Low-dose CT scanning

Harbour Radiology has invested in a low-dose Siemens CT scanner to reduce the dose of radiation for our patients without compromising the diagnostic effectiveness of imaging.

We are committed to ensuring you receive the highest quality of care with the lowest dose possible. Patient-centred care is our prime aim and our team of radiographers are trained to minimise radiation and to optimise image quality with approximately 60%* radiation dose reduction compared to national average without sacrificing image quality.

* Dose calculation is subject to vary due to patient size and weight

What is Computed Tomography?

Computer Tomography (CT) is an imaging modality that uses advanced types of X-rays to create three-dimensional images. CT may be used to visualise internal organs, head, neck, spine as well as extremities.

The examination usually takes 15-25 minutes depending on the nature of the test being performed.

Preparation

At Harbour Radiology, our staff will advise you of any specific preparations when you make your appointment.
Abdomen and/or Pelvis: Fast 3 hours prior to your appointment.

CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA): You will be asked to arrive 60 minutes prior to your appointment to complete paperwork and you may need to take medication to slow your heart rate, as CTCA images are clearer when the heart rate is low.

Avoid caffeine on the day of the scan, including herbal tea, coffee, chocolate and soft drinks as these can increase your heart rate and impact on the quality of the scan.
It is also advised to avoid exercise for 24 hours prior to your scan.

Extremities such as ankle, knees and hips, sinus and spine CTs do not require any preparation.

For some CT scans, the radiologist injects intravenous iodinated contrast medium or dye to highlight certain blood vessels and organs. In these circumstances, you will be required to fast (nothing to eat) for 2 to 4 hours prior to your appointment. Drinking water is permitted to keep hydrated.

If an injection of contrast dye is required, our radiographers will discuss this with you before the procedure, and you will be asked to sign a consent form. During the injection, you may experience a warm sensation and notice a metallic taste in your mouth, which are normal reactions to the contrast agent and dissipate within a few minutes. Adverse reactions to the contrast agent are very rare, and our team at Harbour Radiology are fully trained in the unlikely event that one does occur.

Please inform us if you are taking any diabetic medication, have kidney disease or have had reactions to X-ray contrast dye in the past. Please bring a list of all your current medications to your appointment.

If you are pregnant or breast feeding it is imperative to advise our staff when booking your appointment.

Post Scan

Side effects from having a CT scan are very rare. If you need to have an injection of contrast dye it is quite common to experience a warm flush and/or a metallic taste in your mouth. Occasionally some patients may experience transient nausea or an itchy rash. These side effects, if they occur, do not last very long. Other more severe allergic reactions are extremely rare.

Is it Safe?

During your procedure you will be exposed to a small amount of radiation. At Harbour Radiology, we use modern Siemens CT technology, and our radiographers are highly trained to ensure that radiation doses are kept to as low as reasonably possible while retaining the quality of images.

Please bring your request form from your referring practitioner to your appointment.
Please remember to bring all previous X-rays and imaging reports with you to your appointment.

Locations where this service is available

• North Sydney
• Mosman
• Lane Cove
• Pymble
• Macquarie Park
• Hoxton Park
• Miller
• Carnes Hill
• Austral
• Leppington
• Kellyville