Adult patients having a CT scan of the head or sinuses

What is a CT scan?

A CT (Computed Tomography) scanner is an X-ray machine which produces images of the inside of the body. The scanner is made up of a ‘doughnut’ shaped structure (gantry), about 2 feet thick and a couch on which you will be asked to lie on. This couch will pass through the scanner.

The X-rays produced by the CT scanner pass through your body and are detected by electronic sensors on the other side of the gantry. The information passes to a computer which then produces a picture of the internal structures of the body. The pictures are displayed on a computer and will be examined by the Radiologist at a later date.

Are there any risks?

CT scanning uses X-rays; this is a form of ionising radiation. The amount of radiation is equal to the natural radiation we all receive from the atmosphere over a period of about 3 years. This adds very slightly to the lifetime risk of developing a cancer. However, Cancer Research UK predicts that 1 in 2 of us will develop a cancer at some stage during our lives, so this additional risk is very small (about 1 in 2000 after 20 years). This examination has been considered beneficial for you, and the need outweighs the risks associated with radiation.

Are there any special preparations?

Please remove any items of jewellery from your head and neck before attending for your appointment as we are unable to offer secure facilities for safe storage of valuables in the department.

Can I bring a relative or a friend?

You can bring a friend or relative to wait with you, however for safety reasons they cannot join you in the CT scanning room. Any other persons accompanying you will be asked to wait outside the department during your examination.

Please bear in mind we cannot accept responsibility for children under 16 within the department while you are having your examination.

When you arrive

It is important to let a member of the team know if you are pregnant, or even if there is a chance that you might be pregnant. Similarly, you should let the Radiology staff know if you have diabetes, asthma or any allergies.

Who will I see?

You will be cared for by a small team including a Radiographer, Nurse and Radiographic Care Assistant. A Radiologist will review the images later before writing a report on the findings.

Giving your consent (permission)

You may withdraw your consent at any time; we are happy to answer any questions you may have or address any concerns to help you decide regarding your diagnostic test.

The Radiology Department plays an important role in the training of future healthcare professionals. The part patients play in this is vital in ensuring we produce the right quality of healthcare professionals for the future. If at any time you would prefer not to have students present, please inform the team looking after you. This will not impact on your care in any way.

What happens during the CT scan?

You will be taken to the scanning room and made comfortable lying on the couch with your head supported in a holder. The couch will be moved slowly to position your head within the ‘doughnut ‘gantry. During the scan you will be required to remain still.

During the scan the Radiographers will be in an adjoining control room, but there is a microphone and a speaker so you will be able to communicate at all times, and the Radiographer will be able to see you through a window in the control room.

Reasonable Adjustments

If you require assistance or adjustments for your scan and/or you hold a Health Passport, please contact the appointments team on the number on your letter to discuss these.

If you would like to visit the department prior to your appointment, please let the appointments team know and we can arrange this.

If you have a RESPECT form, please bring this along to your appointment. You may also wish to discuss your scan and RESPECT form with your clinician prior to attending your appointment.

Commonly asked questions

Will it be uncomfortable?

You should not feel any pain, although some people do have slight discomfort from having to lie still.

Patients usually tolerate this examination well, but if this makes you feel anxious about, please tell the Radiographer straight away.

How long will it take?

Your scan will likely take no more than 5 minutes, however there are circumstances which may need further imaging.

Are there any side effects?

No.

Can you eat and drink afterwards?

Yes.

When will I get the results?

After your visit, the Radiologist will look at the images from your CT scan and prepare a report on the findings. This will be sent to the Doctor that referred you. The Radiographer is unable to give you any results after your scan.

Contact information

If you have any questions about having the CT scan, please contact the CT Appointments Team on the number shown on your appointment letter. Calls can be made Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 5:00 pm.

We are pleased that we can offer state of the art technology for diagnosis. However, radiology equipment needs constant updating and there is a charitable fund for this. If you would like to donate, please send a cheque to the address below. Cheques should be made payable to GHNHSFT.

Administration Manager, Dept of Radiology (Imaging 1), Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, Great Western Road, Gloucester GL1 1NN