What to expect when you come for CT

You will be instructed to lie on the CT couch, which will then be moved into the gantry. Please lie still during the examination to ensure the best possible image quality. The study will be over in 15-30 minutes. Longer examinations may require a change in position to image certain structures to best advantage.

Many CT studies require intravenous contrast agent. This is a special fluid containing iodine that enhances the blood vessels and certain organs and allows them to be better visualised, highlighting any abnormalities. If your examination requires an intravenous contrast injection, you will be asked whether you have a history of allergies or asthma; and whether you are on diabetic medication. Oral contrast media are not usually required for CT studies of the brain and spine.

Safety Aspect of CT examination

CT imaging is considered a safe examination. Generally, the diagnostic benefit of a CT scan outweighs the small risk of x-ray radiation exposure. However, you should inform the radiographer if you are pregnant as the foetus is particularly susceptible to the effects of radiation. The risk of CT-guided biopsy is assessed on a case-by-case basis.