CT Scan

A CT scan combines multiple X-ray images taken from different angles to create detailed, cross-sectional pictures of your body, offering more detailed information than a regular X-ray. The CT Scanner is a large doughnut shape, with the imaging bed in the middle that goes in and out. The scan is quite quick. 

Some CT scans require a contrast medium to help highlight certain areas. Your doctor or radiographer will let you know if this is necessary and will ask a series of questions to ensure that contrast will be okay for you.

No, the CT scan itself is not painful. If contrast is used, you may feel a warm sensation all over once during injection, you may even feel like you want to use the toilet, but it’s typically brief.

In most cases, the CT scan itself will take only a few minutes; however, some urinary scans can take up to 10 minutes. A typical CT appointment takes around 10-15 minutes to support any necessary preparation to take place, such as cannulation, checking any allergies and changing.

CT scans use more radiation than standard X-rays, but the amount is still low and measured against evidence-based policy. Your doctor will only recommend a CT if the benefits outweigh any risks.

It depends on the type of scan. If you need contrast or a specialised test, you might be asked to fast for a few hours before your test.

Yes, you may need to change into a gown and remove jewellery, especially if it contains metal in the area of scanning.

Your doctor will decide if contrast is necessary based on the area being scanned and what they’re looking for.