CT

Computed Tomography

The duration of an examination depends on which part of the body is being examined. Most scans take 20 minutes.
If you are asthmatic or diabetic it is very important that you inform reception staff. You may need to change into a gown and you will be asked to lie on a narrow bed. The bed is designed to slide through a large 'O' shaped xray tube. Depending on the specific examination you will be oriented to pass either head first or feet first through the tube. A radiographer controls the scanner from behind a partition near the scanner. The table will move during the examination as images are obtained. During the scan you may be able to hear the machine moving.
It is important that you remain still and you may be asked to hold your breath for short intervals. Some scans require an injection of contrast dye into a vein in your arm. You will be informed of this prior to your examination and asked to fill out a questionnaire. Upon receiving the injection you may experience a sensation of warmth and a metallic taste - this is normal and you should not be concerned. Reactions to dye are rare and staff are fully trained should this occur. If you have previously had a reaction to I.V. contrast it is important that you inform staff before the procedure begins. There are no after effects and you should be fine to drive home and resume your normal diet.

back

disclaimer