CT Scan

CT scanning is used when we need a more detailed picture than X-ray or ultrasound can provide. It is particularly valuable in emergencies, where rapid and precise information guides urgent decisions. Common situations include:

• Neurology and neurosurgery — to detect stroke, intracranial bleeding, brain tumours, and head injuries following trauma
• Chest imaging — to evaluate lung conditions, including suspected malignancy, pulmonary embolism, pleural effusion, and complex infections such as advanced tuberculosis
• Abdominal and pelvic imaging — to assess the liver, pancreas, kidneys, bowel, and surrounding structures for masses, obstruction, or inflammation
• Oncology — to stage cancers, monitor response to treatment, and detect spread to lymph nodes or distant organs
• Spinal conditions — to examine the vertebrae, spinal canal, and surrounding soft tissue, particularly following injury or in cases of chronic back pain
• Vascular imaging — CT angiography provides detailed views of blood vessels to assess for aneurysms, blockages, or arterial disease
• Emergency trauma — to rapidly identify internal bleeding, organ injury, or fractures that are not visible on plain X-ray

The procedure is straightforward and takes between ten and thirty minutes in most cases. Understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety before the scan:

• You will be asked to lie flat on a motorised table that moves slowly through the CT scanner - a large, ring-shaped machine
• The scanner rotates around you, taking multiple X-ray images from different angles; you will hear a low humming sound during the scan
• You will be asked to remain still and, at certain points, to hold your breath briefly to prevent image blur
• For some scans, a contrast dye is injected through a small cannula in the arm to improve visibility of blood vessels, organs, or soft tissue - the team will inform you in advance if this is required
• The contrast injection may cause a brief warm sensation throughout the body, which is normal and passes quickly
• No sedation is required for most patients; the procedure itself is painless

Images are reviewed by our radiologist, and a detailed report is sent to your doctor, usually on the same day.

Please follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or the radiology team:

• If contrast dye is being used, you will usually be asked to fast for four to six hours beforehand
• Inform the team of any known allergies, particularly to iodine or contrast agents, and of any previous reactions to contrast dye
• Let your doctor know if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or are taking metformin, as these may affect how contrast is managed
• Inform the radiographer if you are pregnant or suspect you may be
• Remove all metal objects, including jewellery, hairpins, and hearing aids, before entering the scan room
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing; you may be asked to change into a hospital gown

CT scanning offers significant diagnostic advantages in both emergency and planned clinical settings:

• Exceptional detail — cross-sectional images reveal anatomy and pathology that cannot be seen on plain X-ray or ultrasound
• Speed — a full chest or abdominal CT can be completed in minutes, which is critical in trauma or emergency care
• Whole-body overview — CT can image multiple regions in a single examination when needed
• Guides treatment decisions — particularly in oncology, neurology, and surgery, CT findings directly shape management plans
• Non-invasive — detailed internal imaging without the need for surgery or invasive procedures
• Precise and reproducible — images can be compared over time to monitor disease progression or response to treatment

At UMC Victoria Hospital, our Department of Radiology provides advanced CT scans in Uganda, supported by experienced radiologists and trained imaging professionals. We combine modern technology with patient-focused care to deliver accurate results in a comfortable and safe environment.

Whether you require a CT scan for emergency assessment, disease diagnosis, or ongoing monitoring, our team is committed to providing reliable imaging services to support your healthcare journey.