Computed tomography (CT) uses X-rays to create cross sectional images of your body.  The X-ray beam is rotated around the body, captured on detectors and processed by a computer to give images in ‘slices’.  This information can be viewed at many angles and in different ways, including 3-dimensional rendered images.

Patients referred to Taranaki Radiology for a CT examination will have their scan performed on the either:

• our CT scanner at our premises at Fulford Street or
• Taranaki Base Hospital on one of our dedicated sessions.

Some CT examinations require preparation prior to your appointment which will be discussed with you at the time of making your appointment.  The preparation for the scan varies depending on the area of the body to be scanned. For example, Abdominal CT scans may require you to fast from food and fluids for a period of time and then drink a special drink over the hour before your scan.  This is to show the intestines clearly on the scan.  If you are having an examination requiring IV contrast media then we will also require a recent blood test result to check your kidney function.

Patient information

Your doctor has referred you to Taranaki Radiology for a CT scan.  A CT scanner uses x-rays to acquire a volume of data. This data can be reconstructed into cross sectional images of the soft tissue and bony structures in your body.

If any of the following apply to you – please contact us at Taranaki Radiology as soon as possible on 06 759 4317:

• You have been given an appointment with the consultant who referred you to CT within 2 days of this appointment as the scan results may not be available.
• You are pregnant.
• Your weight is over 180kg.

Before arriving

• Please continue to take any medication you are on.
• Please drink plenty of fluids on the day prior, and following your CT.
• Please read the appointment letter for any special preparation instructions.
• You may need to wear a hospital gown for your examination, so please wear clothing that can be changed easily.
• Metal objects including jewelry or body piercings over the area being examined may degrade the CT images and should be left at home, or removed prior to your examination.
• Generally, examinations run to a tight schedule, so please be on time. Though we do not anticipate any delays in your examination, please consider bringing a book, magazine, or music player to help you pass the time while you are waiting, as we do have to accommodate emergencies as they arise.

After arriving

• Please report to the Radiology Reception desk on arrival. Please advise the receptionist if you have private health insurance.
• The receptionist will check your details for accuracy and you will be directed to the waiting area.
• A radiology nurse or radiographer will collect you from the waiting area. They will check your name and date of birth, and may ask you a few questions regarding your medical history.
• You may be asked to change into a gown and/or remove items like jewelry or body piercings etc.

During your examination

• While positioning you on the CT examination table, the radiographer will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
• You will be asked to lie still on the CT examination table. In some cases, pillows or straps may be used to help you maintain the correct position and to hold still during the examination.
• When you enter the scanner, laser lights are used to accurately position you.
• The examination table you are on will slide into the scanner, covering the part of your body which is being studied. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to ‘see out’. We often refer to it as our ‘doughnut’.
• You will be alone in the examination room during the actual scan, however the radiographer will always be able to see, hear and speak to you. The time it takes to actually acquire images is very brief.
• With pediatric patients, a parent may be allowed in the room but will be required to wear a lead apron to reduce radiation exposure.
• The images will be reviewed, and if necessary, some may be repeated or additional scans performed.
• This procedure usually takes approximately 15-30 minutes.

After your examination

• A radiologist will examine your images and write a report of the findings.
• This report will be sent to the specialist and/or GP who referred you for the CT.
• Some scans need further computer processing and take longer to analyze. Results will be sent within 3 to 5 working days and sometimes sooner.
• We are unable to give you any information related to your results. Your Doctor will do this for you.
• If you are a private patient payment will be required at the time of your examination. However, if your scan is performed at Taranaki Base Hospital your invoice will be mailed out to you.

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