CT SCAN

Why Have a CT scan?

There may be many reasons why your doctor referees you for a CT scan including;

To diagnose kidney or gall stones
To diagnose a slipped or bulging vertebral disc
To assess lesions and cysts
To diagnose cancer
...and many more

Who performs the examination?

CT images are taken by specialist staff called radiographers. These images are then interpreted and reported upon by specialist doctors called Radiologists.

What happens during the examination?

For the examination, your radiographer may ask you to remove any clothing that might obstruct the accuracy of your images and wear a provided gown where necessary. You will then be asked to lie on the CT table which slides through the circular CT machine. Whilst this happens you will be asked to keep very still and hold your breath for a few seconds. Whilst you are doing this, the CT machine will be taking images.

Once the radiographer is satisfied that the images are accurate the procedure is finished. The taking of the images takes only a few seconds whilst the construction of the films may take several minutes. There is no pain or discomfort caused by the CT scan and you will have your film complete with radiologist's report within half an hour from walking into the building in most cases.

Remember to take your film and report to your next doctor's appointment.

What are the Risks of having too many CT scans?

As CTs are a type of x-ray, you should be careful not to have too many as excessive exposure caused by too many CT scans in a short time can be harmful to the body.

To avoid over exposure to CT scan radiation, radiographers who work in x-rays and CT scans are required to stand behind a protective glass shield when your pictures are being taken.

Do I need to do any preparation before I have a CT scan?

Most CT scans require preperation in order to ensure that the images are accurate. These will typically involve fasting and sometimes you will be asked to drink a contrast drink prior to your appointment.

What is contrast and why is it required?

Contrast usually comes in the form of a drink or an intra venous injection depending on the part of the body that is being observed. It is a benign liquid that shows up in the scan. Oral contrast will be used to line the bowel and digestive tract showing any irregularities in the surfaces. Intra venous contrast can be used to show if a lesion is vascular. A scan is performed before the contrast is given and after. Comparisons between the two scans show if there is any contrast within the lesion compared to before. If there is- the lesion is considered to be vascular and may require further investigation. If the lesion is not vascular then it will normally be considered benign.

Are there risks associated with with contrast?

Contrast is usually an iodine or barium based liquid. As such there is always a small chance that it may cause an allergic reaction. Before you are given he contrast you will be asked if you are allergic to iodine, shellfish or seafood. This is because shellfish and seafood has traces of iodine in them naturally and an allergy to them may indicate an allergy to iodine. In such cases, alternative contrasts can be considered.

Where can I get a CT examination and how much does it cost?

All CT examinations are available at all X-RAY & IMAGING practices and are bulk billed ($0) to all patients with a valid referral and a current Medicare, DVA or Work Cover card.*