Qscan offers a wide range of CT scans to support diagnosis, screening and treatment planning. Below are some of the most common specialised CT procedures we perform.

CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA)

This non-invasive scan produces detailed images of the coronary arteries to identify the presence, extent and severity of coronary plaques or atherosclerosis. Before the scan, your vital signs are checked and you may be given medication such as beta blockers to slow your heart rate, or GTN spray under the tongue. This causes your coronary arteries to dilate, making it easier to accurately assess the heart vessels on your scan. You’ll need to fast for two hours before your appointment (water is allowed), and avoid products containing caffeine (including tea), and coffee products (including soft drinks and chocolate). Please also avoid exercise on the day of your scan and Viagra, Cialis, or any medication used for erectile dysfunction for 72 hours. The scan uses an injected contrast agent and usually takes about two hours, including pre-scan preparation and post-scan monitoring.

CT Calcium Scoring

Alsn known as CTCS, this quick, non-contrast scan measures calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, which can help clinicians evaluate whether you are at an increased risk for heart attack. You'll need to avoid products containing caffeine (including tea), and coffee products (including soft drinks and chocolate). Please also avoid exercise on the day of your scan and Viagra, Cialis, or any medication used for erectile dysfunction for 72 hours. Your doctor uses the results to assess your cardiovascular risk and guide any preventive treatment.
 

CT Dentascan

A CT Dentascan creates 3D images of your upper and lower jaw and surrounding tissues. It is commonly used for assessing impacted teeth, and to diagnose disease of the teeth or jaw, which may require dental or surgical treatment. The scan takes around five minutes and does not require any special preparation, but metal objects such as hearing aids, dental plates, jewellery, keys, phone, coins should be removed beforehand. Radiation exposure is very low and there are no lasting effects after the scan.

Cone Beam CT (CBCT)

Available at select Qscan clinics, Cone Beam CT is used for surgical planning for impacted teeth, diagnosing temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), to accurately place dental implants, to detect and treat jaw tumours, and to diagnose and treat other complex cases. It captures detailed 3D images while rotating around the head and uses a lower dose of radiation than standard CT. The scan is fast, and you’ll need to remain still while it’s in progress. If you are pregnant or think you might be, let our staff know before the scan.

National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP)

As part of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, eligible patients aged 50 to 70 with a history of smoking can access free low-dose CT scans to detect lung cancer early, before symptoms appear. Qscan offers bulk billed CT scans at participating clinics. A GP referral and program enrolment via the National Cancer Screening Register are required before booking.

Preparing properly for your CT scan helps ensure safe and accurate results. Depending on the type of scan and whether contrast is used, preparation may vary. Our team will give you clear instructions when you book. In general, please follow these guidelines:

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing preferably with no metal. You may be asked to change into a gown.
• Remove any jewellery, glasses, hearing aids or dental plates before your scan.
• If your scan requires contrast, you may be asked to fast for a few hours and drink extra water to stay hydrated.
• For CT coronary angiography (CTCA) and CT Calcium Scoring (CTCS), avoid products containing caffeine (including tea), and coffee products (including soft drinks and chocolate). Please also avoid exercise on the day of your scan and Viagra, Cialis, or any medication used for erectile dysfunction for 72 hours.
• Let us know if you are pregnant or think you might be, as CT may not be recommended.
• Bring your referral, Medicare or concession card, and any previous scans or reports.
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to allow sufficient time for check-in and paperwork.

CT scans are considered safe and are widely used to diagnose a range of health conditions. They do involve a small amount of ionising radiation, but the dose is carefully controlled and kept as low as possible using modern equipment. Some scans require a contrast injection to help highlight certain areas of the body.

While side effects are rare, some people may experience mild symptoms such as warmth or nausea, and serious allergic reactions are extremely uncommon. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please inform the customer service team member booking the appointment, as alternative diagnostic imaging modalities may be utilised and arranged.

Yes, a valid referral from your GP, specialist or allied health provider is required to book a CT scan at Qscan.

Most CT scans take around 10 to 15 minutes. If your scan involves contrast or special preparation, you may need to allow more time.

CT scans are painless. If you are having a contrast injection, you might feel a brief warm sensation or a metallic taste, but this passes quickly.

If you are pregnant or think you may be, please let our team know before your scan. In most cases, we will recommend an alternative imaging method.

Yes, you can bring a support person. However, for safety reasons, they may need to wait in the reception area during your scan.

We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the day of your scan or bringing another adult with you to care for your child. Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.