CT Imaging

CT scanning causes no pain and with MDCT (Multidetector CT) the need to lie still for any length of time is reduced.
Preparation for each body examination area will be different.

When making your booking at any of our branches, our friendly staff will inform you of how and what you need to do in order to prepare for your examination.

In some instances, you may be asked to swallow a liquid contrast material to help see the stomach, small bowel and colon better.
Some patients find the taste mildly unpleasant, but most can easily tolerate it.

Commonly, a contrast material may be injected into a vein to define the blood vessels and to accentuate the difference between normal and abnormal tissue in organs like the liver, pancreas and kidneys.

A flush of heat together with a metallic taste at the back of the mouth are experienced but these usually disappear within a minute or two.

The total length of a CT scan procedure could take up to an hour. The actual scanning itself takes between a few seconds and a few minutes, depending upon the examination. Most of the procedure time is in preparation and confirmation that the images are of sufficient quality. In the case of children, a parent/carer may be allowed in the room to alleviate anxiety but will be required to wear a lead apron to prevent radiation exposure.

You will be alone in the examination room for the duration of the scan. The radiographer is in an adjoining room and so will be able to see, hear and speak to you at all times.

The average time for procedure: 20 – 60 minutes
The average time is dependant on the area of study, the complexity of the case and if any contrasting agents need to be administered.