|
There is a list of tests that you may or may not need to have. But either way we explain what the tests are, what they do and whats to be expected.
 Biopsy
Bloods
CT Scan <<<<
ERCP
MRI
Transplant
X-Ray
:: CT Scan
What is a CT scan? (Computerized Tomography)
CT is an abbreviation for computed tomography. The CT scanner is a large doughnut-shaped frame. You will lie on a bench that passes slowly through the scanner. The scanner takes x-rays of your body as you pass through it. A computer then helps us to create images of cross-sections of your body. A radiographer will carry out the scan. A radiologist will examine the images and send a report to the doctor who referred you for the test.
Why do I need a CT scan?
The scan will help your doctor to diagnose your condition and plan your treatment.
What happens during the scan?
The scan sometimes takes place in the main x-ray department, (check with your hospital). Staff will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions that you might have. You will be awake throughout the scan. You will be asked to lie on a bench that moves gently through the scanner. You will not feel or hear anything as you pass through the scanner, except for the radiographer telling you when to breathe in or out or to hold your breath. This is to make sure that we get the most accurate images. It is important that you follow all of the instructions given to you. The scan itself takes 20-60 seconds, but you should expect to be in the department for 20 minutes to 2 hours depending on the clinical informartion and site the doctor has asked to scan.
Do I need to prepare for the scan?
You can eat and drink normally and take any medication that you may be on before your scan. If you are a diabetic taking Metformin, you will have to stop taking this for 48 hours before and after the scan, (again check with your hospital first). Please contact your doctor for further advice. When you arrive in the CT department, you may have to prepare for the scan. This will depend on which part of your body is to be scanned and not everyone requires it. You may need to take a drink of ‘contrast medium’ between 20 minutes to one hour before your scan. This ‘contrast medium’ comes in the form of an aniseed-flavoured drink. The fluid outlines your bowel and shows up on x-rays. It allows us to see your bowel and internal organs more clearly.
Will I have an injection?
This will depend on the area being examined. Some patients will have a ‘contrast medium’ injected into their blood supply. This is a special dye that outlines your blood supply and organs and shows up on x-rays.
Are there any risks involved?
CT scans have a higher radiation dose than other x-rays but the benefit to the patient of a quick and accurate diagnosis can be balanced against this. The scan can be dangerous if you are pregnant – please make sure that you tell your hospital if you are or could be pregnant. Please also let them know in advance if you are allergic to shellfish or iodine, or have asthma. Some patients may be allergic to the contrast medium that the hospital may need to use. If this is the case, you may need to have steroid treatment the day before the scan. There are usually no side effects from the scan, drink or injection. You can leave the department immediately after the scan.
Source: http://www.kingshealth.com/patients/index.htm
|
