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What is a CT scan?
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays and computers to take pictures of the insides of the person’s body. The scanner is a doughnut-shaped machine with a bed in the middle. Your child will be asked to lie down on this bed which then will move in and out of the scanner.
Depending on which body part is being looked at, the scan can take from 5 minutes to 20 minutes. Certain scans require an injection of ‘contrast’ which is a special dye which enhances the image quality. If this is required, a cannula (needle) will need to be inserted – this will be done by a trained member of staff.
There is a picture-based leaflet following this leaflet which you can give
to your child if they are able to read it.
Are there any alternatives?
Different imaging procedures are used for different diagnoses – some
are better than others for specific questions. A CT scan provides more
detail of the inside of the body than other imaging procedures such as
x-ray and ultrasound. The doctor who has asked for this scan will have
assessed the risks and benefits of this investigation before deciding to
go ahead.
A CT scan does involve exposure to radiation, however this is kept as
low as possible by the Radiographer who has had specialist training.
Before the appointment
Please ensure any relevant information in the appointment letter is followed, such as when to stop eating prior to the scan and what time to attend.
If the adult bringing the patient is pregnant, or there is a chance they are, they will not be allowed to remain in the scanner room during the scan. This is because the radiation can cause harm to the pregnancy.
If your child is 12 years old or older, they will be asked to confirm if they are pregnant, or could be pregnant. This is regardless of if your child is male or female, due to radiation laws. If you have any concerns or issues regarding this, please contact us.
The adult bringing the child for the scan should have ‘parental responsibility’ for them. This refers to the individual who has the legal right to make decisions for the child.
The day of the scan
Please refer to your appointment letter for information on when and were to attend. If your child is not having any anaesthetic or medication prior to the scan, you will be asked to come directly to CT. If they are having anaesthetic, you will be advised where to attend.
Prior to the scan, you (or your child if able to) will be asked to complete some questions to ensure they are able to have the scan. You will then be brought in to the scanner room by a Radiographer. You will be able to remain in the room during the scan if necessary to support your child, however if your child is able stay on their own in the room (under supervision from the control room by the Radiographer) then this is better for you.
If you are staying in the room during the scan, you will be asked to confirm you are not pregnant, and you will also need to wear a lead gown.
Your child will be asked to lie down on the scanner and then the Radiographer will go into the control room next door to perform thescan. The Radiographer will be able to see and hear in to the scan room at all times.
The scanner sounds like a train when it starts and your child may be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds, multiple times.
As soon as the scan is complete, and the images have been checked as good quality, your child will be taken off the scanner and advised on next steps. This will either be to go immediately home or minor observation time depending on the medication given.
After the scan
If your child is visiting as an outpatient, once you and your child are advised you are able to leave, you can return to normal routine. A Radiologist (specialist Radiology doctor) will review the images within a designated time frame based on the urgency of the scan. They will then send a report to the referring doctor who will contact you to discuss.
If your child is having the scan as an inpatient or via A&E, you will go back to the department you were seen in and the doctors will review the report written by the Radiologist and make a decision on the next step.
Any questions?
Please contact the Radiology department bookings team if you have
any questions or need to rebook an appointment on 0300 6134140
(Frimley or Aldershot), or 0300 6153554 (Wexham or Heatherwood).
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Radiology service.
About this information
Service:
Radiology
Reference:
PILS-CT.14
Approval date:
3 February 2025
Review date:
3 February 2028
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.