Computed Tomography (CT)
CT scan is an X-ray imaging technique combined with advanced computer calculations and analysis. It provides high-resolution, three-dimensional images of various body organs. CT scans are used for health checkups and to diagnose tumours and abscesses.
CT Available at ProCare
Useful Information
CT scan precautions
- Patients with a history of allergy to contrast media are highly recommended to have steroid cover (40mg oral prednisolone at 12 hours and 2 hours prior to the examination) prescribed by the referring doctor before the appointment day.
- If you have diabetes, please withhold Metformin/glucophage on the day of examination and 48 hours after the injection of contrast. Please inform the referring doctor of alternative diabetes control medication before the appointed examination.
- Assess renal function and history of kidney disease if necessary.
- If you are or may be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, please notify your referring doctor and the radiographer.
Before a CT scan
- Please provide previous medical films and reports such as CT, MRI or ultrasound for reference.
- Please inform our staff if you have asthma, diabetes mellitus or other allergies.
- Fasting for 4 hours is needed before a contrast CT exam; drinking a small amount of plain water is allowed.
- Please remove all metal items, including jewellery, dentures and hairpins, as they may affect CT scan images.
Special preparation for a whole or lower abdomen (pelvis) scan
- Please drink approximately 600ml of plain water and refrain from going to the bathroom 15 minutes prior to the examination.
- Fasting for 4 hours is needed before contrast CT exam; drinking a small amount of plain water is allowed.
Special preparation for a coronary angiogram scan
- Do not consume alcohol, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, coffee or any caffeinated products 12 hours before the examination.
Strenuous exercise or cigarettes should be avoided before the examination. - Viagra or similar drugs should be avoided for 12 hours before the examination.
- If your heart rate is too high, an oral Beta-Blocker drug may be given to lower it to a desired level before the examination.
- Sublingual Nitroglycerin (TNG) may be given for vasodilation.
During a CT scan
- You will be lying on the examination table. Our staff will help with your positioning.
- The CT table will carry you into the CT gantry for image acquisition.
- Please keep still and follow the breathing instructions during scanning.
- Injection of intravenous contrast media may be needed in certain exams to improve diagnostic quality. Hot sensations and nausea are common after contrast injection. Please understand that these are normal reactions, and they will disappear within a few minutes.