Computed Tomography — rapid, high-resolution cross-sectional imaging for chest, abdomen, vascular and oncological assessment.
CT (Computed Tomography) uses a rotating X-ray beam to acquire hundreds of thin cross-sectional images of the body within seconds. These are reconstructed by a computer into detailed three-dimensional pictures of your organs, blood vessels and bones.
CT is exceptionally fast — a scan of the chest, abdomen and pelvis takes less than 30 seconds in the scanner itself, though preparation and positioning take longer. It is the modality of choice for many acute and oncological investigations, and is routinely used for vascular assessment, staging cancer and screening for pulmonary embolism.
CT colonography (also called virtual colonoscopy) is a specialist technique that uses CT imaging to examine the colon and rectum without the need for endoscopy in many cases. Dr Paul McCoubrie is an accredited expert in this technique.
| Duration | 10 – 30 minutes total |
| Radiation | Yes (X-ray based) |
| Contrast dye | Commonly used |
| Report | 24–48 hours |
| Locations | Spire & Nuffield Bristol |
Assessment of lung nodules, suspected lung cancer, pleural disease, pulmonary embolism and mediastinal masses. Including low-dose lung cancer screening CT.
Liver, kidney, pancreatic and bowel pathology. Staging of intra-abdominal cancers. Assessment of unexplained pain or weight loss.
A specialist technique for examining the large bowel without conventional endoscopy. An excellent option for patients unable to tolerate colonoscopy.
More on GI imagingDetailed vascular imaging of the aorta, arteries and veins. Used to assess aneurysms, stenoses, vascular malformations and peripheral arterial disease.
Vascular imagingCT of the chest, abdomen and pelvis is the standard staging investigation for most solid tumours. We produce structured, TNM-formatted reports where appropriate.
CT urogram (CTU) for kidney stones, urothelial cancer and haematuria investigation. CT renal mass characterisation.
Renal imagingPreparation varies by scan type. Abdominal CT often requires fasting for 4 hours and drinking oral contrast fluid beforehand. CT colonography requires a 48-hour low-residue diet and bowel preparation. We will provide detailed written instructions at the time of booking.
Many CT scans use an intravenous iodine-based contrast agent to improve visualisation of blood vessels and organ tissues. A small cannula is placed in your arm. We will check for any previous reactions to contrast or kidney function concerns before proceeding.
You will lie on a flat table that passes through a large, open ring-shaped scanner. The scanning itself takes seconds to a few minutes. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly. The scanner is open at both ends and is not at all like an MRI tunnel.
You can usually drive and resume normal activities immediately. If contrast was used, drink plenty of fluids to help it clear through your kidneys. Your formal report will be produced by a Consultant Radiologist, typically within 24–48 hours.
Please note — areas we do not cover: We do not provide CT of the head (neurological imaging) or musculoskeletal CT. Your GP or specialist can refer you to the appropriate NHS or private service for these investigations.