Our Services & Specialties

Computed Tomography is a method of examining body organs using x-rays and a computer to construct a series of cross-sectional scans to form 2D and 3D imaging.

A CT scanner is an x-ray tube and an x-ray detector housed in a gantry shaped like a giant ring. The x-ray tube and the detector move around in a circle; when x-rays are emitted they are received by the detector and converted into a two dimensional image. This image can be reconstructed to produce virtual 3D images.

CT scans can be performed on any part of the body. They are very useful because they can demonstrate several kinds of body tissue (lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels) with great clarity. Doctors who interpret the scans (Radiologists) are able to diagnose diseases such as cancer, heart and vascular disease, injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.

At London Bridge Hospital we are able to offer state of the art facilities with our 64-slice MDCT scanner. We offer a full range of services, some of which are detailed below. More detailed information is available in the form of patient fact sheets from the department.

A REFERRAL FROM A DOCTOR IS REQUIRED FOR ANY CT SCANNING PROCEDURE

CT (Virtual) Colonography

CT or Virtual Colonography provides a less invasive, outpatient alternative to a colonoscopy as part of our colon cancer screening package. CT Colonography is designed to study the colon in order to detect polyps and lesions that could be indications of a cancer. Computer generated 2D and 3D “fly-through” images of the entire colon are produced from the CT scan data. Detailed information on the other organs within the abdomen and pelvis is also available for review by a radiologist. Special dietary preparation is required for this procedure.

CT Coronary Calcium Scoring and CT Coronary Angiography

Calcium Scoring is a technique where the extent of calcification in the coronary arteries is measured and scored from x-ray images produced by a multislice CT scanner. There is a direct correlation between the extent of calcium in the coronary arteries and the risk of a future cardiac event.

The CT scan accurately measures the level of calcified plaque in the walls of the coronary arteries. If calcium is detected in your coronary arteries the result will be compared with a database of over 25,000 individuals. The results are plotted against your peers (age and gender). This will enable us to assess your relative risk.

CT Coronary Angiography is an alternative out-patient procedure to conventional angiography for evaluation of the coronary arteries. It is a non-interventional procedure which will not require a stay in hospital. It is particularly suitable for patients who have cardiac type symptoms but who are otherwise at low risk of coronary artery disease.

CT Coronary Angiography can be used to evaluate:

• the coronary arteries
• cardiac function
• the pulmonary veins
• the thoracic aorta
• the pericardium

Patients requiring this procedure undergo a strict screening process by a cardiologist to ensure their suitability for this test.