A computerised tomography (CT) scan is a medical imaging investigation that uses x-rays and computer software to produce detailed pictures of the inside of the body in cross sections (like slices). It is performed using a specialised CT scanner which consists of a large circular “doughnut shaped” machine and a flat table which glides in and out during the scan.

Frequently asked questions

Will anything prevent me from having an CT scan?

For female patients - if you are or may be pregnant you must tell the doctor referring you, or a member of staff in the radiology department, as soon as possible and, if possible, before your appointment. Depending on the urgency of the examination and the area of the body being imaged CT scans may not be advisable during pregnancy.

What are the side effects?

There is some exposure to radiation during the procedure. However, the amount of radiation you will receive is kept to a minimum. Our CT scanners are amongst the latest CT technology available and use state of the art dose reduction methods.

Are you required to make any special preparations?

Please read your letter carefully to check the location of your appointment - we have scanners on more than one site.
Allow plenty of time to get here - if you arrive late it could result in your scan being postponed. Please be aware that parking at the hospital can be difficult. There is a charge to park your car on site at the hospital.
For many CT scans no preparation is needed
For all abdominal and pelvic scans, you are asked not to eat or drink for four hours prior to your scan.
Sometimes we may ask you to drink water before you arrive for your CT scan. We will let you know if you need to do this.
Sometimes special preparation will be needed for a CT scan but we would give you clear instructions if this needed for your CT scan.
Continue to take prescribed medication (unless told otherwise) and your usual pain relief.

Make sure all body piercings within the area to be scanned are removed and try to leave jewellery and valuables at home (wedding rings do not need to be removed).

When you arrive

Follow the instructions in your letter to go the correct CT scanner
When you have arrived use the self-check-in screen or speak to the receptionist.
Take a seat in the waiting room - you will be greeted by a radiographer or radiographic department assistant who will ask you some questions to ensure the scan is for the right person, right place, right time. They will explain the procedure to you and may ask you to change into a hospital gown.
Some CT scans need extra preparation when you arrive. You may be asked to drink a special liquid to improve how well we see the inside of your body.
We may need to place a cannula into a vein so that we can give you an injection of a contrast (also a fluid designed to improve how well we see the inside of your body) during your CT scan.
A CT scan will take between 10 and 20 minutes. More complex or specialist scans may take longer.

Can you bring a relative or friend?

You are welcome to bring someone with you. In most instances they are not able to come into the scan room. In exceptional circumstances this will be allowed when a carer is required. They are welcome to wait for you in our waiting room.

Children must be always accompanied and supervised by an adult. We are unable to look after children for you while you have your CT scan.

Who will you see?

During you visit you will meet the following staff:

Radiographers (someone who is qualified in medical imaging, is registered with the HCPC, and will take your CT scan pictures)
Radiographic department assistants (RDAs), who are essential to the running of the CT lists and assisting in patient care.

You may also meet:

Radiologists (qualified doctors who have specialised in radiology and are registered with the GMC)
Radiology nurses (qualified nurses, registered with the RCN)
Student radiographers (training to be a radiographer, who always work under the supervision of a qualified radiographer).

What happens during the CT?

You will be asked to lie on the scanner couch which moves into the open-ended doughnut shaped tube. The part of your body being scanned must be at the centre of the tube and you will enter the scanner either headfirst or feet first depending on the area to be scanned.
The radiographer and other staff will be watching you from the CT control room, but you will be able to talk to them via an intercom.
You may be given an injection of contrast medium (a liquid to improve how well we see the inside of your body) The contrast medium will be injected into a cannula placed into a vein your arm.
If you feel uncomfortable or worried at any time, please let us know straight away.

When will you get the results?

We are not able to give you results immediately after the CT scan.

The CT images will be looked at by a radiologist who will write a report on what they see. The report will then be sent to the doctor or specialist nurse who sent you for this scan. This will be discussed with you, along with any other tests you may have had, by your doctor or specialist nurse. This follow up may be by telephone, letter, or a hospital appointment.

For more information, please see the NHS website.

Adapted from an original document compiled by the Royal College of Radiologists.