CT Scan
A CT (Computed Tomography) or CAT (Computed Aided Tomography) scan is series of very detailed pictures/ x-rays of slices of the body using X-rays.
How long will it take?
This depends on the area of the body to be scanned. Scans of the head take between 10 and 30 minutes, whereas a scan of the abdomen can take up to an hour including prior preparation.
Do I need to undress?
You will only be asked to undress if your wearing anything metallic on or beneath your clothing. These could be zips, metal buttons, belts, corsets, or under-wired bras. If you have keys or coins in your pockets these will need to be removed.
What if I suffer from claustrophobia?
Only in very extreme cases can this be a problem. People often think that they will be placed in a long narrow tunnel but this is not true. The scanner is rather like a large polo mint. The hole is almost 3 feet wide and only about 10 inches deep so you are not confined in any way.
Will I need an injection?
This depends on the area to be scanned. Most abdominal scans and some chest scans involve an injection of a contrast agent into a vein in the arm. Some head scans also require this. The contrast agent helps to show up the organs clearly.
It is extremely important that you notify the doctor immediately if you suffer from asthma, hay fever, any severe allergies or use an inhaler. This is because the injection can, on rare occasions, aggravate your asthma and it may be necessary to take some medication prior to your scan in order to ensure that this does not happen. Failure to notify us in time could result in your appointment/scan being cancelled and rescheduled at later date, after you have taken the required medication.
Is there anything else I need to know about?
If your scan is being done to look at your abdomen, you will be asked to drink a very dilute barium solution over a period of 30 minutes to 1 hour before the scan, so a book or newspaper may help to pass the time.
If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to telephone us on the number given on your appointment letter.
What are the possible risks?
CT scanning uses x-rays to produce the images. Patients are often worried about being exposed to radiation, however it is important to get the risks into perspective. The risk to your health from not having the examination is likely to be much greater than from the radiation itself.
Unborn babies are more susceptible to radiation than adults so please tell the radiographer about the examination if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
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