CT

A Computed Tomography scan is a non-invasive and pain free way to get a better look at soft tissue and bone in your body. It allows us to view cross sectional images through your body to look for abnormalities and signs of disease.

The CT scanner uses X-Rays. A series of detectors are used to measure how much the strength of the of the X-Ray beam reduces as it passes through your body. This produces images in much more detail than a conventional X-Ray.

Many hundreds of readings are taken from various angles as the X-Ray tube and detectors revolve around your body, inside the covered gantry. A powerful computer uses all this data to produces a cross-sectional image.

Our Radiographer

The CT radiographers specialise in this field and are experts in the latest CT techniques using a state-of-the-art multi slice CT scanner. 

The Scan

At Home

For a CT scan you must be referred by your GP or consultant.  Once we receive a referral  letter we will send you an appointment letter and some more information about how to  prepare for your scan, what to bring with you and what to leave at home. It is important that  you read any information we send you carefully so you can check what you need to do before  you get to us, for example you may need to avoid food before your scan.

At Cornwall House Clinic

Our radiographer will explain the procedure of the scan to you and answer any questions you might have. They will also fill in a safety questionnaire with you to make sure you are suitable for the procedure.

When scanning some parts of your body we might need to give you some 'contrast' solution to help the scanner to get a better picture of your internal tissues. This can be a small injection, usually into a vein near your elbow, or a drink.

The radiographer will then make sure you are comfortably positioned on the scanner couch. You will need to lie still during the scan so making sure you are comfortable at the start will really help. During the scan we may ask you to hold your breath to make sure we get a very clear picture of the area we are scanning.

Some people can find they feel a little claustrophobic in the scanner, if you are not keen on confined spaces please let us know before you come for your scan so we can make sure you are as comfortable and relaxed as possible. The radiographer will be able to see you clearly during the scan and if you need anything you only have to ask.

The Results

We understand that waiting for the results of a test can be a worrying time. Our aim is to get accurate results back to you as quickly as possible.

After your scan the images will be studied by a specialist consultant radiologists who will send a report to the doctor who referred you for the scan within four working days. You will need to make arrangements with them to talk about your results.