images) every 30 minutes over the next 90 minutes. 
• For CT exams with oral contrast, please arrive two hours prior to your scheduled exam time. 
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card. 
• Wear comfortable clothes. 
• Please do not bring children who require supervision. 

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• You may be asked to change into scrubs.
• You will be asked to lie on your back on the bed of the scanner, which will then be adjusted for correct placement.
• If needed, your technologist will then set up an intravenous (IV) line for the contrast solution.
• For patients over 50 years of age who are receiving an IV, a creatinine blood test will be required.
• Your technologist will position you on the cushioned scanner table in the exam suite. We will do our best to make you comfortable.
• For MRI, it can be loud, so you will be provided with headphones or ear plugs to reduce the noise. Eye masks are available upon request for patients who have difficulty relaxing in a confined space. You are also given an emergency call bell to stop the exam, if needed.
• For MRI, a sensor will be positioned around the body part being scanned. The table will then move slowly into the MRI scanner, which is well lit and ventilated.
• Your technologist will leave the room to begin your exam, but you will be in direct communication throughout your procedure.
• Your technologist will take several initial scans, then administer the contrast solution through your IV to enhance your remaining images.
• You will be asked to hold very still, as movement may result in blurring of images. Your technologist will be close by at all times.
• You may be asked to hold your breath for some of the images. Breath holds can last between 5-25 seconds.
• Once we have successfully captured your images, your IV will be removed (if you have one) and you are free to leave.

POST-EXAM INSTRUCTIONS

It is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to “flush out” the contrast solution. Most of the solution is out of your system within the six hours following your exam and will be completely eliminated within 24 hours.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor in a timely manner.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

In Calgary, CT and MRI exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. Prices are per body area. If additional body areas are scheduled within the same appointment, discounts apply. For example, the abdomen is one body area, while the spine is divided into three body areas. We also offer CT Health Assessment packages.

In Saskatchewan, we provide MRIs as a publicly funded, community-based service under contract with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and as a private pay exam. Private MRI services in Saskatchewan are provided in accordance with and under the legislation of the Province of Saskatchewan. Pricing is per body area, similar to Alberta pricing (with similar discounts).

We offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the first exam.

Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private CT or MRI that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.

CT contrast is an additional cost of $125. MRI contrast is $250.