What happens during a CT scan?

The CT team will show you into the scanner room and will help you get into the right position on the couch.

Some people need to have a contrast medium to produce more detailed images, which involves an injection of dye. For this, a small needle (cannula) will be put into your arm/hand. You may experience a strange taste and you may feel a little warm for a short while. If you need contrast medium, you may also need to have a blood test before your scan as a precaution and to check your kidney function.

If you are having an injection of contrast a member of staff will go through the safety questions with you, and you’ll be asked to sign it.

When you are comfortable, the CT table moves you very slowly towards the hole in the centre of the ‘polo’ shaped scanner. The scanner will then produce the images.

The CT team will be in the control room, but you will be able to talk to them via an intercom and they can see you on a screen.

You may be asked to hold your breath during the scans to prevent any blurring on the image. If at any time you feel worried or uncomfortable you can let the CT team know using the intercom and they will do what they can to help.