A Guide for Patients having a C.T. (Computed Tomography) Scan

How long will I be in the department?

You will be in the department for approximately:

• 30 minutes for a scan of your brain
• 1 - 1.5 hours for a scan of your pelvis or abdomen (tummy)

Please try to be on time so you do not delay other patients.

A CT scan is a special x-ray that takes many pictures in sections, which other investigations cannot. It is a square machine with a large hole in the centre and a table for you to lie down.

Having a CT scan is very safe and will not make you radioactive. Our equipment is modern and minimises the amount of x-rays.

Why do I need a scan?

A CT scan is to initially assess your condition and to compare your progress during and after treatment.

Is there any special preparation?

You can continue taking any tablets or medicines. if you think you are pregnant, tell the department before your scan.

There is no preparation needed for a scan of the brain.

If you are having a scan of your abdomen, you may have a light meal beforehand. We will give you a jug of special liquid to drink, which we can flavour with fruit juice if you wish.

For a scan of the abdomen or chest, you will need to undress but we will give you a clean gown and dressing gown for modesty.

What happens during the scan?

You will need to lie on the table as it moves slowly through the hole taking pictures. It is not a tunnel nor is it claustrophobic. The machine will make a noise but will not touch you and you will not feel anything. A radiographer carries out the scan and will answer your questions and explain what is happening at all times.

For scans of the chest and abdomen we will ask you to hold your breath every so often for a few seconds, so that the pictures are not blurred.

When the scan is complete, the radiologist who is a doctor and the radiographer will check the pictures. If the radiologist needs more pictures, it may be necessary to give you an injection into a vein in your arm.

The scan has no side effects so you will not feel any different. It is quite safe to drive home after the scan.

When will I get the results?

After you leave the department, the radiologist will look at the pictures and write a report. This will take some time but your doctor will receive the results and they will be available for your next appointment.