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CT Scanning

CT SCANNING INFORMATION

 

CT scans (or CAT scans) are diagnostic tests which acquire complex anatomical data through the use of X-Rays. These scans are performed by a Radiographer and later interpreted by a Specialist Doctor.

 

CT Scanning is used to detect the presence or absence of many different conditions all over the body. CT scanning is used to assess both bone and soft tissue structures for the diagnosis of cancers, infectious diseases, appendicitis, trauma and musculoskeletal disorders.

 

Independent X-Ray & Ultrasound offers a wide variety of general CT Imaging. We are happy to provide scans with and without IV contrast. All CT Imaging is performed on our Toshiba Activion 16 Slice.

 

ALL CT SCANS ARE PERFORMED ON A WALK-IN OR APPOINTMENT BASIS.

 

ALL OUR SERVICES ARE BULK BILLED FOR ALL MEDICARE CARD HOLDERS

 

CT SCANNING WITH CONTRAST

 

Under certain circumstances a CT scan may require an injection of IV contrast in order to better visualise your anatomy. You will usually be informed at the time of booking if you require an IV contrast injection.

 

IV contrast is an iodine based solution that will be injected into your body during the CT scan through a cannula in your arm. During the injection of IV contrast most people will feel a warm sensation wash through their body along with a metallic taste in the back of their mouth. These sensations are completely routine and will pass within a few minutes.

 

The IV contrast used in our CT is generally a safe drug, however, like all drugs it can in very rare instances lead to side effects in some patients. Patients undergoing an IV contrast injection will be required to fill in a routine information questionnaire, usually at the time of booking. At this time patients should advise staff if they have experienced an allergy to IV contrast in the past, are diabetic or have problems with their renal function. These factors may affect the decision to administer IV contrast. A copy of the patient questionairre is available below.

 

 

PATIENT PREPARATION

 

 

Some types of CT scans may require you to prepare before the scan. Please see the overview of CT preparation below to see if this applies to you.

 

ABDOMINAL AND PELVIS CT SCANS

 

Abdominal CT Scans require certain preparation in order to ensure the best quality imaging. Patients undergoing an abdominal CT scan of any kind will be required to:

          - Drink 2 litres of water the day before your examination

          - Fast for 2 hours prior to the exam

          - Drink 1L of water in the 1 hour prior to your examination, you DO NOT need to hold 

      

OTHER IV CONTRAST CT SCANS

 

CT scans that require an injection of IV contrast require special preparation before you arrive. All patients undergoing a contrast scan are required to:

          - Drink 2 litres of water the day before your examination

          - Fast for 2 hours prior to the exam

          - Drink 1L of water in the 1 hour prior to your examination, you DO NOT need to hold 

          - If you are a DIABETIC stop taking any medication containing Metformin the day of your                            appointment and for 2 days after the examination

 

ALL OTHER CT SCANS

CT Scans of the BRAIN, SPINE, ARMS AND LEGS usually require no preparation.

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OUR RECEPTION STAFF WILL ADVISE YOU OF THE APPROPRIATE PREPARATION FOR YOUR SCAN AT THE TIME OF APPOINTMENT.

 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERIES REGARDING YOUR PREPARATION PLEASE CONTACT US ON

(07) 4123 6404

ON THE DAY OF YOUR CT SCAN

 

You should wear comfortable clothing and remove all jewellery prior to arriving at IXU. When you arrive on the day of the CT scan our staff may ask you to change into a gown depending on the area been scanned. 

 

At your appointment  a Radiographer will escort you into the CT Scanner room. At this time they will take the time to explain the procedure you are undergoing today and may go over your medical history. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have regarding the procedure.

 

After this the Radiographer will ask you to lie down on the CT scanner table and will help to position you appropriately for the scan. If you are having IV contrast administered for the scan, at this stage the Radiographer will also need to place the needle into your arm for the injection.

 

A CT scan itself is generally easy, fast and painless. You will be required to lie flat on the table for several minutes, which can be uncomfortable for some patients. During the examination you may receive instructions such as to hold your breath.

 

During the scan you will be alone in the CT scanner with the Radiographer operating the machine from a windowed control room.

 

If IV Contrast is used you will likely experience a warm sensation, a metallic taste and a feeling like you have to urinate as it is injected. This experience will last for approximately 1-2 minutes and will pass quickly.

 

After the CT Scan you will be able to resume your normal activities. 

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