What should you know about a GE Discovery CT scanner?

CT images are reconstructed into slices that can be viewed individually or combined into a three-dimensional picture. Clinicians may use them to examine the chest, abdomen, pelvis, bones, blood vessels, or a known tumour. The scanner is shaped like a short tunnel, so most of the body is not enclosed. Unlike MRI, CT uses ionising radiation, and the team chooses the examination when its expected information is useful for care.

Follow the imaging service’s instructions about eating, drinking, and medicines. Tell staff about pregnancy, kidney disease, diabetes medicines, allergies, or any previous reaction to contrast. Contrast may be swallowed or given through a vein, depending on the area being examined. You will need to lie still; brief breath-holding instructions may be used. The technologist can hear and speak with you throughout.

During contrast administration, report itching, wheezing, chest tightness, nausea, pain, or a feeling of warmth that concerns you. After leaving, seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, throat or facial swelling, faintness, or a rapidly spreading rash. Tell your clinician about persistent vomiting or reduced urine output after the examination, particularly if contrast was used.

What area will the CT examine, and is contrast needed? How should I prepare? How will the findings fit with my other tests, and when will the report be available?