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CT scan

Your consultant may recommend a CT scan because it is the most accurate way for us to make an accurate diagnosis of certain conditions.

You may feel nervous about your scan, but we don’t want you to worry. You can ask our friendly and experienced consultant radiologists and radiographers any questions.

CT scans take a series of X-rays of your inner body from different angles, combining them into a clear cross-sectional image. With CT scans, the radiologist can detect tiny abnormalities because of the detail in the images.

Early detection of disease and injury allows for effective treatment planning. Injections of contrast may cause an allergic reaction or minor reaction if they are administered during an examination. Our medical teams are trained to deal with this if it happens. In your appointment letter, you will find a phone number you can reach us at if you have any concerns about this.

The SOMATOM X.cite CT scanner

Generates comprehensive information that can help radiologists diagnose with precision and confidence.

With excellent image quality, the innovative system allows radiographers to prepare a scan whilst standing next to you - enabling radiographers to spend more time by your side.

What is a CT scan?

CT - Computerised Tomography. Images of the body are taken using X-rays during a scan. By using a computer, it creates "slices" (cross-sections) of internal organs and the body.

Some terms you may hear during your appointment:

Radiographer - a professional trained to take X-rays and scans.

Radiologist - a doctor specialising in interpreting X-rays.

Outpatient - being an outpatient simply means you are coming in to see us for an appointment. You don’t stay overnight.

CT scanner with patient
Is a CT scan safe?

The CT scan, like other X-ray imaging exams, exposes you to a small amount of ionizing radiation. Radiation exposure varies depending on how much of your body is scanned during a CT scan.

CT scanners are designed to make sure you're not exposed to unnecessarily high levels of radiation.

In general, the amount of radiation you're exposed to during each scan is the equivalent of between a few months and a few years of exposure to natural radiation from the environment. In all cases, the clinician who refers you for a CT scan will ensure that the benefits of the information provided by the scan outweigh the risks associated with the radiation dose.

A CT scan may not be suitable for everyone. If you are or there is a possibility that you might be pregnant, please contact us as we may not be able to scan you.

Click on the image and you'll see the CT scanner actively scanning.

How long does a CT scan take?

A CT scan appointment can last up to 40 minutes, depending on the area of your body being scanned. The actual scan takes less than a minute. However, for around half this time you will be lying down on the scanner. You will be given preparation instructions specific to your scan when you book your appointment - please make sure you read these carefully.

Accessing private healthcare is easy, whether you choose to use your private medical insurance or pay privately.

If paying privately, you may choose to consider spreading the cost of your surgery by opting for a monthly payment plan. See self-pay guide prices here.

We aim to make our costs as transparent as possible, but it’s important to talk everything through in detail with your consultant at the time of your appointment. If you have insurance, we can arrange direct settlement with your insurance provider but do encourage you to check in advance to see if your treatment is covered.

You can book your appointment directly by calling 01761 422250

Treatment Overview

Combining a calming hospital environment with outstanding patient care so you can recover as quickly as possible.

  • Average procedure duration Up to 40 minutes

  • Covered by health insurance? Yes

  • Can I pay privately? Yes

You’re in safe hands at Sulis Hospital.

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