During your scan you will lie on a long table which 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 that you remain still and follow the instructions given to you during 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 which 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. This 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.  

Generally CT examinations take around 10-15 minutes but may be longer depending on the specific type of scan you are having. This allows time for you to change into a gown if required, and for your radiographer to explain the scan to you, position you on the CT table and insert a cannula for administering IV contrast if required. 

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 required to wear a gown, as some materials and embellishments can 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.  

There are two components of CT scanning which 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 need to have contrast for your scan, a radiographer or nurse will go through a consent process with you to assess your individual risk factor, 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 team member booking the appointment, as alternative diagnostic imaging modalities may be arranged. 

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

Please contact your preferred clinic for all quotes and enquiries. Our friendly customer service team can advise you of any costs involved with your CT scan, including any out-of-pocket costs. 

We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the time of your scan, or have another adult accompany you to the appointment to care for your child.

Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area. 

Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.