CT

A computed tomography (or CT) scan is an imaging procedure that uses x-rays and digital computer technology to create detailed 3D images of the body.

CT

What is CT scan?

A CT (computed tomography) scan is an imaging test used by healthcare providers to diagnose diseases and injuries. It creates detailed images of your bones and soft tissues by taking a series of X-rays and using a computer. A CT scan is painless and non-invasive. You may need to go to a hospital or radiology center for your CT scan. Your provider might use a contrast material to highlight certain areas of your body on the scan. For a CT scan with contrast, your provider will place an IV (intravenous line) and inject a contrast (or dye) into your vein. They may also give you a substance to drink (like a barium swallow) to highlight your intestines. Both improve the visibility of specific tissues, organs or blood vessels and help healthcare providers diagnose several medical conditions. IV contrast agents usually flush from your system (when you pee) within 24 hours.

FAQ

A CT is an X-Ray system that produces 3 dimensional images. This means that the radiologist can review slices of your body much like you might go through slices in a loaf of bread.

Depending which part of your body being scanned you will be asked to remove articles of clothing or jewellery that could show up in the images. For example, a belt with a metal buckle for a scan of your abdomen.

You will be required to lie on the CT bed in a specified position (e.g. on your back with your chin dropped to your chest for a brain scan). You will be asked to hold still or follow some breathing instructions as the bed moves in and out of the CT machine.

Sometimes we may need to inject some "contrast" into your arm. This is a product that shows up your blood vessels and organs brightly on the images as it flows around your bloodstream.

If your scan does not require contrast, no specific preparation is required.
If your scan does require contrast, you will be asked to fast from food for 3 hours prior to your appointment. However, it is important to drink plenty of water during this time so that your blood vessels are hydrated. This makes it easier to insert the cannula (put a needle in your veins). Unless advised otherwise it is usually ok for you to continue taking any prescribed medication.

Again, this is dependent on the type of scan being performed. A simple exam without contrast can be as quick as a 30 second scan-time. A complex exam with contrast and multiple phases (timed scans) can require you to be on the bed for up to 30 minutes including cannulation time.

You continue on with your day. If you have had contrast, you will need to stay 15 minutes after your scan and you will be encouraged to increase the amount of water you drink to flush the contrast out. The contrast is clear so you will not see it in your urine.

The images will be forwarded on to our radiologist who will create a report which will be sent to your doctor, normally within 3 working days.

CT scans are a higher dose than a standard Xray. This means we are precise in the area we scan, and minors (under 18 years old) require written approval from a radiologist – which we organise. Despite this, it is most unlikely that you experience any detriment.

In a minority of cases someone may have a reaction to the contrast. Reactions can range from a simple skin irritation to anaphylaxis. Prior to the administration of contrast, you will be given a form to fill out to indicate the likelihood of a reaction and our staff are trained to assist if required.

Unless it is an emergency situation a CT will need to wait until after the baby is born.

A CT will not affect your breast milk.

If you have had a previous allergic reaction to contrast, we will not administer it to you. We may either do the scan without contrast or recommend that you attend a radiology clinic attached to a hospital site.

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