What to Expect Before, During and After a CT Scan
Picture this, you have just finished a consultation with your doctor and they have referred you for a CT scan. It is only natural to have questions about why the scan was recommended, what the procedure involves and what happens after the procedure.
A CT scan is often perceived as a stressful procedure and an anxiety-inducing experience. By better understanding what to expect from the scan, we hope to better prepare you for your scan and put your mind at ease.
Why Has My Doctor Recommended a CT Scan?
To better understand why you’ve been referred for a CT scan, it helps to first understand what the examination involves and how it helps your doctor.
A CT (computed tomography) scan is an advanced imaging examination that allows doctors to look inside the body in greater detail than a standard X-ray. During a CT scan, X-rays are taken from multiple angles as the scanner moves around your body. This creates detailed cross-sectional images of the area being examined and allows your doctor to investigate a range of symptoms and medical conditions.
Bear in mind that when your doctor refers you for a CT scan, it does not automatically mean that something is seriously wrong. The scan gives your doctor a detailed look inside your body so they can figure out the best way to help you.
The images produced during the scan help them investigate your symptoms, confirm or rule out possible conditions, and determine the most appropriate next steps in your care. Common reasons for a CT scan include investigating head and brain injuries, chest and lung conditions, abdominal and pelvic concerns, as well as detecting and monitoring cancer.
Preparing for Your Scan
Now that you have been booked in for an appointment, you may be wondering if there is anything you have to do to prepare. Before your appointment, either your referring doctor or a member of our team will let you know if there is anything you need to do. Depending on the type of scan you are having, you may be given specific preparation instructions, such as fasting for a few hours beforehand or adjusting your medication.
On the day of your appointment, a member of our team will explain the procedure and allow you to ask any questions. Depending on the scan your doctor requested, you may also be given contrast, which is administered by injection to produce clearer images of the area being examined. Before receiving it, be sure to let the radiographer know about any allergies you may have.
If a contrast is used during the scan, you may notice a slight warm or tingling sensation or feel a metallic taste in your mouth for a few moments. In both instances, the effects are only temporary and will pass quickly.
What Happens During the Scan?
Before you step into the CT examination room, you will be asked to undress and remove any metal items – metal items can disrupt the scan by causing dark patches or streak marks to appear in the images. These are known as image artefacts and can interfere with the radiologist’s ability to interpret the scan. You will then receive a gown to change into before entering the CT room.
When you are ready, you will be instructed to lie on the motorised table and receive further instructions through an in-built intercom system in the CT scanner. Follow the radiologist’s instructions and the scan will be done in no time.
What Happens After My Scan?
With the scan complete, you can get redressed and go about your day – unless you have been advised otherwise. The radiologist will then analyse the images from your CT scan and, in some cases, your doctor may also review them to help determine a diagnosis.
Once your results have been reviewed, your doctor may call you or schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss them with you and answer any questions you may have. Based on the results, your doctor will discuss the next steps with you. This could include ongoing treatment, further tests or monitoring.
A Clearer Understanding of Your Health
The results from a CT scan can be lifesaving and allow your doctor to understand and treat your condition.
By explaining what happens before, during and after your CT scan, we hope to give you some much-needed peace of mind. At MBRI, our goal is to help you feel informed, supported, and reassured throughout your journey.