Investigations | CT |
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Our CT (Computerised Tomography) scans are performed in the X-ray department on Level 1 in the centre block of the Royal Berkshire Hospital .
 We utilise GE High Definition scanner (750 HD) helical CT scanner; installed in January 2009, this was only the second site in Europe to have GE’s flagship machine. A CT scanner uses x-rays to obtain a volume of imaging data of your body that allows multiplanar and 3D evaluation. This scanner uses the latest Gemstone Spectral Imaging combined with state of the art software to produce high resolution imaging using a low x-ray dose. The scanner can perform newer specialised techniques including: Cardiac CT to image the heart, coronary vessels and aorta, often preventing the need for an invasive coronary angiography. CT colonography allowing 3D visualisation of the large bowel to detect polyps and cancers, in preference to barium enema and colonoscopy. CT angiography to evaluate the blood vessels of the arm and legs without the need for invasive techniques. Orthopaedic CT to assess joints, including replacements,with incredible detail, imaging down to 0.625mm slice thickness. Depending upon the body area to be examined, you may be asked to come to the x-ray department up to one hour before the investigation, generally if the abdomen is to be scanned; you may be asked to drink a special liquid that coats your bowel and enables us to see your bowel more clearly. For many CT scans, aneedle will be placed in a vein in your arm, so that an injection can be given to help show up the blood vessels in your body. The CT scanner is very quick and quiet and you are unlikely to be in the scan room for more than ten minutes. You will be asked to lie on a table that will move through a large but short ring, which takes the pictures; you will not be enclosed in a tunnel. If an injection is given, you may get a hot feeling, a funny taste in the mouth and even, on occasion, a feeling like you are passing water. Do not worry, this is all normal and these sensations pass very quickly. Whilst the Radiographer who performs the scan can reassure you that the appropriate images have been obtained, they will not be able to give you a report straight after the scan. A Berkshire Imaging Consultant Radiologist will interpret the images the same day and send a report to your own Consultant or GP.
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