The specific preparation for CT imaging will vary depending on the type of scan requested and may include drinking water, fasting, or blood tests. A friendly customer service team member will inform you of any specific preparations required for your CT scan when you make your booking.  

Please wear loose clothing to your appointment, preferably with no metal. In some instances, you may be provided with a gown to wear, as some materials and embellishments may show up on CT images.

You may be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home.

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.  

During your scan, you will lie on a long table that moves through a doughnut-shaped CT scanner.

The CT scanner is not an enclosed tunnel and for most examinations, your head will remain outside of the machine.

It is important to remain still and follow the instructions given to you at the start of your scan. You may be required to hold your breath for 5 -10 seconds at various stages throughout your examination to help with image quality.  

Scans that assess the organs and the soft tissues of the neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis may require an injection of iodinated contrast. This contrast enters your bloodstream and highlights the different tissues and structures within your body and can assist the radiologist in assessing and reporting the findings of your scan. The contrast is excreted by the kidneys and leaves your body via your urine.  

Most CT examinations take no more than 10-15 minutes but may be longer depending on the specific type of scan you are having. This allows time for the technician to get you changed if required, explain the scan to you, position you on the CT table and insert a cannula for administering IV contrast if required. 

There are two components of CT scanning that have potential risks. These are radiation dose and the use of intravenous contrast. CT scans use x-rays which carry a very small radiation risk. The radiation exposureis kept to a minimum, and health experts feel the benefits of the diagnostic information obtained usually outweigh any potential risks.  

 It is possible, but rare, to have a reaction to the contrast used in CT imaging. If you are required to have contrast for your scan, a technician or nurse will go through a consent process with you to assess individualrisk factors, outline the potential risks and give you an opportunity to ask questions. 

 If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please inform the customer service team member booking yourappointment, as alternative diagnostic imaging modalities may be utilised and arranged. 

A general CT scan does not require any specific after care. After your scan, you may continue with your normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner. 

The cost of your CT scan depends on several factors, and our Customer Service Team can advise you of all costs involved with your CT, including any out-of-pocket costs (if relevant).