Computed Tomography (CT) is a non-invasive exam that helps diagnose and treat a vast array of medical conditions.
At Apex Radiology we have the latest generation of low dose, multi-slice CT scanners, which allow for high detail imaging in 3D.
Computed tomography (CT) is a type of medical imaging that helps doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions. CT combines x-rays, an array of detectors that rotate around your body, and sophisticated computers to produce detailed cross-sectional and 3D images of your body.
At Apex Radiology we have the latest generation of multi-slice CT scanners, which allow for high detail imaging in 3D. CT scans of organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels provide improved clarity and information as part of a multi disciplinary approach.
CT scans are painless and straightforward. Examination time varies from 5 to 15 minutes depending on your study. Recent advancements now enable multi-slice CT scanners to obtain multiple cross-sectional slices during a single rotation.
All Apex Radiology radiographers have the necessary qualifications and experience to ensure the best patient care and high-quality images. All our radiographers are accredited and licensed by Australian Institute of Radiography.
Patient preparation for CT varies depending on the area of interest. If you are having CT of the abdomen, pelvis, chest or head, you should not eat for four (4) hours prior to your appointment, but keep well hydrated by drinking fluids. If you are having CT of the lumbar spine or sinuses, no preparation is required. When you make your appointment, our staff will advise you if you need to fast beforehand. For abdominal and pelvic CT, you may be required to drink water or oral contrast, which highlights the bowel, one (1) hour before your scan. Our booking staff will incorporate this into your appointment time, if needed.
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your CT scan. You may be asked to change into a gown before your scan. Metal objects, such as jewellery, piercings, eyeglasses, dentures, hearing aids or hairpins, may affect the CT images, so you will be asked to remove such items if possible. Women will be asked to remove bras containing metal underwire. If you have a pacemaker, please advise a staff member before your scan.
If you are pregnant or think that you might be pregnant, you should advise your referring doctor, as well as the CT radiographer, before your scan. In most cases x-rays should be avoided during pregnancy, but your doctor will weigh-up the risks and benefits.
Approximately 70% of patients having a CT scan need an injection of contrast media (or dye), usually through an arm vein. Because the contrast media is opaque on x-ray it shows the blood flow in organs and soft tissues, and can provide further information about the problem area. However, some people might be allergic to the contrast media.
Please advise our staff before your CT if you:
When you enter the CT room the radiographer will ask you to lie on the table, which will move you through the doughnut-shaped gantry that houses the x-ray tube and array of detectors. You will hear the movement of the x-ray tube and detectors as they rotate around you to create multiple cross-sectional images of the problem area. To obtain the clearest image, you will need to keep very still and you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds to avoid image blurring.
CT scans are generally painless, relatively fast and straightforward. The examination time varies, but averages around 15 minutes. Recent technology advancements now enable multi-slice CT scanners to obtain multiple cross-sectional slices during a single rotation. The resultant thinner slices show better detail and take less time.
If you require an injection of contrast media, it will be administered at this point via the radiographer or a machine pump. When the contrast is administered, patients often get a metallic taste in their mouth and feel a hot flushing warm sensation throughout the body. This warm sensation can concentrate around the groin and buttock region giving the feeling of emptying your bladder. Do not be concerned as these sensations are not an allergic reaction and will pass within a couple of minutes.
The radiographer or machine may give you breathing instructions, such as direct you to hold your breath briefly. All Apex Radiology radiographers have the necessary qualifications and experience to ensure the best patient care and high-quality x-rays. All of our radiographers are accredited and licensed by the Australian Institute of Radiography.
After your CT scan is completed, the CT radiographer will work on the data for some time to prepare the required images for the radiologist and the referring doctor.
The reconstructed images will be interpreted by our radiologist, who will produce a comprehensive report. Previous imaging will be compared if available to the Radiologist. The results of your scan will be sent directly to your referring Doctor, and it is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results.
As CT uses X-rays to recreate the pictures, our staff are highly trained to use the lowest radiation dose possible for high quality images, minimalizing radiation exposure and decreasing risks involved. The radiographer will only scan the area/s of concern, avoiding unnecessary exposure. The benefits of an X-ray generally out outweigh the risks involved.
Pregnant patients should avoid having a CT scan, in order to avoid exposing the fetus to unnecessary radiation.
There are very limited contra indications for CT, meaning almost anyone is eligible to have a CT scan. However, like anything that you introduce to the body there is a risk of allergy involved. Although rare there are some people that might be allergic to the contrast media.
The results of your scan will be sent directly to your referring Doctor, and it is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results.
Apex Radiology
Head Office
U3, 290 Pinjarra Road
MANDURAH, WA 6210
