Preparation
You will have your test in the X-ray department. You will take off most of your clothes and put on a hospital gown.

The person carrying out the test (a doctor or radiographer) will explain what is going to happen, and answer any questions you have.

You may have an injection or drink of a special liquid called contrast medium. This helps the doctor or radiographer to get the clearest possible scan pictures. Afterwards the liquid passes harmlessly out of the body.

Rarely – depending on the part of the body being scanned – liquid may be put into the rectum (back passage), or a tampon may be put into a woman’s vagina. The procedure varies from hospital to hospital.

The scan
To have the scan done, you lie on your back on a couch. The scanner is shaped like a large polo mint. Once you are ready, the couch starts to move through it very slowly.

The test doesn’t hurt, but you may feel a bit uncomfortable because you have to lie still on the hard couch.

You may be asked to follow some instructions – for example, you may need to hold your breath for a few seconds.

The scan itself may take anything from a minute or two, up to half an hour. It depends on the type of machine being used. However, your visit will take longer than this – for example you may be asked to arrive a little while beforehand to prepare for the test.

What about afterwards?
You may be asked to stay for a short time, while the doctor or radiographer checks that the pictures are good enough.

Then you will probably be able to go home. If you don’t need any more tests, you can start eating and drinking normally. There are no after-effects.

When will I get the results?
A copy of the results will be sent to the person who referred you for the test (usually your GP or hospital doctor).

Your doctor will arrange an appointment so that you can talk about the test results a few days later. If you don't have a date for this, please ask.

Where can I get more information?
Remember, your doctors and nurses are there to help you. If you have any questions about your symptoms or your CT scan, don’t be afraid to ask.