CT
BMI provides CT imaging services on 3 machines (a 64-slice, 256-slice and the Siemens mCT) located between Geelong Hospital and Geelong Private Hospital. Having access to 3 machines means that waiting times for patients to obtain CT imaging is minimal.
What is a CT scan?
CT is known as Computerised Tomography and is also referred to as CAT (Computerised Axial Tomography). CT is an examination in which axial or transverse sections are obtained through the region of interest, utilising a narrow x-ray beam. Images are reconstructed and by using a computer workstation sagittal, coronal and 3D images may be generated.
The CT scanner is basically a large doughnut shaped x-ray machine. It is used to see internal structures of the body in great detail. The images are displayed as thin slices of the body on a computer screen. (Much like the slices of a sliced loaf of bread).
Multislice CT (MSCT)
Multislice CT denotes the ability of a CT scanner to acquire more than one slice simultaneously. To be capable of doing so, the detector system must be composed of more than a single row of detector elements. The detector system used at Geelong Hospital is a 256-slice detector system capable of producing ultrahigh resolution images , at up to 400 images per second. In an Australian first, this scanner is so powerful it can capture an image of the entire heart in two beats and can aquire full body scans at a rate of 400 images per second!
Benefits to patients include lower radiation doses, outstanding image quality and shorter scanning times, which will facilitate improved paediatric, cardiac and general imaging.
Spiral scanning, also referred to as helical scanning, is performed while the patient is moved at a constant speed through the scan field of the rotating x-ray tube. The path created by the movement of the x-ray beam as a function of couch speed forms a helix or spiral.
Preparing for a CT scan
Specific preparation for patients having a CT scan depends upon the anatomical region to be examined.
Some CT scans will require no preparation at all. Others may require you to fast or have fluids only for 4 hours. This is in case you need a contrast injection, which may make you feel queasy on a full stomach. CT scans of the abdomen generally require that you to drink oral contrast, however, there are some CT procedures of the abdomen that require no preparation at all.
It is recommended that you contact BMI to confirm the specific preparation required for your CT scan.
What is IV contrast?
IV contrast is a clear liquid that is use to further enhance the contrast of the CT images. It is very helpful in clearly visualising vascular structures and is very important in some CT scan examinations. The IV contrast is given via injection into a vein mostly found in the patient's arm. As there is a small chance of allergic reaction to the IV contrast please be sure to mention any known allergies, asthma or kidney problems.
What is oral contrast?
Oral contrast is a drink you have before a CT scan of the abdomen. It is used to differentiate the bowel from other abdominal structures that lie very close to the bowel. The oral contrast is very safe and contains barium.
Children having a CT scan
There is great benefit in taking some time to explain the CT scan to your child before coming to the scan room. The following is a list of helpful information, to discuss with your child:
• the scan usually only takes a few minutes
• the scan is painless
• a parent or carer can stay with the child during the scan (unless pregnant)
• a injection may sometimes be required
• the scanner makes a soft fan like noise, with some clicking as the pictures are taken.
For further information please refer to the FAQ's