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CT scan (computerised tomography)

Disclaimer: This fact sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

What is a CT scan?

CT stands for "computerised tomography". CT scans are sometimes called CAT scans. The CT scanner is a large doughnut shaped x-ray machine. It is used to see internal structures of the body in great detail. The images are displayed as thin slices of the body on a computer screen (much like the slices of a sliced loaf of bread.) Your child will be exposed to very small amounts of radiation during the CT scan.

Preparing your child for a CT scan

There is great benefit in taking some time to explain the CT scan to your child before coming to the scan room. Following is a list of helpful information, to discuss with your child:

• the scan usually only takes a few minutes
• the scan is painless
• parent / carer can stay with the child during the scan (unless pregnant)
• a injection may sometimes be required
• the scanner makes a soft fan like noise, with some clicking as the pictures are taken.

Medical Preparation

Some CT scans will require no preparation. Others may require you to fast for 2 hours. This is in case you need a contrast injection, which may make you feel queasy on a full stomach. CT scans of the abdomen will require you to drink an oral contrast.

If your Doctor has decided your child will need sedating or general anaesthesia in order to lie still enough for the scan, you will be given special instructions.

What is IV contrast?

IV contrast is a clear liquid that is use to further enhance the contrast of the CT images. It is very helpful in clearly visualising vascular structures and is very important in some CT scan examinations. The IV contrast is given via injection into a vein mostly found in the patient's arm.

There is a small chance of allergic reaction to the IV contrast. For this reason the parent/guardian will be asked to sign a consent form. Please ask any question concerning the contrast before you sign. Also be sure to mention any known allergies.

What is oral contrast?

Oral contrast is a drink you have before a CT scan of the Abdomen. It is used to differentiate the bowel from other abdominal structures that lie very close to the bowel. The oral contrast is very safe and does not require a formal consent.

Important safety considerations

Please inform the scan rooms staff if your child has any allergies, asthma, or kidney problems.

As a parent/guardian who may be pregnant, you will not be able to stay with your child. It is advisable to bring someone else who is not pregnant to stay with your child.

• Your child will feel more comfortable if a parent or carer can stay with them during the examination.
• Women who are pregnant should not stay in the room while the x-rays are being taken.

The Children's Hospital at Westmead Tel: (02) 9845 3585 Fax: (02) 9845 3562 www.chw.edu.au	Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick Tel: (02) 9382 1688 Fax: (02) 9382 1451 www.sch.edu.au	Kaleidoscope, Hunter Children's Health Network Tel: (02) 4921 3670 Fax: (02) 4921 3599 www.kaleidoscope.org.au