What is a CT Scan?

CT stands for computed tomography (sometimes called a CAT scan), it uses X-rays to build up a cross sectional image of the body. In the picture of the CT scanner on the right, the main working parts are the table (where the patient lies) and the gantry which is ‘ring’ shaped and contains a rotating x-ray source and detectors. Data taken from the body is built up by a computer system into a diagnostic image which can be interpreted by radiologists.

Who needs a CT Scan?

CT is an excellent way of looking at the internal anatomy of the body.

It is the imaging investigation of choice for a range of symptoms relating to many body areas including the chest, abdomen, pelvis, bones head and neck. Doctors will use it to look for a cause for a whole variety of symptoms from breathlessness, coughing, and chest pain to abdominal pain, weight loss and many others. It is an investigation which can be used to obtain further information about established or suspected diseases eg. Cancers.

How do I organise a CT scan?

You will require a referral from your GP or Hospital Doctor. A CT referral form can be found on our website link here. This needs to be completed, signed and returned to our administrative team. They will contact you to arrange an appointment.

How much will it cost?

The basic cost is £198 for a single part CT scan, with contrast charged at £25.00 if necessary. This is fully inclusive of the Consultant Radiologists report.

We also have agreements to undertake CT scanning for Health Insurance companies and have direct billing arrangements with most insurers.

How long will I have to wait?

We do not have a waiting list and aim to book, perform and double report all scans within 1 working week.

Who will report my scan?

Your scan images will be reported by UK trained and registered disease specific consultant radiologist. Scans are reported by 2 radiologists to increase accuracy (double reported).Our team of consultants have considerable experience in reporting CT scans. We will allocate your scan to a consultant with expertise in the relevant body system eg. Brain, heart, abdomen etc. This will be done on site, none of our reporting work is outsourced abroad.

Do I keep my films?

Your images can be produced onto hard copy film or ‘soft copy’ CD – dependent on your referrers requirements.

These are then posted to you or the doctor who referred you. The report is generally sent to the doctor who referred you.

Preparation for a CT scan

You may be asked to refrain from eating and drinking one or more hours prior to the examination. You may be asked to drink a ‘contrast drink’, clear solution mixed up with water prior to the scan. Certain examinations require more extensive preparation eg. CT Colonography which requires full bowel preparation. Detailed instructions will be given to you at the time of booking.

What should I wear?

You should wear loose fitting comfortable clothes and avoid anything containing metal such as clips and zips. You may be asked to change into a gown.

What should I expect on the day?

We will talk to you in more detail about the scan procedure when we make your appointment and send you any information in the post, by email or you may download it. We will also take the time to explain the scan to you before we start, go through any history and answer your questions.

On arrival to the imaging centre you should report to reception where you will be asked some simple questions. The scan itself is very quick lasting about 5 minutes, it is silent other than spoken instructions you will hear over the intercom system. You may be given an intravenous injection of contrast dye during the scan. You must tell the staff if you have ever had an allergic reaction to intravenous contrast dye. The intravenous dye may give you a hot flush and the sensation of a strange taste in the mouth.

Click here to go to our Clinical Information Download Page if you wish to see our patient or clinician literature.

Are there any risks associated with a CT?

CT does involve exposure to x-rays (radiation). This is one of the reasons a doctor needs to make the referral to the imaging centre. The benefits from accurate diagnosis should be greater than the small risk from radiation. The general population is exposed to background radiation during the course of their everyday life – a CT scan is equivalent to background radiation received over a period of a few years.

• You will be asked if there is any chance you are pregnant as you should not be scanned if pregnant.
• If you are breast feeding and receive a contrast injection during your scan you must refrain from breast feeding for 24 hours.
  

Is there anything you need to tell us before the scan?

Yes

• If you may be pregnant – you must not be scanned
• If you are breast feeding – see above
• If you are diabetic taking a drug called Metformin
• If you have a history of kidney problems