Downloadable brochure - CT Scan
What is a CT scan?
CT stands for computed tomography. A CT scanner is a machine that takes pictures of the inside of your body.
On the day…
You may need to get ready for your CT scan before you come to see us. Ask your parent or carer to tell you what you need to do.
After you arrive for your visit, you will be asked to change from your clothes into one of our gowns. You will then be taken into the CT room.
Someone will help you on to the table that you need to lie on. All you need to do is rest and lie as still as possible. The doctor’s helper will be in the room next door to you. You will be able to hear and talk to him or her if you wish.
The table that you lie on will move slowly through the doughnut-shaped machine. As the machine moves around you it will take pictures of your body. You may need to hold your breath for a few seconds during this time.
You may need an injection to show the doctor certain parts of the inside of your body.
The test will take between 10 and 30 minutes.
Once your pictures have been taken you will be able to change back into your normal clothes. The pictures and a report will be given to you to take to your doctor.
A note to parents and carers
We suggest that you read this brochure with your child before coming to see us. Most children accept the examination more readily if they know what to expect on the day.
We find that many children feel more at ease if they are able to bring their favourite toy or blanket with them for comfort. Most children enjoy a treat after the procedure, so perhaps you would like to bring a reward with you.
Should your child require an intravenous injection please be aware that there is a small chance of an allergic reaction to the contrast “dye”. We only use modern non-ionic contrast, which rarely causes any significant reactions. We have fully qualified staff at the practice to assist if this does occur.
Please tell the staff if your child has had any form of reaction to x-ray contrast before or if they are asthmatic.
Please follow the preparation information below. Please bring with you any previous x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs or CT scans that your child may have.
If you, or your child, has any concerns regarding the procedure, please discuss them with the radiographer (medical imaging technologist) who performs the scan or the doctor (Radiologist).
If your child suffers from claustrophobia he/she may need sedation for the test. Please inform the receptionist of this when you book the appointment.
Patient Preparation Guidelines
Abdomen/Pelvis - Drink clear fluids for 4 hours prior to examination including 500mls in the hour before examination appointment time unless advised otherwise, at time of making appointment.
Preparation is not required for other CT procedures.