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A CT scan typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes from the time you enter the scanning room. The actual image acquisition itself is remarkably fast, often just a few seconds to a couple of minutes depending on the body area. Most of the appointment time is spent on preparation, including checking in, changing into a gown if needed, positioning you on the scanner table, and administering contrast if required. CT angiography studies or multi-phase abdominal scans that require images at different time intervals after contrast injection may take slightly longer. You can expect to be in and out of the department within 30 to 45 minutes for a routine study.

CT scanning is considered very safe when performed for an appropriate clinical indication. While it does use ionizing radiation, the dose from a single scan is low and the diagnostic benefits almost always outweigh the minimal risk. At DCDC, we use low-dose protocols and iterative reconstruction technology that can reduce radiation exposure by up to 50 percent compared to conventional settings while maintaining full diagnostic image quality. Our radiologists follow the ALARA principle, meaning radiation is kept as low as reasonably achievable for every patient. For context, the radiation from a standard chest CT is roughly equivalent to what you would naturally receive from background environmental radiation over a few months.

Yes, a referral from a physician is required, particularly for insurance coverage. The referral ensures the scan is clinically appropriate and helps our radiologists focus their interpretation on the right clinical question. If you do not have a referral, our on-site general practitioners can assess your symptoms and provide one, often on the same day. This means you may be able to see a GP and have your CT scan completed in a single visit. For insurance patients, the referral also supports the pre-authorization process, which our team handles on your behalf to minimize delays.

Low-dose CT protocols at DCDC use iterative reconstruction algorithms and optimised tube current modulation to reduce radiation exposure by up to 50 percent compared to conventional CT scanning. These protocols are particularly valuable for routine screening, follow-up imaging, and paediatric patients where cumulative radiation exposure is a concern. Despite the reduced dose, diagnostic image quality is maintained for most clinical indications including lung cancer screening, kidney stone detection, and sinus evaluation. For certain examinations requiring maximum image detail, such as complex vascular studies or detailed bone assessment, standard dose protocols may still be recommended by your radiologist to ensure diagnostic accuracy.

Not all CT scans require contrast. Your doctor and our radiologist will determine whether contrast is needed based on the clinical question being asked. Contrast is commonly used for abdominal, pelvic, and vascular studies because it enhances the visibility of blood vessels, organs, and abnormal tissues. The iodine-based contrast is administered through a small intravenous line in your arm during the scan. You may feel a brief warm sensation or a metallic taste, which is completely normal and subsides within seconds. Before administering contrast, we check for allergies and review your kidney function to ensure it is safe. If you have known allergies to iodine or have kidney concerns, inform us when booking so we can take appropriate precautions.

For most CT scans, you can eat and drink normally before your appointment. However, if your scan involves contrast material, particularly for abdominal or pelvic studies, you may be asked to fast for four to six hours beforehand. Fasting reduces the risk of nausea from contrast and also allows the stomach and bowel to be in an optimal state for imaging. You are usually encouraged to continue drinking clear water during the fasting period to stay hydrated, which also helps your kidneys process the contrast material after the scan. We will provide you with specific preparation instructions when you book your appointment, so you will know exactly what to do.

CT scanning is generally avoided during pregnancy because it uses ionizing radiation, which carries a theoretical risk to the developing fetus. However, in certain emergency situations such as suspected pulmonary embolism, appendicitis, or trauma, a CT scan may be medically necessary and the benefit of an accurate diagnosis outweighs the potential risk. In these cases, the scan is performed with modified protocols that minimize radiation exposure to the fetus. If you are pregnant or think you might be, always inform our staff before any imaging procedure. We will explore radiation-free alternatives such as ultrasound or MRI first, and only proceed with CT if it is clinically essential.

CT scan reports are typically ready within 18 to 24 hours after your scan. Each study is reviewed and interpreted by a subspecialty radiologist who focuses on the relevant body area, whether that is neuroimaging, chest, abdominal, or musculoskeletal. For urgent or critical findings, we offer same-day reporting, and our radiologists will contact the referring physician directly if anything requires immediate attention. Your report and images are sent electronically to your referring doctor and are also accessible through our patient portal. If you need a printed copy or a CD of your images for a second opinion or to take abroad, our reception team can prepare these for you.