CT Scanning

CT stands for Computerised Tomography and is a diagnostic technique in which the combined use of a computer and x-rays passed through the body at different angles produces cross-sectional images of tissues. 

Departments on both sites incorporate modern CT equipment.  At Calderdale we have a GE Optima 660 and at the Huddersfield site we have a Toshiba Aquilon and a GE Optima 660.

Both scanners undertake a heavy workload with examinations being carried out Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm plus some evening sessions are undertaken across both sites.  Each scanner is also available 24 hours per day, seven days per week for emergencies.

The scanners are run by experienced CT radiographers, most of whom have undertaken additional  qualifications in CT (computerised tomography). The team also includes radiographic assistants. Depending on the area being imaged,patients may require an injection of an iodine-based agent as images are acquired, which highlights the blood vessels, rendering images clearer to the interpreting radiologist. The patients can be cannulated by either the CT radiographer or radiographic assistants.

Patients undergoing body scans generally need to drink a volume of contrast agent prior to their  examination.  This may be an aniseed-flavoured radio-opaque substance, or water, that can take up  to an hour to reach the entire digestive system. 

Completed examinations are then reviewed by a consultant radiologist who issues a report to the  referring clinician.  CT head scans, however, are typically reported by a team of four CT  radiographers who have undertaken specialist training in this area. 

Any body area can be scanned using CT although the most common examinations are:

• Head e.g. for trauma or cerebrovascular accident (stroke) 
• Thorax 
• Abdomen and pelvis 
• Orthopaedic examinations 
• Interventional procedures e.g. biopsies or drainages

Huddersfield Royal Infirmary –Your appointment letter will direct you to the appropriate scanner. There is a CT scanner situated within the main x-ray department on the lower ground floor. Lift and stairs are available. Parking is available in the pay and display car parks. 

Southdrive CT department is located on the basement floor. Again lifts and stairs are available. Calderdale Royal Hospital - CT is situated within the main x-ray department on the first floor. Lift and  stairs are available. Parking in the main car parks at front or rear of the hospital. These are pay and display.

CT appointments - 01484 347222

Wards: we aim to scan the same day-3 days Fast Track patients within two weeks non-urgent routine scans within 6 weeks.