Unlike other forms of medical imaging, the CT scan can make an image of every type of body structure at once, including bone, blood vessels and soft tissue. Before having the scan, you may be given a special dye called a contrast to help improve the quality of the images. I hope this is not too far off track. I will be very greatful for advice. What you can expect. DIGITAL SPY, PART OF THE HEARST UK ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK. Either that or get a second opinion perhaps. On an X-ray, you can only make out bone, not soft tissue. • If you weigh more than 177kg or 28 stone please let us know. What has been your experiences. You may be advised to avoid eating anything for several hours before your appointment to help make sure clear images are taken. They include helping to diagnose a condition, guiding medical procedures, such as needle biopsies, and monitoring the effectiveness of certain treatments, such as cancer treatments. To request a scan, please fill out the form under the tab ‘Request a Scan’. My question is this. Well, we’re through the looking glass now. If you have an injury that makes it hard for you to lay still or if you are getting treated for cancer, your doctor may recommend a CT scan rather than an MRI. Types of CT Scans Diagnostic CT Scan. So basically you disagree with your GPs diagnosis or doubt his competence. How does a CT scan work? CT scans are usually taken across your body (called the axial plane). Menu This would suggest that brain scans are a good idea. A CT (computed tomography) Scanner uses computer processing and X-ray to produce detailed cross-sectional images of your body, including three dimensional pictures. Even private doctors must abide by ethics and they cannot order just any test unless they can give a good medical reason for that test or if the test constitutes part of an approved research project. CT scans can detect bone and joint problems, like complex bone fractures and tumors. Ofen if you pay directly, fabilities will give you a discount. On the other hand, some doctors say that you should only do brain scans with good cause, not … or my Primary Care Physician, in digital form. The most significant risk of CT scans is radiation exposure. For more information, read GOV.UK: patient dose information. CT scans use X-ray technology and advanced computer analysis to create detailed pictures of your body. They can give you advice to help you feel calm and can arrange for you to have a sedative (medication to help you relax) if necessary. You can have a CT scan done in a hospital or an outpatient facility. In incredible pain, worried & scared.. Read more about who can and can't have an MRI scan. How so? During the procedure. An injury or illness related to your head can be frightening. I had terrible Back Pain but couldn't get anywhere other than saw consultant who wouldn't sanction MRI Scan. If you are still not being referred for a CT scan you do need to consider whether your feeling that there is more going on is connected with what you're experiencing with your mental health. I have done and all they say is your'e depressed,, and write and prescriptions... .. Can't you pay for one privately now? It uses a combination of X-rays and a computer to create pictures of your organs, bones, and other tissues. HeatherS in reply to Cordingley. • If you are eligible for hospital transport please tell us as soon as possible. When everybody gets exposed to the amounts of radiation in a CT scan, bad side effects start getting reported. Close menu. A computer will need to process the information from your scan, which will then be analysed by a radiologist (a specialist in interpreting images of the body). Health Information Management services do not have access to the actual medical image taken during your x-ray, MRI or CT scan. CT scans aren't usually recommended for pregnant women unless it's an emergency, as there's a small chance the X-rays could harm your baby. A CT scan can be used to diagnose and monitor a number of different health conditions. It’s a good thing that the law requires an expert to request an X-ray. The whole process typically takes about 30 minutes. The amount of radiation you're exposed to during a CT scan varies, depending on how much of your body is scanned. After analysing the images, the radiologist will write a report and send it to the doctor who referred you for the scan so they can discuss the results with you. To have an 'MOT' sort of thing. A CT scan can give detailed information about many parts of the body, including the lungs, bones, soft tissues, heart and blood vessels. While the scan is taking place, you'll be able to hear and speak to them through an intercom. Can I turn up at my local hospital and request a CT scan?? You should also let the hospital know if you're pregnant. Sometimes you can get a CT scan if you can't get an MRI. Although they're thought to be generally safe to use in later pregnancy (after 3 months), it's not known whether the strong magnetic fields have any long-term effects on the developing baby. You lie on a special table which moves through the middle of the machine. It's a good idea to wear loose, comfortable clothes as you may be able to wear these during the scan. I know you can submit a medical-release form for medical documentation, but can one request copies of CT-Scans, MRI, X-rays & ultrasound/endoscopic imagery from Dr.'s/Surgeons for personal records? These items include jewelry, glasses, and dentures. The cost of a CBCT scan is £150. Reply (0) Report. This ensures that the scan images aren't blurred. Brain scanning technology such as MRIs and CT scans can be useful for diagnosing serious conditions. "Wanting a go"... Great choice of words when there's something seriously wrong with my brain and the GP just sends you with pills, Listen, I had this- went to the Dr's over a period of many, many years- 9 GP's I saw over 10 years- EVERY single ba***rd one of them told me I was depressed, had anxiety- I had a cupboard full of medicine which they had prescribed me- one even sent a psychiatrist to my home to basically see if I needed sectioning! An MRI scan typically takes longer to complete than a CT scan. Your appointment letter will mention anything you need to do to prepare for your scan. There are many reasons a health care provider may choose to order a CT examination instead of an MRI. I will be very greatful for advice. I am finishing my 5th treatment next week of carbo/taxol and then will have a week break & go for 3 weeks in a row for my 6th & hopeful final treatment. If you’re having trouble getting prior authorization or have had a prior authorization request denied, ask to see exactly what information was submitted with the request. They will usually give you the pictures on CD. Ask your GP for a referral and get one done that way if you really feel there is something wrong. By the way, I cannot remember ever doing a CT scan because someone could feel lumps under their ribs. CT scans are sometimes referred to as CAT scans or computed tomography scans. A CT scan is a fast test, and the open equipment is easier for individuals with claustrophobia. Holy cow!! The scanner consists of a ring that rotates around a small section of your body as you pass through it. It’s a good thing that the law requires an expert to request an X-ray. When used appropriately, the benefits of a CT scan far exceed the risks. Took a look at my recent bills and I think my PET scan was just under $6,000. I was on Morphine both Liquid and Tablets. I would love to know your experiences as far as when you had a CT scan after chemo. In general, the diagnostic benefit of a CT scan usually outweighs the risk of x-ray radiation exposure or injections of imaging contrast and use of sedatives during the scan. A cranial CT scan is known by a variety of names as well, including brain scan, head scan, skull scan, and sinus scan. I'd imagine if you went to a private hospital they'll do whatever tests you want as you'll be paying for them out of your own pocket and then ofcourse theres the paying for someone who really knows how to read the test results to look them over and give an accurate diagnosis. HIM has access to the physician/clinician's interpretation reports. A CT scan uses X-rays and computers to make images of the body. It can be used to diagnose and monitor many conditions. You absolutely have the right and duty to yourself to discuss the cost/benefit of the procedure and maintain the right of refusal. I know I will have a CT scan after the last treatment but how long after the last treatment will they wait before they do the scan. Ofen if you pay directly, fabilities will give you a discount. The benefits and risks of having a CT scan will always be weighed up before it's recommended. A CT head scan is a safe way for your doctor to see inside your head and neck. If you are seeing your doctor for a head-relate… After the scan I was able to briefly see the results on the computer but I was unable to ask my radiologist to request my result. A computerised tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body. Source(s): Registered CT technologist with 15 years experience. It was only when my husband took me to the Gp and insisted there was something very wrong and I should have a scan.- my lazy, useless GP replied ' Very well, but you'll be wasting everyone's time'. CT is often the preferred method of diagnosing many cancers such as liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers because it can determine a tumor’s location, size, and affected tissue area. They're carried out in hospital by specially trained operators called radiographers, and can be done while you're staying in hospital or during a short visit. The radiographer will operate the scanner from the next room. This is why a CT scan is sometimes referred to as a CAT scan (computed axial tomography scan). MRI scans can show soft tissues and structures that bone may hide in a CT scan. To ensure the safety of patients and staff all our centres undertake COVID-19 safety precautions as guided by HSE / NHS. CT scanners are designed to make sure you're not exposed to unnecessarily high levels. Heck, you can even get your own screening CT scan with no doctor’s order necessary. A cranial CT scan is known by a variety of names as well, including brain scan, head scan, skull scan, and sinus scan. This can be a factor if the patient is in critical condition and clinical information from the scan is needed very quickly. You absolutely have the right and duty to yourself to discuss the cost/benefit of the procedure and maintain the right of refusal. They're also not usually recommended during pregnancy. Your scan results won't usually be available immediately. CT scans are sometimes referred to as CAT scans or computed tomography scans. It also means that there will be more breathing and other types of motion in the patient throughout the scan which may cause motion artifacts in the images. You can request a brain scan, but usually a doctor won't recommend it unless you are showing "red flag" symptoms, like signs of a stroke or a head injury. On the one hand, brain scans often find problems such as aneurysms which can be fatal if not detected early by scanning technology. They removed the ovary that had the … Hello Heathers, please can you tell me after having a ct scan, can you tell me if I have the right to ask for a copy and if so how ? CT scans can have as much radiation as 500 X-rays, and a CT SCAN CAN CAUSE CANCER, although this is rare. But there's a small risk you could have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used and you'll be exposed to X-ray radiation. CT scans can produce detailed images of many structures inside the body, including the internal organs, blood vessels and bones. Generally, the amount of radiation you're exposed to during each scan is the equivalent to between a few months and a few years of exposure to natural radiation from the environment. During the scan, you'll usually lie on your back on a flat bed that passes into the CT scanner. Took a look at my recent bills and I think my PET scan was just under $6,000. Any procedure that exposes the body to ionizing radiation carries a slight risk. An emergency room doctor may need to do a head scan in order to diagnose, treat, and evaluate the damage a person may have suffered. What Are the Risks? The computed tomography (CT) scan is a medical imaging procedure that uses x-rays and digital computer technology to create detailed two- or three-dimensional images of the body. CT scans are sometimes referred to as CAT scans or computed tomography scans. Ask either through your GP or direct to the radiographer in charge of the MRI unit, or your consultant radiologist. You should contact the hospital after receiving your appointment letter if you have any allergies or kidney problems, or if you're taking medication for diabetes, as special arrangements may need to be made. You'll also be asked to remove anything metal, such as jewellery, as metal interferes with the scanning equipment. You don’t have to demand anything just ask. CT scans are painless and, with newer machines, take only a few minutes. May 13, 2009 6:51 PM Subscribe I would like to request my hospital send me either via email or dvd any CT Scans and x-rays from the hospital and/or Diagnostics dept. Newer CT scanners can also create 3D images. I asked my Dr can I have a copy of the report and he said it's been sent for referral!!!!! Both an MRI scan and CT scan of the abdomen with and without contrast provide very good diagnostic information to clinicians. You may be asked to wait for a short time in the radiology department to ensure that you feel well after the exam. Page last reviewed: 8 June 2018 Still waiting on insurance. In those types of health emergencies, timing is critical. So my medical-imagery is scattered all over the globe. The doctor may even request one based on your symptoms, and insurance may cover it. Try to avoid wearing jewellery and clothes containing metal (such as zips), as these will need to be removed. These images are interpreted by a Radiologist. Before the scan starts, you may be asked to remove your clothing and put on a gown. CT scans have various purposes. Reply (0) Report. However he told me he will send the results to my doctor. The CT scanner uses X-rays, but the amount of radiation you get from them is kept to a minimum. A computerized tomography (CT) scan can be used to diagnose a wide variety of injuries and diseases. CT scans wouldn't normally be used to check for problems if you don't have any symptoms (known as screening). You still can't choose your own treatments. It's thought exposure to radiation during CT scans could slightly increase your chances of developing cancer many years later, although this risk is thought to be very small (less than 1 in 2,000). These horror stories mostly occurred in the setting of improper use and repeated CT scans. Tell the radiographer if you feel anxious or claustrophobic about having the scan. Except my pain is dead center in my chest between nipples. In general, the diagnostic benefit of a CT scan usually outweighs the risk of x-ray radiation exposure or injections of imaging contrast and use of sedatives during the scan. Given your moms recent Dx.I really wouldn't mess around here.any doc given your circumstances,I would think,would want to find the real actual cause of your continued pain.if you sit down and discuss this whole thing with him and tell him about your mom and your fears,I should think that your doc would want to follow up on this,really.if he dosen't,maybe it is time to find a doc that will … As an Archaeologist, I have lived all over the USA, Canada, UK, and Israel. To access personal medical images, please contact the healthcare location's medical imaging department. Get it checked out! Very often you can arrange a payment plan with the facility. It can sometimes help doctors diagnose headaches and their causes.. You might need one if … Talk to your doctor or radiographer about the potential risks beforehand if you have any concerns. A diagnostic CT pinpoints areas of concern to help detect diseases before symptoms occur so they may be properly treated. This procedure is noninvasive, meaning it doesn’t require surgery. These scans are a phenomenal invention as they allow us to see structures like nothing we had before. The radiology department has received a request for you to have a CT scan. You’ll wait another few days before you can get your mental health services, your prescription drug, or your MRI scan. It also means that there will be more breathing and other types of motion in the patient throughout the scan which may cause motion artifacts in the images. This gives radiologists a greater level of detail that they can use in their reports. CT scanners are shaped like a large doughnut standing on its side. These scans are incredibly useful in a multitude of ways throughout the medical profession. If you have been experiencing shortness of breath, pain, or discomfort that may be related to your lungs, your doctor may order a chest CT scan. .. is it that simple. Here is what the CD says: CT abdomen and pelvis without contrast Clinical history splenic mass Findings: The liver is enlarged.It measures 27 cm in length the spleen is enlarged and measures 19.2 cm in length. You can eat and drink, go to work and drive as normal. This normally takes a few days or weeks. Well, we’re through the looking glass now. CT scans are quick, painless and generally safe. You can always ask for a copy of your CT scan images for your own records. Request a CBCT Scan. But MRI scans may not be recommended in certain situations. ... it's likely that the doctor will request internal images to accurately assess your health. ©2020 Hearst UK is the trading name of the National Magazine Company Ltd, 30 Panton Street, Leicester Square, London, SW1Y 4AJ. CT is often the preferred method of diagnosing many cancers such as liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers because it can determine a tumor’s location, size, and affected tissue area. Registered in England. The expert in this question is a physician trained in making the decision. If you’d like to join in, please sign in or register. In the event of an emergency, such as an accident, a serious injury, or stroke, doctors can do a CT head scan in the emergency room. You can request a PET scan. I’ve requested copies of … CT scans are much less sensitive to movement and take less time to perform than MRIs, so if you have an injury that doctor’s need to look at that prevents you from laying still or comfortably for 30-60 minutes, it might be better to get a CT scan. Physicians use the information they get from a CT scan to rule out or confirm the presence of certain abnormalities, conditions or diseases. During the test, you will lie on a table that is attached to the CT … You can choose which of our immaculate hospitals to visit at a time convenient to you – and with no waiting. This leaflet tells you what to expect. After a CT scan you may be given special instructions such as being told to drink lots of fluids to help your kidneys remove the contrast material from your body. The fast and painless diagnostic tool allows doctors to see inside the body. Surely it will be on my notes, is it my right to ask for a copy, as I'm worried about the findings and urgency for bronchoscopy. A MRI scan of the head and of the brain can clarify the cause of the complaints, because research using MRI images provides more information than for example, X-ray. Welcome to the Digital Spy forums. But X Rays are only used these days when there is good reason, they aren't used (or shouldn't be used) just for the sake of it. Technicians first obtain images of the body without a contrast agent, then they introduce the dye and take a second scan. CT scans can cost between $300 to $5000, depending on where you go and what your insurance covers. While each scan is taken, you'll need to lie very still and breathe normally. They eventually tracked Scan down to being delivered to Consultants Private Practice Office. CT scans are much less sensitive to movement and take less time to perform than MRIs, so if you have an injury that doctor’s need to look at that prevents you from laying still or comfortably for 30-60 minutes, it might be better to get a CT scan. There was stuff in the news about it a few years ago. A CT scanner is a large, ring-shaped machine with a hole in its centre. i ve the same issue right now. All of this was around 20yrs ago. Doctors seem to be divided on the issue. For example, if you have a metal implant fitted, such as a pacemaker or artificial joint, you may not be able to have an MRI scan. Whereas with an MRI scan for sciatica, you can see bone, muscle, soft tissue, nerve and spinal cord, all through a series of images which are like little cross sections through your body. When everybody gets exposed to the amounts of radiation in a CT scan, bad side effects start getting reported. The contrast is normally completely harmless and will pass out of your body in your urine. Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT or CAT) of your abdomen. The doctor may even request one based on your symptoms, and insurance may cover it. What Are the Risks? A computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan allows doctors to see inside your body. A diagnostic CT pinpoints areas of concern to help detect diseases before symptoms occur so they may be properly treated. 6 years ago. Types of CT Scans Diagnostic CT Scan. Next review due: 8 June 2021. Don't just accept your GP's diagnosis. We have won many awards for the quality of our healthcare and have received high satisfaction ratings from our patients. A person requires a smaller amount of IV contrast for an MRI scan than for a CT scan. The scan will usually take around 10 to 20 minutes. There are radiation risks plus potential complications if, for example, contrast is required and radiologists will only perform such tests if there are valid medical reasons. MRI scans aren't usually recommended for pregnant women. This may be swallowed in the form of a drink, passed into your bottom (enema), or injected into a blood vessel. You shouldn't experience any after-effects from a CT scan and can usually go home soon afterwards. All images must be reported as specified on the referral form in line with current guidelines. How best to request digital copies of xrays and catscans from my hospital? Yours greatfully David. Hello Heathers, please can you tell me after having a ct scan, can you tell me if I have the right to ask for a copy and if so how ? However, the clear images provided by CT head scans can help your doctor better diagnose and treat head- and brain-related conditions.