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What is a CT scan?
A CT scan, sometimes referred to as a CAT scan is a specialised x-ray examination that creates detailed images of internal organs in two dimensions (referred to as slices) and three dimensional (3D) imaging.
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Pre Examination |
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Please phone us for an appointment. The receptionist will:
- give you instructions regarding where to go for your CT scan
- explain how to arrange a "prior approval" from your medical insurance company - this means you can send them the invoice for payment, rather than pay it first and then make a claim
- You may need to have a barium drink to allow us to image some areas of the abdomen. We will explain this to you when you make your appointment.
Colostomy patients:
Please let the reception staff know about your colostomy, as your preparation may be different from the norm. Please take two spare colostomy bags with you to your CT appointment.
Contrast Medium
Sometimes the doctor will give you an injection of contrast medium, to allow soft tissues to be seen on x-rays. This will usually involve an injection into one of the veins in your hand or arm. The contrast medium will pass out through the kidneys.
Pregnancy
It is important that if you may be or are pregnant that you let us know when you make your appointment. If you are pregnant, your Doctor may advise you to have another radiology provedure. |
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The Examination |
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You will be asked to lie on a table, and a series of images will be taken of your abdomen and, or, pelvis. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes and is quite painless . |
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Post Examination |
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After the procedure you may leave immediately, and it is quite safe for you to drive. You can eat or drink normally. Often the radiologist will be able to give you a preliminary result at the time of the examination. The images will be reviewed later in the day, and a complete result sent to your doctor. If you have had a barium drink during your CT scan, you may wish to increase water and fibre consumption afterwards. |
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