Overview

Radiotherapy planning CT scan

Before your radiotherapy starts, you’ll have a CT scan to help plan your radiotherapy treatment.

A CT scan uses X-rays to give a detailed image of the inside of your body. It is much more detailed than an X-ray, and generates 3D images.

Before the CT scan

If you're between the ages of 12 and 55, we'll ask if you’re pregnant. If there is a chance you could be pregnant, you will need to tell your radiographer. This is because we may not be able to do the CT scan if you are pregnant.

We will give you a dressing gown for your CT planning scan. We will also give you one for your treatment appointments, or you may prefer to bring your own.

We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment. If you decide to have the procedure or treatment, we will ask you to sign a consent form. This says that you understand what is involved and agree to have the treatment.

Read more about our consent process.

During the CT scan

For the scan, you will be asked to lie on a flat bed. The scan is done by radiographers. They will move you into the position that you will need to be in for all your radiotherapy treatments.

The bed will move slowly through the CT scanner. A CT scanner is shaped like a large ring, and you will go through the hole in the middle.

You will not feel anything and nothing will touch you. Your radiographer might give you instructions for breathing during the scan, to help us get the best images possible.

You can tell the radiographers if you feel uncomfortable at any time, or if you have any concerns.

After the CT scan

After the scan the radiographers will take some measurements and make some small permanent marks on your skin. This is to help position you correctly for your radiotherapy treatments.

Travel fares and transport

You might be able to claim back your fares to the hospital. You can ask at the radiotherapy reception if you’re eligible for this.

If you need help with hospital transport, contact the hospital transport team, phone: 020 7188 2888. The radiographers are not able to arrange this for you.

Resource number: 3067/VER6
Date published: November 2024
Review date: November 2027

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