A Simple Guide to
CT Scans
Getting ready for a CT scan and feeling curious about what’s in store?
This straightforward guide will take you through the ins and outs of a CT scan, making sure you’re comfortable and confident before your appointment.
Table of Contents
What's a CT Scan?
A CT scan, short for “Computed Tomography,” is a painless medical test that uses a special machine to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body.
It’s like creating a 3D puzzle of what’s going on beneath your skin.
The CT machine sends out a bunch of X-ray beams that circle around you, capturing images from different angles.
Before the CT Scan
When booking your appointment, please inform our staff if you are taking any diabetic medication, have kidney disease or have had a previous reaction to x-ray contrast.
- When you arrive for your CT scan, your healthcare team will guide you through everything. They might ask you to change into a comfy gown and remove any metal objects, like jewellery or zippers.
- Some tests require no preparation; however many types of CT require an injection of contrast media (or dye) to show detailed vessels and organs of the areas of interest.
- For these tests you will be required to fast prior to your appointment, these instructions will be provided to you in detail at the time of booking.
- If you do require contrast our radiographer or radiologist will discuss this with you. The contrast may be inserted via a cannula in your arm or hand.
During the CT Scan
You’ll lie down on a cozy table that moves into the CT machine.
- The X-ray beams will rotate around you, taking pictures as you move through the hole.
- You won't feel anything during the scan, and the radiographer will be in touch with you the whole time.
Making You Feel Comfortable
Holding Still and Relaxing
Making You Feel Comfortable
While the CT scan is happening, it’s important to stay as still as possible.
This helps create clear and detailed images that the doctors can use to understand your body better.
If you need to shift or move, the technologist will guide you through it.
Holding Still and Relaxing
While the pictures are taken, it’s important to hold still for a few moments.
This ensures that the images are clear and easy to read.
The radiographer will guide you on how to position yourself for each picture.
After the CT Scan
Once the CT scan is over, you’re good to go.
- You may, then drive yourself home, eat and drink normally and resume your normal activities.
- There's no need for any special recovery time.
- If you have had a contrast injection, this will be absorbed and passed out of your body in your urine during the next 8-10 hours.
- Drinking plenty of fluid will assist this process.
Results and What's Next
An experienced radiologist will interpret and report on the results.
They’ll explain what they see and discuss any further steps if needed.
Patient Safety
CT scans involve the use of ionising radiation.
CT scans will only be performed when any potential risks are far outweighed by the benefits to the patient.
If you are, or may be pregnant, please inform our radiology team before your examination.
Contrast injections can make some patients feel nauseous or on rare occasions cause an allergic reaction.
If you are worried or concerned about having a CT scan you should discuss this with your referring doctor or medical specialist before coming for your examination.
In Summary
CT scans are like peeking inside your body without any surgery.
Now that you know what to expect, you’re all set for your CT scan.
- Remember to communicate any concerns you have with the healthcare team
- Don't hesitate to ask questions
- Your comfort and health are their top priorities.
Disclaimer: Please note, if you have any questions or reservations about an upcoming radiology scan, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider, who can address your concerns directly. This is general information, not tailored to a specific individual. Please read our Terms and Conditions.