CT Scans in Grand Rapids, Michigan

A CT scan (computed tomography scan), sometimes called a CAT scan, is a medical imaging test that uses x‑rays and computer technology to create detailed 2D and 3D images of the inside of your body. CT scans can show bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues all at the same time, making them a key tool for diagnosing many conditions.

In Grand Rapids, MI, CT scans are commonly performed at major health systems such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health), and Mercy Health, as well as at outpatient imaging centers across Kent County.

How a CT Scan Works

CT scanning equipment includes a large, donut-shaped machine called a gantry with a circular opening.

  • Inside the gantry is a rotating ring that holds the x‑ray source and x‑ray detectors.
  • You lie on a motorized table that slides into the opening.
  • The scanner takes multiple x‑ray images in thin cross‑sections (similar to slices of a loaf of bread).
  • A computer combines these slices into detailed images of the area being examined.

CT scans are often used in Grand Rapids emergency departments and clinics to:

  • Evaluate injuries from falls or car accidents, especially in winter when roads are icy
  • Help diagnose stroke, heart disease, lung conditions, and cancer
  • Guide procedures such as biopsies or needle aspirations
  • Plan surgery or radiation therapy

Common Reasons for a CT Scan

Your Grand Rapids healthcare provider may order a CT scan to:

  • Assess the structure or shape of an organ or body part
  • Diagnose cancer or monitor treatment
  • Evaluate trauma or injury (head, chest, abdomen, spine, or bones)
  • Diagnose vascular disease, such as aneurysms or blood clots
  • Plan and guide surgery or radiation therapy
  • Measure bone strength and detect certain bone problems

Because West Michigan experiences cold, icy winters and active outdoor lifestyles near the Great Lakes, CT scans are often used here for evaluating winter sports injuries, slips and falls, and car crashes.

Before Your CT Scan in Grand Rapids

Your care team at a Grand Rapids hospital or imaging center will give you specific instructions. It is important to share your medical history and follow all directions carefully.

Tell Your Doctor If:

  • You are pregnant or think you might be pregnant
  • You have allergies, especially to contrast dye or iodine
  • You have diabetes
  • You have a thyroid condition
  • You have kidney (renal) problems
  • You have asthma or prior reactions to contrast
  • You experience claustrophobia (fear of small or enclosed spaces)
  • You have any implanted devices, such as:
    • Pacemaker
    • Defibrillator
    • Insulin pump or medication pump
    • Metal implants, clips, or hardware

If you have claustrophobia, your Grand Rapids provider may prescribe a mild sedative to help you relax during the scan. Arrange a driver if you take a sedative.

CT Scan Contrast Material

Some CT scans use a contrast material (also called “dye”) to make blood vessels, organs, or the digestive tract easier to see.

Contrast may be given:

  • Orally (a drink)
  • Intravenously (IV) (through a vein in your arm)
  • Rectally (as an enema, for some bowel studies)

Your doctor may ask you to:

  • Avoid food and drink for several hours before the scan
  • Adjust certain medications (especially if you have diabetes or kidney disease)

Follow the preparation instructions from your Grand Rapids imaging center or hospital carefully. If you have kidney disease, your provider will review whether contrast is safe for you and may check your kidney function with a blood test.

What to Expect During a CT Scan

Most CT scans in Grand Rapids are done as outpatient procedures, either at a hospital (Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Mercy Health, U of M Health–West) or at a local imaging clinic.

When You Arrive

You may be asked to:

  • Check in and review your medical history and allergies
  • Sign a consent form
  • Change into a hospital gown

Remove All Metal Objects

Before the scan, you will need to remove:

  • Jewelry and piercings
  • Watches and hairpins
  • Eyeglasses
  • Dentures or hearing aids (if requested)
  • Any removable metal objects

Metal can interfere with image quality.

During the CT Scan

  1. Positioning on the table

    • You lie down on the scanner table, usually on your back.
    • Straps and foam pads may be used to keep you in the correct position and help you stay still.

  2. Contrast injection (if needed)

    • If IV contrast is used, it will be injected through a small needle in your arm or hand.
    • You may feel:
      • A brief warm sensation throughout your body
      • A metallic taste in your mouth
      • A mild feeling like you may have “wet” yourself (this is a common sensation and not actual urine leakage)
    • These feelings usually last only a few seconds.

  3. The scan itself

    • The table moves into the circular opening of the CT scanner.
    • The ring inside the gantry rotates around you, taking x‑ray images.
    • Each rotation takes less than a second, and several rotations may be needed.
    • You will hear clicking, whirring, or buzzing sounds—this is normal.

Stay Very Still

  • You will be asked to lie as still as possible so the images are clear.
  • For some scans (especially of the chest or abdomen), you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.

Most CT scans take a few minutes to about 30 minutes, depending on the area being examined and whether contrast is used.

Immediately After Your CT Scan

  • You may be asked to wait briefly while the radiographer (technologist) checks the images.
  • Sometimes, additional images are needed for better detail.
  • If you received IV contrast, you may be asked to stay for a short observation period to make sure you feel well.

When the scan is complete and you are cleared to leave:

  • You can get dressed and go home or back to work.
  • If you took a sedative, you will need someone to drive you home.

CT Scan Results in Grand Rapids

A radiologist (a doctor who specializes in medical imaging) will:

  • Review and interpret your CT images
  • Prepare a detailed report

The results are sent to your referring provider (such as your primary care doctor, urgent care provider, or specialist). You will need a follow‑up appointment or call to discuss:

  • What the scan showed
  • Any diagnosis
  • Next steps in your care or treatment

Safety, Risks, and Side Effects

CT scans are non‑invasive, painless, and generally very safe. However, there are some risks to be aware of.

Radiation Exposure

  • CT scans use higher doses of x‑rays than standard x‑ray images.
  • The radiation from a typical CT scan is roughly equal to the amount you would receive from the environment over about three years.
  • This exposure is thought to slightly increase the lifetime risk of developing cancer, but for most people, the benefits of accurate diagnosis outweigh this small risk.

Healthcare providers in Grand Rapids follow radiation safety guidelines to:

  • Use the lowest dose necessary
  • Avoid unnecessary repeat scans
  • Adjust settings for children and smaller adults

Contrast Side Effects

Most people tolerate iodinated contrast material well, but possible effects include:

  • Mild nausea
  • A brief warm or flushed feeling
  • Mild itching or rash

Rarely, some people may have an allergic reaction, which can include:

  • Hives
  • Swelling of the face or throat
  • Difficulty breathing

Imaging centers and hospitals in Grand Rapids are equipped to treat allergic reactions immediately. Always tell your provider if you have had a previous reaction to contrast dye.

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, tell your doctor before scheduling a CT scan. In some cases, another imaging test that does not use radiation, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be recommended instead.

Recovery and Aftercare

Right After the Scan

  • Most people do not need any recovery time and can return to normal activities right away.
  • If you received IV contrast, you may be encouraged to drink extra fluids (water) over the rest of the day to help your kidneys flush it out—especially important during cold Grand Rapids winters, when people often drink less water.

Breastfeeding After a CT Scan

  • Nursing mothers do not need to stop breastfeeding after a CT scan, even if iodinated contrast dye was used.
  • Only a very small amount of contrast enters breast milk, and it is considered safe for infants.

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your Grand Rapids healthcare provider or seek urgent care if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Hives or severe rash
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Severe headache or dizziness

If symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department (such as Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital or Trinity Health Grand Rapids).

Long-Term Outlook After a CT Scan

  • There are no known long‑term side effects from a single CT scan.
  • The small increase in cancer risk from radiation is generally outweighed by the benefit of early and accurate diagnosis.
  • Your Grand Rapids healthcare team will only recommend a CT scan when it is medically necessary.

Alternatives to a CT Scan

Depending on your condition, your provider in Grand Rapids may consider other tests, such as:

  • MRI scan – Uses magnets and radio waves (no radiation). Often used for brain, spine, joints, and soft tissues.
  • Ultrasound – Uses sound waves (no radiation). Common for pregnancy, abdominal organs, blood vessels, and some soft tissues.
  • X‑ray – For simple bone injuries or chest imaging.
  • Blood tests – To look for infection, inflammation, or organ function problems.
  • Biopsy – Taking a small tissue sample for lab analysis (sometimes guided by CT or ultrasound).
  • Exploratory surgery – Rarely needed now, as CT and other imaging tests can often provide the necessary information without surgery.

Your Grand Rapids provider will help choose the safest and most effective test for your situation.

Local Resources for CT Scans in Grand Rapids, MI

You can access CT imaging through many local providers, including:

  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) – Grand Rapids
    Multiple hospital and outpatient imaging locations across the metro area.

  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    Offers inpatient and outpatient CT imaging services.

  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)
    Provides CT scans at its main hospital and affiliated centers.

  • Mercy Health and affiliated imaging centers
    Provide CT and other diagnostic imaging services.

For public health information, cancer screening programs, and imaging-related guidance, you can also contact:

  • Kent County Health Department
  • Grand Rapids Public Health resources

When to Talk to a Doctor About a CT Scan

Consider asking your Grand Rapids primary care provider, urgent care clinician, or specialist about a CT scan if you have:

  • Persistent or severe headaches, chest pain, abdominal pain, or shortness of breath
  • A recent injury or accident, especially with ongoing pain or neurological symptoms
  • Unexplained weight loss, fevers, or lumps
  • Symptoms of stroke (sudden weakness, facial droop, trouble speaking) – call 911 immediately

They can determine whether a CT scan or another imaging test is appropriate and help you schedule it at a local hospital or imaging center.

If you have questions about CT scans, preparation, or results, speak with:

  • Your primary care provider (GP)
  • The radiographer (technologist) performing your scan
  • The radiologist interpreting your images

These professionals in Grand Rapids, Michigan, can help you understand the process, benefits, and risks so you can feel more comfortable and informed about your CT scan.