CT

CT (Computed Tomography) scanning uses 3D X-rays to create a quick and very accurate picture of structures inside the body. It is used in the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis and limbs for numerous medical indications.

If you attend for a CT scan, you will be asked to lie on a table on the machine which moves through a circular gantry. The gantry enables x-rays to rotate around the patient which are then detected by the machine. This information is passed to a computer to construct 3-dimensional imaging. These images are anatomically very accurate and the data can be manipulated for all sorts of purposes on a workstation so that your Radiologist can get very detailed information and make an accurate medical diagnosis of your problem.

The scan itself can take only a few seconds but radiological techniques can vary depending upon the reason for the scan; some patients may have to drink some water or an oral contrast agent before the scan. You will be advised as to the necessary timings required. Most commonly, patients have a CT scan with an injection of contrast (x-ray dye) in a vein in their hand or arm. This injection gives dye into the vessels and organs throughout the body which is helpful for diagnosis. In some situations, no contrast is required.

CT scanning has improved dramatically over the years, now enabling Radiologists to view scans in multiple planes and create complex 3D reconstructions that assist in diagnosis and planning interventional radiology procedures. For example, CT Angiograms enable the demonstration of arteries in a non-invasive manner reducing the requirement for being admitted to hospital for more traditional invasive diagnostic tests. CT also has the benefit of a lower complication rate in such a situation.

We can offer CT scanning privately at both BMI The Meriden Hospital and The Warwickshire Nuffield Hospital.