Scanner

A CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to produce detailed 3D images of the human body.

Principle
Important information
List of scans performed at our centre

Principle

A scanner is a device that produces high-quality detailed internal images of the human body. It can be used for abnormalities that cannot be detected by radiology or ultrasound, or for a better visualisation of any abnormalities detected by these two techniques.

The scanner is a large machine with a hole in the centre. The patient lies on a table that slides in and out of the tunnel, which is open on both sides. The scanner uses X-rays that are emitted by a rotating arc, with the table sliding through this arc.

The images are rendered in 3D using the scanner’s powerful computer.

Important information.

A new device with less radiation!

Since January 2021, our centre has a new scanner offering the following benefits:

• improved quality
• significant reduction in the dose of radiation to which the patient is exposed
• software for metallic artefact reduction (prostheses or surgical equipment)
• a scope to check the position of the needle during (epidural and intraforaminal) infiltrations
• the tunnel of the new scanner is wider and more spacious: this feels less oppressive for claustrophobic patients and facilitates infiltrations and interventional radiology procedures.

Preparation

No preparation required except for virtual colonoscopy, in which case you will be given specific instructions when you book your appointment.

Remove any metal objects from the site of your body that is being X-rayed (dentures, glasses, piercings, jewellery, bra, hair clips, etc.).

Contraindication

CT scans are contraindicated in pregnancy. You must always inform us if you are or may be pregnant.

This exam is not reimbursed by your mutual health insurance fund

Unfortunately, the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (INAMI/RIZIV) may not reimburse you for scans that are done in a private, out-of-hospital setting under Belgian law. This is completely beyond our control.

As a result, the exam you undergo at our centre will not be reimbursed by your mutual health insurance fund. Some private insurers may, however, provide coverage at some stage. Our secretary will repeat this information to you when you make your appointment.

No intravenous injections!

For safety reasons, we only perform scans that do not require the intravenous injection of contrast media. This injection can cause an allergic reaction, which needs to be treated in hospital.

As a matter of principle, the following exams always require an intravenous injection of contrast media, which is why our centre does not offer them:

• Testing for abdominal, thoracic or cerebral tumour development (albeit with a preference for MRI)
• Vascular tests: thoracic or abdominal aorta, angioscopy, cardioscopy, brain, etc.
• Examination of the cervical region: larynx, pharynx, neck…
• Examination of the pancreas

List of scans performed at our centre

• Cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.
• Arthrogram of all joints, with intra-articular injection of contrast agent.
• All bone and joint structures.
• Abdomen without contrast: diverticulitis, appendicitis or urinary calculi.
• Thorax without contrast: interstitial lung disease, bronchiectasis, pneumopathy.
• Brain without contrast: not usually indicated, except perhaps for haemorrhage. The best option in almost all cases is an MRI.
• Virtual colonoscopy: screening for colon cancer and polyps.
• Temporal bones.
• Sinuses.