General  |   Pain Management Injections  |   MRI  |   CT Scan  |   PET/CT Scan


General

Q1: How long will my exam take?
Exams vary depending on the type of exam performed. To get more detail on the length of your exam, call us at (206) 292-7734.  

Q2: Do I need to bring photo ID to my appointment?
Yes, insurance companies require us to confirm your identity.

Q3: I’ve filled out this paperwork before, do I really need to complete it again?
Frequently, personal details change so we ask patients to complete our paperwork each visit to help us ensure their safety.

Q4: Why do you need my insurance card and/or L&I information when I have already given you this information on the phone?
It's important to capture all the information on your card to help us ensure things go smoothly when we bill your insurance carrier.

Q5: What is in the contrast liquid?
Crystal light and Gastroview; to enhance your scans…

Pain Management Injections

Q6: Does the injection hurt?
The skin numbing medicine will sting and burn for about 30 seconds. After that, most patients only feel pressure. If you feel any discomfort please let the physician know. We are here to help relieve your pain, not increase it.

Q7: What can I do after my procedure?
We will give you a post procedure sheet and go over any specific instructions.  Generally speaking you may resume all medications in 24 hours.  Eating and drinking may be resumed immediately after your procedure.  Physical activities will be discussed and vary per procedure performed.

Q8: When can I get another injection?
We request that you wait at least two weeks between injections. The medicine remains in your system for several weeks and we give the maximum dose at each visit, therefore you do not want too much medicine in your system at the same time.

Q9: When will I see the benefits of the injection?
This varies per injection. Typically the cortisone type of medication will take a few days to start working. Your body has to break down the medication and absorb it into the tissues before you start to notice any anti-inflammatory response.

MRI

Q10: How long will the scan take?
It depends on what body part you're having scanned. A typical MRI is about 35 minutes on the table.

Q11: When will my physician get the report?
It usually takes about 1-2 days for the referring physician to get the films and report. Your physician will contact you with the results.

Q12: Is there radiation used with MRI scans?
MRI uses a magnet and radio frequency to get an image of your body. It does not use ionizing radiation like X-ray.

Q13: Why is the scanner so loud?
The scanner has changing magnetic fields that allow images to be acquired in 3 different planes. The noise is caused by the magnetic fields changing and the radiofrequency being sent to the scanner. The noise, while unpleasant, is completely normal.

Q14: Where will the technologist be while I'm in the scanner?
It depends on what body part The technologist will be just outside and is able to view you in the scanner at all times through a window. The technologist is using the computer outside the room to operate the scanner.

Q15: Can I see the images?
We would be happy to make you a complimentary CD of your images. The technologist does not read the exam and cannot comment on any of the images

Q16: Why do I need to take all my metal off if I'm only having one body part scanned?
The magnets are very powerful. Once you walk into a MRI scan room, you are in the magnetic field. Anything loose in your pocket that contains metal can propel towards the magnet and become dangerous to anyone in the room.

Q17: Why do I need to check in 30 minutes before my table time?
The 30 minutes check in time allows for filling out paperwork, getting changed into a gown, and being interviewed by the technologist before your scan begins.

Q18: What if there is an earthquake?
Seattle Radiologists specifically chose its MRI locations for their safe position within buildings. In the Nordstrom Medical Tower, for example, the middle floors act as a fulcrum and are not as affected by an earthquake. There is a manual handle that we could use to get the patient out of the scanner in an emergency.

CT Scan

Q19: How long will my exam take?
You will be at our office for up to one hour, although your time in the scanning area will be approximately 5-15 minutes.

Q20: What's the difference between CT and MRI?
CT uses X-ray while MRI uses a magnetic field to obtain its images. CT is best for bone and soft tissue whereas MRI is best for nerves and muscle.

Q21: How soon until my doctor gets the results?
Most reports are back to your doctor within 24 hours, but keep in mind it can occasionally take up to 2-3 working days.

Q22: Can I work out after my exam?
Yes, feel free to return to normal activities after your exam.

Q23: How soon before I can eat and drink?
There are no restrictions on eating and drinking after your exam. We encourage you to drink extra fluids, water, juice or tea.

Q24: Why do I have to get an IV?
The IV contains a dye that highlights the arteries, veins and major organs to help doctors interpret the images.

Q25: Why did I have to drink that liquid?
The liquid contains barium which highlights the stomach and bowel to help doctors interpret the images.

Q26: Can the technologist tell me what is on the scan?
The technologist is trained in capturing accurate images. Once the exam is complete, a specialized radiologist will interpret your scan and share the results with your doctor.

Q27: How long do I have to keep the bandage on?
About 20-30 minutes should be adequate to prevent bruising and bleeding.

Q28: How much radiation will I be getting?
It depends on the area being scanned. The dosage varies by patient as the machine is calibrated for each person. If you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor.

Q29: Will I be able to drive home OK?
For most exams there are no driving restrictions. However, if you will be getting a coronary CTA then you will need a driver as you’ll be given additional medication for your heart rate.

Q30: May my family/friend come back with me?
The CT uses X-rays so we prefer family wait outside the scanning area.

Q31: Are my watch, glasses, jewelry, or piercings OK?
Most accessories can be left on as long as we’re not scanning that body part.

Q32: Will I need to remove my shoes?
Shoes may be left on if we’re not scanning feet or ankles.

Q33: Should I empty my pockets? How about my wallet?
Yes, pockets should be emptied. You should take out your wallet as you will be more comfortable lying down. We have lockers available for your personal belongings.

Q34: Will I be able to use the restroom before my exam?
Please ask the technologist. It depends on the type of exam you are having.

Q35: May I have a glass of beer/wine with dinner?
Yes, you can have a glass of beer or wine the evening before your exam as well as after your exam.

Q36: Will I glow in the dark after my exam?
No.

Q37: What color will my urine be?
You will not notice anything abnormal when you empty your bladder. The dye that is injected is clear.

Q38: How long will I need to lie down?
You will be lying down for about 5-15 minutes.

Q39: Is this exam harmful?
There is some radiation that is controlled by equipment and certified technologists. We use the smallest possible dose as well as the smallest possible amount of dye for each patient. The exam itself is not painful. For some exams, there will be an IV required to do the injection.

Q40: Will it be cold in the examination room?
The scanner has its own air conditioner to keep it cool. We provide warm blankets to ensure your comfort. If you feel cold during your exam, let us know and we’ll work to make you more comfortable.

Q41: Are CT exams noisy?
No.

Q42: How experienced are your technologists?
It varies depending on the tech. All our technologists have undergone specialized training, have passed the ARRT and are state licensed.

Q43: Are you affiliated with Swedish Hospital?
No, we are not affiliated with Swedish. We do, however, have doctors who provide services to Swedish Medical Center.

Q44: I’m a large person, how will I know if I’m too large for the machine?
The table limit is 450 pounds. Please let us know if you have any concerns.

Q45: Will something be holding my head?
Yes, there are soft cushions to mold around your head. This is for your comfort and to ensure a quality scan.

Q46: Is there much waiting around prior to the exam?
We do our best to get all patients through their exam as quickly as possible, but please keep in mind that some patients aren’t feeling well so please be patient as we give each person as much time as they need.

Q47: Is this new technology?
CT scans themselves aren’t new, but our equipment is the newest available.

Q48: I understand I need a lab test. What is that for?
Some patients who will be receiving an injection must be tested to ensure your kidneys can process the liquid.

Q49: Should I wait out front after my exam?
If you are going back to see your doctor, you should wait for your CD or films. If you’re not sure, ask a technologist.

Q50: Do I need to take my films with me to the doctor’s office?
Yes, if that is what your doctor asked you to do.

Q51: Are pacemakers safe in a CT scan?
Yes.

Q52: Will you have my full chart with my medical history?
We do not have access to your complete medical records. We only have information your doctor has given us for your exam.

Q53: What do the people do I can see behind the window?
There are several steps in the scanning process that take place after the patient leaves. The people you see are working on other patients’ exams.

PET/CT Scan

Q54: How long will my exam take?
The scan itself only takes approximately 30 minutes, but you should plan on being in our offices for 2 ½ to 3 hours.

Q55: What is the PET/CT scan used for?
The PET scan demonstrates the biological function of the body, while the CT scan provides information about the body’s anatomy such as size, shape and location. This makes it a great tool to diagnose, plan treatment or follow-up after a surgery.

Q56: How soon until my Doctor gets the results?
We make every effort to get PET results back to your doctor as quickly as possible, but due to the complexity of this study, please keep in mind that PET scan results may take up to 2-3 working days for the full report to be completed. However, because we know time can be an issue, a verbal report may be available earlier if you have an immediate follow-up appointment. Please consult with your physician if you have any questions.

Q57: Can I work out afterward my exam?
Yes, feel free to return to normal activities after your exam.

Q58: How soon before I can eat and drink?
There are no restrictions on eating and drinking after your exam. We encourage you to drink extra fluids, water, juice or tea.

Q59: Why do I have to get an IV?
The IV is used to inject a tracer that enables the PET machine to acquire its images.

Q60: How long do I have to keep the bandage on?
About 20-30 minutes should be adequate to prevent bruising and bleeding.

Q61: Why did I have to drink that liquid?
The liquid contains barium which highlights the stomach and bowel to help doctors interpret the images.

Q62: Can the technologist tell me the results of the scan?
The technologist is trained in capturing accurate images. Once the exam is complete, a specialized radiologist will interpret your scan and share the results with your doctor.

Q63: How much radiation will I be getting?
The exact dosage depends on the area being scanned and varies by patient as the machine is calibrated for each person. If you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor.

Q64: Will I be able to drive home OK?
In most cases, you will need to have a driver with you because you will be given a mild sedative. Exceptions are bone scans or brain scans. If you’re receiving a brain or bone scan, you should be able to drive home on your own. Please confirm with our staff at (206) 292-7734 if you have any questions.

Q65: May my family/friend come back with me?
They can come back to help you prepare for the exam, but we ask they leave the area once the tracer is injected so they avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.

Q66: Are my watch, glasses, jewelry, or piercings OK?
Most accessories can be left on as long as we’re not scanning that body part.

Q67: Should I take my shoes off?
Shoes may be left on if we’re not scanning feet or ankles.

Q68: Should I empty my pockets? How about my wallet?
Yes, pockets should be emptied. You should take out your wallet as you will be more comfortable lying down. We have lockers available for your personal belongings.

Q69: Will I be able to use the restroom before my exam?
You will be able to use the restroom before the injection of the tracer and then again before pictures.

Q70: May I have a glass of beer/wine with dinner?
Please refrain from beer or wine the day before your exam. After your exam, however, you can return to normal activities, including eating and drinking.

Q71: What color will my urine be?
You will not notice anything abnormal when you empty your bladder. The dye that is injected is clear.

Q72: How long will I need to lie down?
You will be relaxing for about 45 minutes after the injection of the tracer and you will be on the machine for about 30 minutes.

Q73: Will it be cold in the examination room?
The scanner has its own air conditioner to keep it cool. We provide warm blankets to ensure your comfort. If you feel cold during your exam, let us know and we’ll work to make you more comfortable.

Q74: Does the PET machine make a lot of noise?
No.

Q75: How experienced are your technologists?
It varies depending on the tech. All our nuclear technologists are CNMT certified and have their state license.

Q76: Are you affiliated with Swedish Hospital?
No, we are not affiliated with Swedish. We do, however, have doctors who provide services to Swedish Medical Center.

Q77: I’m a large person, how will I know if I’m too large for the machine?
The table limit is 400 pounds. Please let us know if you have any concerns.

Q78: Will something be holding my head?
Yes, there are soft cushions to mold around your head. This is for your comfort and to ensure a quality scan.

Q79: Is this new technology?
PET scans themselves aren’t particularly new, but our equipment is the newest available.

Q80: I understand I need a lab test. What is that for?
Some patients who will be receiving an injection must be tested to ensure your kidneys can process the liquid.

Q81: Will I need to wait out front after my exam?
No, you are free to leave after the exam.

Q82: Are pacemakers safe in a PET scan?
Yes.

Q83: Will you have my full chart with my medical history?
We do not have access to your complete medical records. We only have information your doctor has given us for your exam.