🩻 CT Scan (Computed Tomography)

A fast, detailed imaging test that combines X-rays with computer technology to produce cross-sectional views of the body.

🔍 What is it?

A CT scan (also called a CAT scan) uses multiple X-ray images taken from different angles and merges them using computer software to create detailed cross-sectional images of bones, organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues.

It’s especially useful for detecting internal injuries, tumours, infections, or abnormalities that may not be seen on a standard X-ray.

🧪 What does it show?

• Organs: lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, etc.
• Bones: fractures, degeneration
• Blood vessels: clots, aneurysms, blockages
• Tumours or abnormal masses
• Inflammation, fluid buildup, infections
• Injuries or trauma (e.g., after accidents)

📈 It’s a quick and reliable way to get detailed internal information, particularly in emergency or urgent cases.

🔎 Note:

Sometimes a contrast dye is used to enhance image clarity. This may be swallowed, injected, or given as an enema depending on the scan area. Inform your doctor if you have kidney issues or iodine allergies.

❓ Why might I need it?

You may be advised to have a CT scan if you experience:

🚑 Sudden trauma, chest or abdominal pain
🫁 Persistent cough or abnormal lung findings
🧠 Headaches, stroke symptoms, or confusion
⚡ Suspected internal bleeding
💊 Monitoring cancer or checking for tumour spread
🩸 Blood vessel problems like aneurysms or clots

🧬 Conditions it can help detect:

• Stroke or brain injury
• Lung conditions (e.g., pneumonia, cancer)
• Abdominal issues (e.g., appendicitis, kidney stones)
• Bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s, diverticulitis)
• Liver or pancreatic abnormalities
• Bone fractures or spinal degeneration
• Cancer detection, staging, and follow-up

🩺 How is it done?

You’ll lie on a flat table that moves slowly through a circular scanner (like a doughnut).

📷 The scanner takes multiple images in seconds.
💉 If contrast is used, it may cause a warm sensation.
🧘 You may be asked to hold your breath briefly during the scan.

⏳ Scan time: 10–30 minutes depending on area

💷 Typical Private Cost in the UK:

💰 £400–£900
💡 Cost varies depending on the area scanned and whether contrast is used

✅ Commonly Combined With:

🧪 Blood tests – to check for infection, inflammation, or tumour markers
🩻 Chest X-ray or MRI – for a broader picture or more detail
🔬 Biopsy – if an abnormal mass is detected
🫀 ECG or Echo – if scanning heart or chest

📚 References:

• NHS – CT Scan Overview
• British Institute of Radiology – Patient Guidance
• NICE – Diagnostic Imaging Recommendations