We at health plus, care about your safety and comfort. Please go through the following points before you undergo a CT scan examination, and feel free to ask us for any more information.
What is a CT scan?
CT stands for Computed Tomography. It is also known as CAT Scan
How does it work?
A CT scanner is a highly specialized kind of X-ray machine. It uses multiple X-rays to produce several cross-sectional, or 'slice' images of the inside of your body. The scanner itself looks like a large doughnut. During the scan you will lie on a bed, with the body part under examination placed in the round opening of the scanner.
The bed then moves slowly backwards and forwards to allow the scanner to take pictures of your body, although it won't actually touch you.
The x-ray source will rotate around you, and the x-rays will then be read by SPECIALISED detectors after they've passed through your body. Finally, A computer system will convert the information received by the detectors into two-dimensional or 3D pictures.
Who will I see?
You will see a small team of qualified Radiology Technologists, nursing and paramedical staff who will look after you during your visit. One of the technologists will carry out the scan.
Is it safe?
You'll receive a dose of x-rays, however it is very unlikely to cause harmful effects.
The amount of radiation used varies. It's more than an ordinary X-ray and is the same as the natural radiation we all get over a period of about three years.
However , please bear in mind that the risk is very small and the risk of missing a serious problem if you don't have a CT scan is much higher.
We at healthplus, care for your safety. We have therefore installed the latest, highly advanced 16 Multislice Spiral CT scanner, manufactured in Germany by Siemens.
Our machine IS THE SAFEST CT scanner in this class.
Is it safe to get a CT scan done if I am pregnant?
It is not advisable to get a CT scan done if you are pregnant, or suspect that you may be pregnant. Before going for the CT examination, please inform our technological staff if you are pregnant, or if there is a chance that you may be pregnant.
Do I need an injection?
Many CT scans involve injecting a substance - known as a 'contrast medium' - into your vein to increase the amount of information we can get from the scan.
Are there any side effects?
- If you recieve an injection of contrast medium, you may experience a sensation of warmth and a metallic taste in the mouth. There is a very small risk of an allergic reaction, or temporary side effects such as nausea or an itchy rash, but other reactions are extremely rare. Our medical team is competent in dealing with any kind of adverse reaction.
- We will ensure that a qualified anaesthetist specialist doctor is present with you during your CT examination to take care of any rare side effect or reaction.
- You need to let the radiographer know if you've reacted to any other injection given for a kidney X-ray (IVP or IVU) or a previous CT scan. Also, kindly let us know if you are asthamatic or have a history of allergy to any drug.
Before the scan
Depending on the part of your body to be examined, some preparation may be necessary.
For an abdominal or pelvic CT you may be asked to drink a special liquid to outline the intestines one hour before starting the examination.
Or, you may need a small injection of contrast medium to assist the examination.
- In case you need an intravenous injection for ct scan, you will need to be fasting for atleast 4 hours.
- For the safety of your kidneys, we strongly recommend that you get your blood urea and serum creatine checked before you receive an injection of contrast medium.
What happens during my appointment?
- When you arrive, please bring your doctor's prescription and all previous medical records including CT scan & lab reports in case you have any.
- The radiology technologist will meet you and explain the procedure to you.
- You may feel free to ask any questions you might have.
- We may ask you to change into a hospital gown. You can put your clothes and personal items in the safety locker provided.
- We may need to give you an injection, depending on the area that needs to be scanned.
- We'll take you into the scanning room and ask you to lie down on the scanner table.
- We'll move the table slowly so we can position the part of your body that's going to be scanned under the scanner camera.
- During the scan we may ask you to hold your breath or not swallow.
- The radiology technologist operating the scanner will be able to see and hear you throughout the procedure.
Will it be uncomfortable?
No, the procedure will not be uncomfortable at all. It is completely painless. Our advanced CT machine doesn't have a tunnel, but only a wide round opening which will not even touch you, hence you will not experience any claustrophobia or suffocation.
How long will it take?
- If you're given fluid to drink when you arrive, you may have to wait for an hour before having your scan
- Once you have been taken into the CT room, most scans take around 5 to 15 minutes.
Can I bring a relative or friend?
- Yes, but they'll only be allowed to go into the examination room in special circumstances - this is for safety reasons
- Children won't be allowed into the room while you're having the scan so you need to make arrangements for them before your appointment
When will I get the results?
- A specialist doctor- the radiologist- will study the hundreds of images of your body in detail shortly after your visit.
- The radiologist will then form a diagnosis and make a comprehensive CT scan report.
- Your report will be ready within two days.
After the scan
- After your scan you can eat and drink normally
- In case you have received an intravenous injection, We'll ask you to wait in the reception for 30 minutes after your examination in case you develop a slight reaction to the injection
- You can drive home afterwards and return to work if you need to.