CT scans — abdomen, chest, brain, sinuses & pelvis
Advanced CT Imaging for Detailed Diagnosis
CT Scans
Computed Tomography is an x-ray technique that creates cross-sectional images of your body. It gives your doctor an inside look of your body. Used for various body parts, the CT scan is used to identify cysts, infections, or tumors in the chest as well as the organs.
When you choose Xplore Radiology for CT Scans, you benefit from cutting-edge technology and experienced radiologists. Our team will ensure you receive precise and reliable results to support your treatment and care.
We understand that medical procedures can be daunting, and our warm and friendly staff will make you feel comfortable and at ease throughout the process.
With CT Scan services available at all our locations, including Leeton, Narellan, Camden, Griffith, and Leppington, you can easily access this essential imaging service near you.
Choose Xplore Radiology for CT Scans and experience compassionate care and high-quality imaging for your medical needs.
Types of CT scans we perform
Xplore Radiology offers CT scans across all five clinics in Leeton, Narellan, Camden, Griffith and Leppington. CT imaging uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of structures inside the body, helping doctors investigate symptoms, diagnose injuries and assess a wide range of medical conditions.
The type of CT scan you need will depend on the area being examined and the reason for your referral. Some scans require contrast or preparation, while others can be completed within just a few minutes.
CT abdomen
A CT abdomen scan provides detailed images of the organs and structures within your abdominal area. It may be requested to investigate unexplained abdominal pain, suspected appendicitis or concerns involving organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas or bowel.
Depending on the reason for your examination, your CT abdomen may involve contrast to make certain tissues, organs or blood vessels easier to see. You may also be asked to fast before some examinations, so it’s important to follow the preparation instructions Xplore Radiology provides when you make your appointment.
The scan itself is generally quick. If contrast is required, however, you’ll need to allow additional time before and after the imaging.
For more information about the procedure, read Xplore Radiology’s CT abdomen scan guide.
Do I need to fast before a CT abdomen scan?
It depends on the examination. Some CT abdomen scans require fasting, particularly when contrast is being used. Xplore Radiology will tell you whether you need to fast and provide any other preparation instructions before your appointment.
How long does a CT abdomen scan take?
The actual CT imaging is generally very quick and may take only a few minutes. Your overall appointment will be longer if preparation or contrast is required.
CT chest
A CT chest scan creates detailed images of the lungs and other structures within the chest. It may be requested to investigate symptoms or abnormalities identified on an X-ray, or to provide more information about conditions affecting the lungs and chest cavity.
CT chest imaging can also play an important role in lung cancer assessment. For eligible Australians at higher risk of lung cancer, low-dose CT is used as part of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program to identify possible cancers before symptoms develop.
If you’re eligible for screening rather than having a diagnostic CT for symptoms, learn more about Xplore Radiology’s lung cancer screening service.
What can a CT chest scan detect?
CT chest imaging can help doctors investigate a range of conditions affecting the lungs and surrounding chest structures. What the radiologist assesses will depend on your symptoms, medical history and referral.
Is a CT chest the same as a lung cancer screening CT?
Not necessarily. Lung cancer screening uses a specific low-dose CT protocol for eligible people who don’t have signs or symptoms of lung cancer. A diagnostic CT chest may be requested for many different clinical reasons.
CT sinuses
A CT sinuses scan provides detailed images of the sinus cavities and surrounding structures. Doctors may request it when investigating chronic or recurring sinusitis, persistent congestion or other sinus problems that haven’t resolved with treatment.
CT can show the anatomy of the sinuses in greater detail than a standard X-ray, helping your healthcare provider assess inflammation, obstruction and structural issues that may be contributing to symptoms.
A sinus CT is typically performed without contrast and the scan itself is very fast—often taking only a few minutes. Usually, there is little preparation required, although you should always follow the instructions provided for your individual appointment.
Do CT sinus scans require contrast?
CT sinus examinations are commonly performed without contrast. However, the protocol used depends on the reason for your scan and your doctor’s referral.
Do CT sinus scans require contrast?
CT sinus examinations are commonly performed without contrast. However, the protocol used depends on the reason for your scan and your doctor’s referral.
How long does a CT sinus scan take?
The imaging itself is generally completed within a few minutes. Allow additional time for registration and preparation when attending your appointment.
CT brain and CT head
A CT brain, also commonly called a CT head scan, creates detailed images of the brain, skull and surrounding structures.
Because CT imaging is fast, it’s particularly useful when doctors need information quickly. A CT brain may be requested following head trauma or when investigating suspected bleeding or stroke. It can also be used as part of the investigation of headaches and certain neurological symptoms.
In urgent situations, a non-contrast CT brain can rapidly help doctors assess for bleeding and other abnormalities. Contrast may be required for some examinations depending on the clinical question being investigated.
Your GP, specialist or emergency healthcare team will determine whether CT is the appropriate form of imaging for your circumstances.
Why would a doctor order a CT brain scan?
A doctor may request a CT brain to investigate head trauma, suspected bleeding or stroke, headaches or other neurological symptoms. The reason for the scan determines the imaging protocol used.
Does a CT brain scan require contrast?
Not always. Many CT brain examinations, including some urgent assessments for bleeding or stroke, are initially performed without contrast. Other clinical questions may require contrast-enhanced imaging.
CT pelvis
A CT pelvis scan provides detailed images of structures within the pelvic region. It may be used to investigate pelvic pain, injury or abnormalities involving organs and surrounding tissues.
CT of the pelvis is frequently performed together with abdominal imaging. A CT abdomen and pelvis allows doctors to assess a larger area during the same examination and may be requested for symptoms that could originate from several abdominal or pelvic structures.
Depending on what your doctor needs to investigate, contrast may be required. CT imaging may also be used to assess parts of the urinary tract, including investigations relating to kidney or urinary tract symptoms.
Why would I need a CT pelvis scan?
Your doctor may recommend a CT pelvis to investigate pain, injury or another suspected abnormality within the pelvic region. It may also be ordered together with a CT abdomen for a broader assessment.
Is a CT abdomen and pelvis one scan?
The abdomen and pelvis are often examined together during the same CT appointment when both areas need assessment. Your referral will specify the region or regions your doctor wants investigated.
Preparing for your CT scan
Preparation depends on the type of CT examination you’re having.
Some CT scans require little or no preparation. Others may require you to fast or have contrast administered before or during the examination. If contrast is needed, Xplore Radiology may also ask you questions about your medical history, allergies and kidney function.
Follow the instructions you’re given when booking rather than assuming your previous CT preparation will apply. Two CT appointments can look rather similar on the calendar while requiring quite different preparation.
CT scans at Xplore Radiology
Xplore Radiology provides CT imaging at all five locations:
Leeton | Narellan | Camden | Griffith | Leppington
If your doctor has referred you for a CT abdomen, CT chest, CT brain, CT head, CT sinuses or CT pelvis, contact your nearest Xplore Radiology clinic to arrange your appointment.
Your healthcare team will determine the most appropriate examination based on your symptoms and clinical needs. Xplore’s radiology team can also explain any preparation requirements when you book.
CT Patient Information
Your doctor has requested a CT scan. Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions.
What is a CT scan?
What happens during a CT scan?
The machine is often described as looking like a “donut” with a bed sliding through a circular hole.
You will be asked to lie down on the CT bed. The bed will move during the scan and you may be asked to follow breathing instructions.
If iodinated contrast is required and injected, most people will get a strange metallic taste in the mouth and feel a warm sensation through the body. This warm sensation can feel like you have wet yourself, even though you have not. Do not feel concerned if this happens, it is a common sensation and usually goes away within a few of minutes.
Once the radiographer has checked the images to ensure the appropriate areas have been shown, they will come into the room to help you off the bed.
It is important to try not to move during the scan as it will affect the quality of the pictures.
Are there special instructions to be followed before a CT scan?
Preparation for your procedure will depend on the body region being examined. Preparation for your procedure will depend on the body region being examined.
• Please read any instructions given to you by Xplore Radiology.
These instructions are very important as they may affect the accuracy of the test or require that the test be rebooked if you are not properly prepared for the CT scan.
How long does a CT scan take?
The time taken to complete a CT scan will vary, depending on the examination that has been requested by your referring doctor. CT scans that do not require an injection and are usually quite quick and may be completed within 5 minutes.
If you CT scan requires you to drink contrast for the scan, you will need to arrive up to 1 hour before the examination. You will be advised at the time of booking.
How do I get my results?
Your GP or specialist will be sent a written report.
Please arrange an appointment with your doctor so they can explain the results to you.
Please bring any previous images with you when you attend for your examination.
This examination uses X-rays therefore you will need to inform the radiographer performing the exam if you are pregnant or there is a possibility that you may be pregnant.
What locations offer CT Scan services?
Do you bulk bill CT Scans at Xplore Radiology?
Book your appointment at a location near you.
Leeton
79A Kurrajong Avenue Leeton, NSW, 2705
Phone: (02) 6953 4644
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 6953 7708
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Narellan
Phone: (02) 4648 4415
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 4648 0024
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Griffith
119-121 Yambil Street Griffith, NSW, 2680
Phone: (02) 6962 3335
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 5963 2721
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Leppington
Phone: (02) 8073 7834
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 8072 1509
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Camden
Phone: (02) 4610 4029
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 4610 8441
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Leeton
Phone: (02) 6953 4644
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 6953 7708
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Narellan
Phone: (02) 4648 4415
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 4648 0024
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Griffith
Phone: (02) 6962 3335
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 5963 2721
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Leppington
Phone: (02) 8073 7834
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 8072 1509
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
Camden
Phone: (02) 4610 4029
Email: info@xrad.com.au
Fax: (02) 4610 8411
Office hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm
