CT Scan

This information leaflet has been produced to give you general information and hopes to answer most of your questions when requiring a CT scan. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and the healthcare team, but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.

Please contact us prior to your scan if:

  • You are, or might be, pregnant
  • You weigh more than 200kg or 31 stone

What is a CT scan?

CT stands for Computerised Tomography. It is a type of scan that uses a special x-ray machine to produce detailed pictures of your body. These pictures are examined by a Radiologist (a doctor who specialises in reading x-ray images) and will help us to diagnose if there are any problems. The CT scanner is an open ring-like structure which resembles a giant doughnut. It is not a tunnel as some people might expect.

Can I bring a relative or friend?

Yes, but for reasons of safety they will not be able to accompany you into the CT scan room except in very special circumstances.

What do I need to wear?

You may be asked to change into a hospital gown. If you wish to wear loose fitting clothing which does not have metal zips, buttons or bra clips, it may be possible to perform the scan without having to change your clothes.

If we are scanning your head, then head coverings, hairbands, grips, earrings and hearing aids will also need to be removed.

Can I take my prescribed medicines as usual?

Unless specifically told otherwise by the CT Appointments Team or Radiology Nurses, you can continue to take all your usual medication. If possible, please drink three to four cups of clear fluid before you come for your scan. (If you have diabetes controlled by medication you may have a light snack two hours before your appointment).

What happens at the hospital before the scan?

When you arrive in the department you will be greeted by the Reception Team and Radiology Assistants.

For some examinations of the abdomen and pelvis you may need to drink a special liquid for 30 minutes to one hour before your scan. This highlights your bowel on the x-ray pictures.

What happens during the scan?

In the scan room the Radiographer (member of the Radiology Team trained to carry out scans) will explain the CT examination to you and what to expect. You can ask any questions you may have.

You will be asked to lie on either your back or on your front on the scanning table. The scanning table will move your body through the ‘doughnut’ shaped hole (gantry) so that the relevant areas of your body can be scanned. You will need to lie very still while each picture is taken, and you may be asked to hold your breath for a moment. We understand that some people have difficulty holding their breath- please tell us at the time if this is a problem for you. Straps and pillows may also be used to help maintain your position and keep you still during the examination.

The scanner is not noisy, and the examination should not be painful. During the scan, the Radiographer and the Radiology Assistant will be in an adjacent control room. You will be able to talk to them via intercom and you will be observed at all times.

Will I need an injection?

If we are scanning certain areas of your body, we may need to give you an injection of x-ray dye (contrast) into a vein in the arm or back of the hand. This dye highlights the blood vessels and body organs more clearly on the CT images. If you do need to have an injection we will need to ask you a number of questions about your medical history.

The dye may give you a metallic taste in your mouth and a ‘hot-flush’. Some people feel as though they have an urgency to pass urine. All of these sensations pass in a couple of minutes. If you have any questions about this please ask a member of staff.

How long does the scan take?

The actual scan itself usually lasts between 5 and 10 minutes.

We will try and keep to your appointment time but occasionally we have to scan patients urgently at short notice. This means your appointment could be delayed. We will let you know if this is the case.

Are there any risks?

As with all x-rays, CT scans use radiation. The level of radiation used is small and the benefits of the scan are thought to outweigh any risks.

The x-ray dye injection contains iodine which can cause an allergic reaction in a few people. You should tell the Radiographer if you have had an allergic reaction to iodine or x-ray dye in the past or if you have any other allergies.

Very rarely the x-ray dye may cause kidney damage, most commonly in people known to have kidney problems. The risks will have been assessed by your doctor. Occasionally precautions may be taken prior to your scan, and you will be informed of this by our CT Appointments Team or Radiology Nurses.

Rarely for those who have an injection, the x-ray dye can leak outside the vein and cause temporary swelling and discomfort in the arm requiring a cold compress. Very rarely a more extensive injury to the skin and soft tissue at the injection site can occur. This is unlikely to happen but if it does we will give you further instructions and advice.

Despite these slight risks, your doctor believes it is advisable that you should have this examination. Do bear in mind that there may be greater risks from missing a serious disorder by not having your scan.

What happens after the examination?

In most cases, as soon as the scan is finished you can go home or back to the ward if you are staying in hospital. You should be able to drive home afterwards and resume normal activities. You can eat and drink as normal.

If you have had an x-ray dye injection, we will ask you to wait a minimum of 15 minutes before you leave the CT Department. This is to ensure that you are feeling well after the injection. We will also advise you to slightly increase your fluid uptake for the rest of the day.

How do I find out the results of my scan?

The Doctor who asked us to perform your test will receive your results, which is usually within seven days. The hospital will contact you with a follow-up outpatient appointment. If after three weeks they have not contacted you, please contact the hospital switchboard on (0191) 482 0000 and ask to speak to your Consultant’s secretary.

Who do I contact if I have concerns?

Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this leaflet, please do not hesitate to contact the CT Department on (0191) 445 2094.