Healthcare Info

You'll normally see it referred to by either of its shortened forms - CT scan or CAT scan - but its full title is a Computerized Axial Tomography scan.

It is an x-ray procedure which combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body.

While a conventional X-ray is used to view bones in the body, CT scanning is the route to go when your medical team are trying to differentiate between normal and abnormal structures. It is used mainly to provide information for procedures such as biopsies, or to form an opinion on the treatment of suspected cancers.

CT scanning is completely painless. In many ways, it's like a normal X-ray that takes more time. The only mild discomfort you may experience is if iodine-containing contrast material needs to be injected into your body and you suffer an allergic reaction.

This is very rare and usually results in itching or a rash which goes away quickly. If you have a history of allergy, you should let your doctor and the radiology staff know of the problem.

A CT scan is also a very low-risk procedure. The amount of radiation you receive during a CT scan is minimal. As always, however, make sure you mention it if you are pregnant, in which case an ultrasound scan may be used instead.

CT scans are carried out to examine the internal structures of the body such as:

• The head after injuries or to detect tumours and infections
• The spine and vertebral discs
• The density of bone - to detect osteoporosis
• The chest - to identify tumours, cysts, or infections
• Body organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, aorta, kidneys, uterus, and ovaries.

You will probably be asked to avoid food and fluids for several hours before the scan - especially when contrast material is being used. All metallic materials (including jewellery, belt buckles, etc.) and also some clothing may be removed as they can interfere with the clarity of the images.

You are placed on a movable table, and the table is moved into the path of a large donut-shaped machine. X-ray images are taken around the body and your scan can take from thirty minutes to an hour and a half.

It is important that you remain as still and quiet as possible. The CT technologist will tell you when to breathe or hold your breath during a scan of the chest and abdomen. The technologist will also keep an eye on you through an observation window during the scan and there will be an intercom to let you talk to each other if you need any clarification on various instructions.

After the CT scan is finished, a report is sent to the consultant or GP who requested the scan, and he will discuss the results with you as soon as possible.

To have a CT scan, you need to be referred by your consultant or G.P.

Hibernian Aviva Health covers more scan centres than any other health insurer and we even have direct settlement arrangements with our approved centres, so you don't have to submit a claim.

For a list of approved scan centres, please visit the health provider search.