CT scans 101: everything you need to know

A collection of important resources for patients needing a CT scan. Find out more about when a CT scan is needed, the benefits and how it is used for various conditions.

CT scans 101: everything you need to know

A collection of important resources for patients needing a CT scan. Find out more about when a CT scan is needed, the benefits and how it is used for various conditions.

When would I need a CT scan?

Computed tomography (CT) uses sophisticated x-ray technology to take images of parts of the body in very fine slices. The fine detail allows accurate diagnosis of a variety of illnesses and injuries. 

It is used in various medical situations to diagnose conditions or evaluate the extent of injuries. Your doctor might request a CT scan for you in the following circumstances: 

  • Injury assessment or trauma
  • Tumour detection & restaging 
  • Cardiac (heart) assessment
  • Infection or inflammation  
  • blood clots

Benefits of CT imaging

  • CT scans provide highly detailed images of internal structures, allowing doctors to detect even small abnormalities. 
  • The procedure is relatively quick and painless, usually taking only a few minutes. 
  • CT scans can be used to examine various parts of the body, including the brain, chest, abdomen, and extremities. 
  • The images obtained from CT scans help doctors plan and guide treatments. 
  • In emergency situations, CT scans can quickly assess injuries or conditions, aiding in immediate medical decisions. 

Contrast (iodine) dye 

In some cases, a contrast dye may be used during a CT scan. This dye, often containing iodine, helps highlight certain areas of your body, making them more visible on the scan. Some people may be allergic to the contrast dye, so it's essential to inform your doctor about any allergies or previous reactions to contrast agents. 

Comparison image of a patient in a CT machine and MRI machine

CT vs MRI

Learn the key differences between CT and MRI, including why a doctor might choose one over the other, and the benefits and limitations of each. 

Medical team, radiologist and radiographer looking at CT brain images on screen

CT brain scans

CT is particularly effective in identifying structural abnormalities within the brain, such as tumors, hemorrhages, and injuries. 

Patient having a CT scan

CT scans for cancer

CT imaging helps doctors to effectively detect, diagnose and monitor the progression of many types of cancer. 

illustration of human body arterial system

CT angiography for vascular conditions

Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) is used to assess the calibre and flow of blood, helping to detect and diagnose a wide range of vascular conditions. 

Image of lungs with pneumonia under CT scan

CT Chest scan

A chest CT scan can help your doctor diagnose a range of potentially serious medical conditions, including lung disease, pulmonary embolism, cardiovascular conditions, and chest injuries

Booking a CT scan

Visit I-MED Radiology, Australia’s largest medical imaging provider, for your CT scan. Our network includes 150 CT machines across our ~230 clinics nationwide. With the largest team of sub-specialist radiologists, we ensure expert care is always within reach.  

Our patients can book their scan using our online booking platform to save time and choose a time to best suits their schedule. We accept all referrals. 

Book your I-MED scan online

Booking your appointment online

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Computed tomography - CT scan

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