If your doctor has referred you for a CT scan, you probably have questions. What exactly is a CT scan? Will it hurt? How long does it take — and where should you go in Lexington to get one?
At Bluegrass Regional Imaging, we’ve been providing outpatient CT scans to Central Kentucky patients since 2001. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
What is a CT scan?
A CT scan — short for computed tomography — is a type of medical imaging that uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed, cross-sectional images of the body. Unlike a standard X-ray, which produces a flat, two-dimensional image, a CT scan builds a layered picture that lets your doctor see organs, blood vessels, bones, and soft tissue in much greater detail.
CT scans are commonly ordered to help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting the chest, abdomen, pelvis, head, spine, and more. They play an important role in detecting infections, tumors, internal injuries, and vascular conditions, among many others.
What happens during a CT scan at BRI?
Your visit at Bluegrass Regional Imaging is designed to be efficient and stress-free. Here’s a typical overview of what to expect:
- Check-in and prep. Our front desk staff will verify your insurance and referral, and one of our technologists will review the procedure with you and answer any questions.
- The scan itself. You’ll lie on a motorized table that slowly moves through the CT scanner — a large, donut-shaped machine. The scanner rotates around you, capturing images. The equipment does not touch you, and most patients find the process quite comfortable.
- Contrast dye (if applicable). Some CT scans require a contrast agent — typically delivered via an IV — to help highlight specific structures like blood vessels or organs. If your scan requires contrast, our team will explain this to you before your appointment.
- Duration. Most CT scans take between 10 and 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Results. After your scan, our board-certified radiologists review and interpret the images. A report is sent to your referring physician, typically with a fast turnaround.
Why choose Bluegrass Regional Imaging for your CT scan?
There are good reasons to choose an outpatient imaging center over a hospital — and BRI in particular.
Focused expertise. Imaging is the only thing we do. Our technologists and radiologists are specialists, not generalists — which translates to better images and more reliable results.
Affordable care. As an outpatient facility, BRI is typically significantly more cost-effective than a hospital-based CT scan. We accept most major insurance plans and can assist with pre-authorization.
Convenience. We offer same-day and next-day appointments for most scans. Both of our Lexington locations offer free parking and easy access.
A track record you can trust. BRI has served Central Kentucky for over 20 years — combining community roots with clinical excellence.
Ready to schedule your CT scan?
If your physician has ordered a CT scan, ask them to refer you to Bluegrass Regional Imaging — or call us directly:
📍 1401 Harrodsburg Road, Suite C-25, Lexington, KY 📞 (859) 276-2157
📍 211 Fountain Court, Suite 140, Lexington, KY 📞 (859) 629-7230
You can also learn more and request an appointment at bluegrassregionalimaging.com. We’re here to make your imaging experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
