Computerised tomography (CT) scan is the name given to a type of medical scan when X-rays and a specially developed camera are used together to create images of the inside of the body. CT scans are useful to see organs and other soft tissues, and help doctors see if your WM has spread to other parts of the body.
What are they looking for?
Although a CT scan cannot be used to diagnose WM, doctors often use the images to see if the WM is in other parts of your body. CT scans are good at showing the internal organs and will be able to show, for example, if your lymph nodes are enlarged. This may prompt your doctor to test these further.
What happens in a CT scan?
Most people will have a CT scan in their local hospital as an outpatient.
You should be given information about your scan before your appointment, including what to wear and any other preparation you’ll need to do.
You will normally be asked to remove any metal items (for example a watch, or an underwired bra) before you go into the scan. You may be given a hospital gown to wear instead of your day clothes. You’ll be asked questions about your general health. You can also talk to the staff if you have any worries about having the scan – it’s very common for people to feel ill at ease or even fearful of having a scan and they will be able to help you with the experience.
How long does it take?
CT scans can take between 30-60 minutes, but you should plan to be in the hospital for longer, especially if you’re having another scan at the same time.
Once you are ready to be scanned, you will have to lie down on a bed that moves slowly into the scanner. The hospital staff will leave the room and monitor you through a glass window. You’ll be able to talk to them through a two-way speaker, and you can ask for help at any time.
The scanner doesn’t cover your whole body. You’ll need to lie as still as possible. The staff may ask you to do things like hold your breath at certain times to ensure the clearest possible picture.
If you are not having any further tests, you’ll be allowed to go home straight after the scan.
