CT

Preparation?

Depending on the area of your body we need to scan, you may be asked to undress and put on a hospital gown. If you wear loose clothing that contains no metal (like zips, buckles or buttons) you may not have to wear a hospital gown. You may also be required to remove jewellery from the area being scanned.

Procedure

The scanner is a large, doughnut-shaped machine. You lie on a thin, flat table that slides back and forth inside the hole in the middle of the scanner. As the scan commences, the scanner will make a whirring noise and you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds as each picture is taken.

What do I need to bring?

• Referral from your doctor
• Medicare card (if applicable)
• Current Pension/healthcare card
• Previous test results (if applicable)

Contrast

A special dye called contrast is needed for some CT scans to help highlight the areas of your body being examined. If our Radiologist decides contrast is necessary, we will get you to fill out a short questionnaire which helps us determine that you are safe to receive the contrast. We may also require recent blood test results to check your kidney function. We are able to get these from your pathology provider.

Contrast is injected through a vein in your arm during the scan. You may experience a feeling of warmth during the injection or a metallic taste in your mouth and possibly a feeling like you`ve wet yourself. (you have not, this is just a feeling that goes away very quickly)

For your safety, a Doctor and nurse are always on site when contrast is given and you will be required to stay for 15 minutes after your scan to ensure you feel well before leaving.

How long does a CT take?

A CT scan can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on what part of the body is being scanned. It also depends on how much of your body the doctors want to look at and whether contrast is used.

Preparation for a Score CT?

You will be asked to avoid smoking or drinking caffeine 6 hours prior to your scan.
This is to ensure your heart rate is low and steady which is essential for quality images.

What happens during the Calcium Score CT

You will have ECG dots placed on your upper arms and lower ribs to enable the scanner to work out your heart rate.
As with other CT scans you will lie on the CT table and pass through the middle of the scanner. You will be asked to hold your breath several times up to 10-20 secs at a time.

If your heart rate is low and steady this should only take 5-10 minutes.

Who does the CT report?

Our Radiologist is a Medical specialist who reviews and interprets the images and provides a written report. This is electronically sent to your referring doctor or allied health worker.

What we need to know

Pregnant/Breastfeeding

Please advise our staff if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

Medications

Please advise us of any medications you are taking. They may affect the timing of your appointment.

Allergies

Please advise us of any allergies.