OUR SERVICES

CT Scan

Computerised Tomography or CT is a special type of X-ray which differs from standard X-rays.

It uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body. The images or pictures produced are cross-sections, like ‘thin slices’ of the body. CT is excellent in showing soft tissue, air, fluid, bone, vessels and all other internal structures of the body, allowing your doctor to identify any problems. Medical Imaging Partnership has a huge amount of experience in delivering high-quality CT scans which are interpreted and reported by specialist radiologists with considerable experience.

OUR SERVICES

CT Scan

Computerised Tomography or CT is a special type of X-ray which differs from standard X-rays.

CT Scan FAQs

You may have concerns or questions about having a CT scan at Medical Imaging Partnership and we have produced a list of Frequently Asked Questions which we hope you will find useful and will help you feel confident and comfortable.

They aren’t designed to replace an informed discussion with your clinician before your appointment. However, we will be able to answer any questions or concerns about your scan when you arrive for your appointment.

What is a CT scan?

Computerised Tomography or CT is a special type of X-ray which differs from standard X-rays. The movable table passes through the opening of the scanner whilst the X-rays are being taken. The X-rays pass through the body and are detected by sensors on the other side of the machine. The images or pictures produced are cross-sections, like ‘thin slices’ of the body. CT is excellent in showing soft tissue, air, fluid, bone, vessels and all other internal structures of the body, allowing your doctor to identify any problems.

Are there any risks to having a CT scan?

CT scanning uses x-rays to produce images. Patients are often worried about being exposed to radiation. However, it is important to put any risks into perspective, the risk to your health of not having the required examination is likely to be greater than any risk from the radiation itself. If you are, or might be pregnant, you must make sure the clinician referring you or a member of the CT team know as soon as possible. CT scans are not performed during pregnancy unless there are special circumstances. Before your appointment is scheduled, we will have asked you a number of questions to ensure it is safe for you to have your scan.

Do I need to have any special preparation for a CT scan?

There are some CT examinations which do require preparation, and this will be confirmed at the time of scheduling your appointment and in your confirmation letter.

Unless you have been told otherwise, you can eat and drink normally before and afterwards.

Can I bring a relative or friend to my CT scan appointment?

When you arrive Yes, subject to infection control restrictions. However, for safety reasons they won’t be able to accompany you into the CT scanner unit unless there are exceptional circumstances.

What will happen when I arrive for my CT scan?

Please follow the arrival instructions as set out in your appointment confirmation letter. During your appointment, you will be looked after by a small, specialised team, led by a radiographer who will carry out the scan. A member of the CT team will ask you to confirm some details, including your identity and that you are happy for the CT to go ahead as you need to understand what a CT is, what to expect, and any possible risks.

For more information about Informed Consent please visit: nhs.uk/conditions/consent-to-treatment/

Before your scan, you may need to remove some items of clothing, a gown will be provided, and leave any jewellery (except your wedding ring), cash, keys, credit cards, watch etc in a secure locker.

What happens during the CT?

The CT team will show you into the scanner room and will help you get into the right position on the couch. Some people need to have a contrast medium to produce more detailed images, which involves an injection of dye. For this, a small needle (cannula) will be put into your arm/hand. You may experience a strange taste and you may feel a little warm for a short while.

If you need contrast medium, you may also need to have a blood test before your scan as a precaution and to check your kidney function. If you are having an injection of contrast a member of staff will go through the safety questions with you, and you’ll be asked to sign it.

When you are comfortable, the CT table moves you very slowly towards the hole in the centre of the ‘polo’ shaped scanner. The scanner will then produce the images.

The CT team will be in the control room, but you will be able to talk to them via an intercom and they can see you on a screen. You may be asked to hold your breath during the scans to prevent any blurring on the image. If at any time you feel worried or uncomfortable you can let the CT team know using the intercom and they will do what they can to help.

How long will a CT scan take?

The CT scan itself usually takes around 20-30 minutes and your appointment from start to finish is likely to be about 45 minutes.

Are there any side-effects of a CT scan?

There are no side effects from the CT scan itself, although it does use several times more radiation than a typical X-ray; equivalent to what you might be exposed to naturally over a three-to-four-year period. If you have an injection of contrast, you may have some side effects which might include a skin rash, dizziness, a headache and nausea. The CT team will discuss this with you and will answer any questions you may have before the injection.

Can I eat and drink after a CT scan?

Yes, you can eat and drink as normal. If you have an injection of contrast during your examination, it is beneficial to drink plenty of water (2-3 extra glasses) after your examination to help flush out the contrast from your system.

When will I get the results of a CT scan?

After the scan, the images will be examined by the radiologist who is responsible for producing a written report on their findings to send to your referring clinician. Our radiologists are all qualified doctors and specialise in specific body areas, giving you, and your referring clinician confidence in the accuracy of your report.

Making an appointment

CT scans for NHS patients

If you are an NHS patient and are having a CT scan at a Medical Imaging Partnership site or centre, you will need a referral from your GP or specialist.

Please contact the team at our Referral Management Centre on 01243 534 043 if your GP has given you a reference number to make a booking. Otherwise, we will be in touch when we have received your referral centrally.

Medical Imaging Partnership also works in partnership with a number of NHS providers supporting them in the delivery of their diagnostic requests. They may have transferred your care to us and we will be in touch with you to arrange a convenient time, date and location for us to undertake your investigation.

Learn more

Booking an appointment for a private CT scan

We offer CT scans to patients with private medical insurance, or those who wish to self-pay.

Appointments for a private CT scan at Medical Imaging Partnership are available at short notice and reports are usually turned around within 24-48 hours.

If you would like to make an appointment for a CT scan, please click and complete the ‘Request An Appointment’ form or call us on 01293 534 043.

To arrange a CT scan with Medical Imaging Partnership you will need written referral from a healthcare professional. If you do not have a referral, please contact our team who will be happy to discuss your options.

Request an appointment