CT Scan (Computed Tomography)

A CT scanner uses a rotating X-ray tube and detectors to build detailed cross-sectional images of the body in a few seconds. An iodine-based contrast dye is often injected into a vein to highlight blood vessels and organs.

CT is fast, widely available and excellent for the lungs, bones, bleeding, kidney stones and cancer staging. It involves more radiation than ordinary X-rays, so each scan should answer a clear clinical question.

What CT Scan (Computed Tomography) shows

CT shows the size, shape and density of organs and can detect tumours, enlarged lymph nodes, infection, abscesses, blood clots in the lungs, aneurysms, fractures and internal bleeding. Low-dose chest CT is the proven screening test for lung cancer in heavy smokers. CT coronary angiography shows plaque and narrowing in the heart arteries, and a calcium score estimates cardiac risk. CT colonography is an alternative to colonoscopy in some situations. Soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, ligaments and pelvic organs are usually seen better on MRI.

When CT Scan (Computed Tomography) is recommended

• Staging and follow-up of most cancers
• Trauma, sudden severe headache and suspected stroke
• Persistent cough or an abnormal chest X-ray, and lung cancer screening in eligible smokers
• Suspected kidney stones, appendicitis, diverticulitis or bowel obstruction
• Planning surgery, dental implants or radiotherapy
• Assessment of the coronary arteries in people with chest pain at low to intermediate risk

Limits and situations where another test is better:

• Whole-body CT of people without symptoms is not recommended: it finds many harmless abnormalities that lead to more tests, for no proven benefit
• Pregnancy, unless the situation is urgent
• Children and young adults should have ultrasound or MRI where these can answer the question
• Poor kidney function or a previous serious contrast reaction may rule out contrast dye

How to prepare

• Fast for about 4 hours if contrast is planned
• Bring a recent creatinine (kidney function) result if you are over 60, diabetic or have kidney disease
• Ask about metformin if your kidney function is reduced
• Remove jewellery and metal from the area being scanned
• Bring previous scans on disc or as a download link for comparison

What happens during the test

You lie on a narrow table that slides through a short, open ring; it is not an enclosed tunnel. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds. If contrast is given through a cannula in your arm, you feel a warm flush and sometimes a metallic taste for under a minute. Scanning itself takes seconds to a few minutes, and the visit about 30 minutes.

Results and next steps

A radiologist reports the images, commonly within 24 to 48 hours and sooner in urgent cases. Ask for the images in DICOM format as well as the written report, so that doctors at home can view them.

• Test time: 10 to 30 minutes
• Results ready: 24 to 48 hours
• Back to everyday activity: None

Safety and risks

• Radiation exposure, which adds a small lifetime cancer risk that grows with repeated scans
• Allergic reaction to contrast, usually mild; severe reactions are rare
• Temporary worsening of kidney function in people with existing kidney disease
• Leakage of contrast under the skin at the cannula site
• Incidental findings that cause anxiety and further tests

Arranging CT Scan (Computed Tomography) in Türkiye

CT is rarely a reason to travel alone, but it is a routine part of cancer staging, second opinions and pre-operative planning, and appointments are usually available within a day or two. Be wary of check-up bundles that include whole-body CT without a medical reason.

Send your previous reports and the question you want answered and a Clinic-Y coordinator replies within 24 hours with suitable teams and written, all-inclusive proposals side by side. Reviewing your case is free.

Frequently Asked Questions