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Advanced
Imaging Point
The House of Imaging

Service 02 · CT Scan

Computed Tomography

Fast, precise cross-sections - when detail and time both matter.

Typical time
Scan: seconds–minutes; allow 15–30 min
Radiation
Low-dose X-rays, only when indicated
Preparation
Fasting & kidney report for contrast studies
Report ready
Report typically within 60 minutes

What it shows

CT uses finely controlled X-rays to produce thin cross-sectional images of the head, chest, abdomen, bones and blood vessels - often within a single breath-hold.

  • Head & sinuses
  • Chest & lungs
  • Abdomen & pelvis
  • Bones & trauma
  • CT angiography

Your examination

What to expect, step by step

  1. 01

    Check in with your prescription; for contrast studies, bring your recent kidney-function (creatinine) report.

  2. 02

    You lie on a table that moves smoothly through a short, open ring - most patients find it comfortable.

  3. 03

    You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the scan.

  4. 04

    If contrast is used, a brief warm sensation or metallic taste is common and passes quickly.

  5. 05

    A radiologist reviews the study and prepares your report; timing is confirmed at the desk.

Preparation

Before you come

Plain CT usually needs no preparation. Contrast CT typically requires a few hours of fasting and a recent creatinine report - exact instructions are confirmed when you book.

Full guide: Preparing for a CT (plain & contrast)

Your report

What you take home, and when

Report ready

Typically within 60 minutes of the scan

Collection

  • Secure digital access to your images and report
  • Printed report and films on request at the front desk

Discussing findings

The reporting radiologist can discuss findings with your referring doctor - ask at the desk and we will arrange it.

Safety & screening

CT involves X-rays, so it is performed when your doctor considers it indicated - and planned to keep dose as low as reasonably achievable.

  • Tell us if you are, or might be, pregnant before any X-ray-based examination.
  • For contrast studies, inform us about kidney disease, diabetes (including metformin), asthma, significant allergies or any previous reaction to contrast.
  • Our team reviews your kidney function before contrast injection and observes you afterwards.
  • Unless your doctor has restricted fluids, drink water after a contrast scan to help clear the dye.

Questions

Asked before every CT scan

CT uses X-rays, so it is performed only when your doctor judges the information is needed. Protocols are planned to keep radiation as low as reasonably achievable for the question being answered.

Contrast dye is cleared by the kidneys. A recent creatinine value lets the team confirm the injection is appropriate for you, or adapt the study if it is not.

A warm flush and a metallic taste for a few seconds are common and settle on their own. The team observes you during and after the injection - tell them immediately if you feel unwell.

Take routine medicines as usual unless your doctor has said otherwise. If you take metformin for diabetes and a contrast injection is planned, tell our team - its timing may need adjusting around the study.

CT reports are typically ready within 60 minutes of scan completion, and your images and report are available through secure digital access. Urgent clinical questions are prioritised - tell us when you arrive.

Book a scan

Ready for your CT scan?

Request an appointment and our team will confirm timing and preparation with you personally.