How is the examination conducted?
A scan allows the visualization of images of a cross-section of your body. These images allow us to detect anomalies that we cannot see in conventional X-rays. Your examination may require administration of an iodized contrast product. This may be administered orally, intravenously or rectally, based on the type of examination. You may be asked to hold your breath for several seconds to produce the best quality images. An examination can last for between 10 and 30 minutes.
What will I feel during the examination?
A scan examination is not painful. If an intravenous injection of an iodized colorant is required, you may feel a sensation of heat in your body, a bad taste in your mouth and you will probably feel like you are urinating, but this will last for only a few seconds.
How do I prepare for the examination?
Preparation differs depending on which type of examination you will undergo. For some, you will need to have fasted.
If you need to have an iodine injection, you will have to complete a questionnaire to ensure that there is no contraindication for an iodine injection. If you are having an abdominal examination, it is highly likely that we will have asked you to arrive a bit earlier to have you drink water or a colorant. This method allows your intestine to be deeply coloured and be seen better during the examination. It may also be necessary to administer a colorant rectally as an enema. This is another way to see your intestines. All these details will be given to you when you make your appointment.
For more information, see the 
Axial tomography pamphlet (in French only).
Results of the examination
You will not be given any results after your examination. The radiologist evaluates the images produced by the technologist and prepares a report describing the findings from the images. The report will then be sent to your doctor who will share the results with you.