Computer Tomography (shortened to CT) is a scan process that involves using X-ray radiation and a computer to produce detailed 3 dimensional images through the body area being examined. The CT scan will help your doctor or healthcare professional investigate your suspected clinical condition through diagnosis and treatment, where appropriate.
The CT scan will involve lying still on a scan table that moves backwards and forwards through the scanner. Although you will be left alone in the scan room while the scan is taking place, the radiographer can see you and it is possible to talk to the radiographer at any time via an intercom.
Once your CT scan has been completed there should be no unpleasant after-effects and you should be able to resume normal activities immediately afterwards.
The results of your CT scan will be sent to the doctor or healthcare professional who requested the examination and they will then make appropriate arrangements to see you again. This may be on the ward if you are an in-patient or at your next clinic appointment.
How a CT scan works
A CT scan uses X-rays to produce 3D images of your body. The images are used to diagnose, guide treatment and monitor a broad range of diseases and injuries. Some CT scans require you to have a small tube put into your arm so that dye that shows up on X-ray can be injected during the examination. You may also be asked to drink water or a mixture of water and dye before your scan. These will help different parts of the body to be seen more clearly.