CT Scan - Overview | Guy's And St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust

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Overview

CT scan

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CT scans are relatively quick, painless and generally safe.

The scanner is like a large ring or doughnut. It is not enclosed, like some other scanners.

A CT scan takes a series of pictures of your body. It uses X-rays but gives a more detailed picture than having a plain X-ray.

The pictures show cross sections, or slices, of your body. They are put together by a computer and scan be viewed on the screen.

This helps us to find the cause of your problem and the best treatment options for you.

X-rays generally use a very low level of radiation. How much depends on how much of your body is scanned. The benefits of the scan are thought to outweigh any risks.

CT scans at our hospitals are by appointment only.

You can read more about CT scans on the NHS website.

Giving your permission (consent)

Before your scan, you will fill in a safety questionnaire that will also ask you if you consent to having the scan. At the time of your scan, the radiographer will confirm your answers with you

This is called verbal consent and might only involve the radiographer checking you are booked for the correct scan.

If you do not want to have the scan, or you are unsure, please tell a member of the team, who will find the most appropriate person to talk to you.

It is your decision and you can change your mind at any time. However, not having the scan might delay your diagnosis.

You can read our consent policy for more information.

Our consultants

Our radiology page has information about the consultants in our service.

Research and clinical trials

Research is vital to improving the care that you receive when you're unwell. You can help improve healthcare by taking part in research studies at our Trust. During your appointment, ask your healthcare professional about research. They'll be happy to tell you about research studies you could be eligible to join.

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Last updated: September 2023

Contact us

Phone: 020 7188 5542, choose option 2 then option 1

We're open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Addresses

CT scans take place at Guy’s Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital and the Cancer Centre at Guy's. Please check your appointment letter carefully before attending.

St Thomas' Hospital

1st floor, Lambeth Wing, St Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7EH

Lambeth Wing 1st floor map (PDF 2.17MB)

Accessibility information for CT scan services St Thomas' Hospital.

Guy's Hospital

3rd floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT

Tower Wing ground floor map (PDF 2.37MB)

Cancer Centre

Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT

Cancer Centre at Guy's map (PDF 4.66MB)

Getting to appointments at Guy’s Hospital

We’re having issues with some of the lifts in Tower Wing at Guy’s Hospital.

If your appointment is in Tower Wing, please allow an extra 15 minutes to get there, as you may need to queue for a lift.

Do you have any comments or concerns about your care?

Contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

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