Open MRI 17 in Paramus provides CT scan services for patients across Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, and Essex Counties, with results delivered to your physician within 24 to 48 hours.
A CT scan (Computed Tomography scan) is a diagnostic imaging test that combines multiple X-ray images captured from different angles and processes them using computer software to produce detailed cross-sectional views of the body. The resulting images give physicians a far more complete picture of your internal structures than a standard X-ray alone can provide.
CT scans are fast, non-invasive, and widely used to evaluate injuries, detect disease, monitor treatment progress, and guide clinical decision-making. They are ordered by primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency care providers across Northern NJ every day.
At Open MRI 17, our CT scanner delivers the high-resolution detail your doctor needs, with a patient experience that is efficient, clear, and comfortable.
CT scans are ordered for a wide variety of conditions. The most common reasons physicians in Bergen County and surrounding areas refer patients for a CT scan include:
CT scans of the head are used to evaluate head injuries, stroke, bleeding in the brain, sinus problems, and certain types of headaches that require rapid evaluation. Because CT is faster than MRI for acute head trauma, it is frequently the first imaging step ordered by an emergency physician or neurologist.
A chest CT scan evaluates the lungs, heart, aorta, and surrounding structures. Physicians order chest CT scans to screen for lung cancer, evaluate pneumonia or other infections, assess pulmonary embolism, and examine lymph nodes. Low-dose CT lung cancer screening is also available for patients who meet clinical criteria.
CT of the abdomen and pelvis provides detailed imaging of the liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, adrenal glands, bowel, bladder, and reproductive organs. It is commonly used to evaluate abdominal pain, kidney stones, appendicitis, masses, and follow-up after abdominal surgery.
A CT of the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine provides high-resolution bone detail that is useful for evaluating fractures, spinal stenosis, disc herniation, and degenerative changes. CT and MRI are often complementary for spinal conditions, with your physician ordering one or both depending on what they are looking for.
Fractures, bone tumors, joint conditions, and complex orthopedic injuries are evaluated with CT when detailed bone structure is needed. Sports medicine physicians and orthopedic surgeons frequently order CT imaging before planning treatment or surgery.
Some CT scans are performed with an intravenous contrast agent (contrast dye) that helps highlight blood vessels and certain tissues. If your physician has ordered a CT with contrast, we will review your kidney function and allergies before the scan and walk you through exactly what to expect.
Preparation depends on what type of CT scan your doctor has ordered. Here is what most patients can expect:
No special preparation is needed in most cases. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with no metal components. Arrive 15 minutes early with your ID, insurance card, and physician's order.
You may be asked to fast for 4 to 6 hours before your scan. You should inform us of any history of kidney problems, diabetes, or prior allergic reactions to contrast material. Our team will review this with you when you schedule.
Some protocols require drinking an oral contrast solution before the scan. We will provide clear instructions when you book your appointment.
If you have questions about your specific scan type, call us at (201) 368-2005 and our team will walk you through everything before your appointment.
The process is straightforward and typically completed in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
You will be positioned on a motorized table that moves through the CT scanner, which looks like a large, open ring rather than a narrow tunnel. Unlike an MRI, a CT scanner is not enclosed, and most patients find the experience simple and stress-free.
The table will move slowly through the scanner as it captures images. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly during certain portions of the scan to reduce motion artifacts. A technologist will be with you throughout the process and will communicate clearly about each step.
If contrast is being administered, a small IV will be placed in your arm beforehand. Some patients notice a brief warm sensation or a metallic taste when contrast is injected, which is normal and passes quickly.
After your scan, you can return to normal activities immediately in most cases. If contrast was used, we recommend drinking extra fluids throughout the day.
Your CT scan images are reviewed by our board-certified radiologists and a written report is delivered to your referring physician within 24 to 48 hours. If your physician needs results sooner due to clinical urgency, contact us directly and we will do our best to accommodate.
Our radiologists are experienced in interpreting CT scans across all body systems. Your doctor will receive a detailed report they can use immediately to guide your next steps.
Open MRI 17 accepts most major insurance plans including Medicare and Medicaid. CT scans are a covered imaging service under the vast majority of insurance plans when ordered by a physician with a valid referral or clinical order.
Our team verifies your coverage before your appointment so you know what your out-of-pocket cost will be. We also offer competitive self-pay rates for uninsured patients or those whose plans do not cover the service.
To confirm your coverage or ask about self-pay pricing, call (201) 368-2005 or visit our Book Appointment page.
Most CT scans take between 10 and 30 minutes depending on the type and whether contrast is involved. The actual scanning portion is often just a few minutes, with additional time for positioning and preparation.
CT scans use ionizing radiation, which is why physicians order them when the diagnostic benefit outweighs the minimal risk associated with radiation exposure. Modern CT scanners, including ours, use optimized low-dose protocols to minimize exposure while maintaining image quality. Your physician would not order a CT scan unless the clinical need was clear.
Most insurance plans require a physician referral or imaging order for CT scan coverage. If you have a referral, bring it with you. Self-pay patients should contact us to discuss options.
A CT scan uses X-ray technology to produce detailed images quickly, making it excellent for bone detail, trauma evaluation, and many organ assessments. An MRI uses magnetic fields and does not involve radiation, making it better for soft tissue detail such as brain tissue, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Your physician will determine which is more appropriate for your condition. If you have been referred for an MRI, see our HD Open MRI page for details on that service.
It depends on your scan type. CT scans without contrast generally do not require fasting. Scans with contrast may require fasting for 4 to 6 hours beforehand. We will provide specific instructions when you book.
Our radiologists deliver reports to your referring physician within 24 to 48 hours.
See why patients trust Open MRI 17 for accurate, comfortable, and stress-free imaging. Real stories from real people highlight our commitment to care, advanced technology, and exceptional service.
Open MRI 17 is located at 34 N Route 17, Paramus, NJ, with convenient access from Route 17 for patients coming from Hackensack, Teaneck, Clifton, Wayne, and surrounding communities throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, and Essex Counties.
We offer same-week CT scan appointments and a streamlined scheduling process. If your physician has ordered a CT scan, we can often see you within days.
We also offer HD Open MRI, Ultrasound, and Walk-In X-Rays at the same Paramus location, making Open MRI 17 a convenient one-stop imaging center for NJ patients.
Same-week appointments are available. Call (201) 368-2005 or book online now.
