A computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest is a specialized imaging procedure that utilizes X-rays to create detailed, cross-sectional views of the organs and structures within the thoracic cavity. This process generates “slices” of the body, offering a level of detail beyond a standard X-ray. Proper preparation, particularly concerning attire, is important to ensure the diagnostic images are clear and the procedure is completed efficiently. Following guidelines for clothing helps prevent interference with the imaging technology.
Recommended Clothing for Ease and Comfort
Selecting appropriate clothing for your appointment can simplify the overall experience, even if you are asked to change later. Garments should be loose-fitting and non-restrictive to maximize comfort while you are lying on the examination table. Look for items made from natural, pliable fibers such as cotton, jersey, or fleece.
Opting for tops without thick collars, complex seams, or embroidery is advisable, as these can sometimes cause minor image distortions. For your lower body, choose bottoms that are easy to slide on and off, like simple elastic-waist sweatpants or yoga pants.
Items That Must Be Left at Home or Removed
The most important preparation involves removing anything metallic from the area being scanned. Computed tomography relies on X-ray technology, and metal objects have a high density that absorbs and scatters the X-ray beam intensely. This interaction creates visual anomalies known as artifacts, which appear as bright streaks, blurring, or dark shadows on the resulting images.
These artifacts can obscure small details or large sections of the chest anatomy, making it impossible for the radiologist to accurately interpret the scan. Therefore, it is necessary to remove all common metallic items. Clothing items can contain hidden metal components that must be avoided. Even seemingly minor items like hair clips, pins, or metallic ornamentation on clothing can create significant streaking artifacts if they fall within the scan field.
Items that must be removed include:
- Necklaces, dangling earrings, and any body piercings in or near the chest area.
- Bras with underwire supports or metal clasps.
- Garments with metallic zippers, snaps, or buttons on the front of the shirt.
Gown Protocols and Changing Expectations
Even if you arrive wearing entirely metal-free clothing, you should still anticipate being asked to change into a facility-provided hospital gown. This is a standard procedural step designed to eliminate any remaining doubt about potential artifacts from overlooked clothing components or hidden metal. The gown ensures that the body area being scanned is completely free of any material that could compromise image quality.
Changing into a gown is often a requirement when the procedure involves the injection of intravenous contrast material. The gown allows the technologist quick and easy access to an arm vein to start the IV line for the contrast injection. This dye helps to highlight blood vessels or specific tissues, making them show up more clearly on the final images. You should plan to have a minimal amount of personal items when you arrive, as you will need to secure your valuables in a locker or designated area before the scan.