Private CT scans in Winchester

Private CT scanning at Sarum Road Hospital in Winchester, Hampshire

A CT scan is an advanced imaging test that produces detailed cross-sectional images of the inside of your body. It can help diagnose a wide range of conditions, guide treatment decisions, and monitor how well treatments are working.

At Sarum Road Hospital, we offer fast access to private CT scans in a calm clinical setting. We use the latest equipment, and results will be interpreted by experienced consultant radiologists. You will receive a clear explanation of the process, a timely report and, where appropriate, referral on for further specialist care.

Choosing a private CT scan at Sarum Road Hospital gives you high quality imaging results without delay, helping you and your doctor get the answers you need, fast.

What is a CT scan and how does it work?

During a CT scan, you lie on a motorised table, which moves slowly through a ring-shaped scanner. The scanner rotates around you, sending a controlled beam of X-rays through your body. Detectors measure how much of the X-ray beam passes through different tissues, and a computer processes this information to build up detailed pictures of your internal organs, bones and blood vessels.

• Show bones, soft tissues and blood vessels clearly
• Provide more detail than many standard X-rays
• Are quick, typically taking only a few minutes for the actual scan

How much does a private CT scan cost at Sarum Road Hospital in Winchester?

The cost of a private CT scan at Sarum Road Hospital in Winchester, Hampshire depends on several factors, including:

• The area of the body being scanned (for example, head, chest, abdomen, or multiple areas)
• Whether contrast dye is required
• The complexity of the scan and any special protocols needed
• Whether additional imaging or follow-up tests are recommended

Before you confirm your appointment, the hospital team will:

• Clarify the type of CT scan requested by your doctor
• Provide a clear price for your scan
• Explain what is included, such as the scan itself and the consultant radiologist’s report

You can choose to fund your treatment through self-pay (paying for yourself) or use private health insurance. We work with most major providers, and our friendly advisory team can help guide you through using your cover. 

Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free, or you can choose to pay over a longer period.*

*Loans are subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Circle Health Group Limited is an Appointed Representative of Chrysalis Finance Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Circle Health Group Limited is a credit broker, not a lender. The provider of a payment scheme which is not offered through or by Chrysalis Finance Limited may not be so authorised and regulated. 1st Floor 30 Cannon Street, London, England, EC4M 6XH.

What conditions can a CT scan help diagnose?

CT scans can be used to investigate many different symptoms and conditions. Your doctor may recommend a CT scan to help:

• Assess unexplained pain, for example in the abdomen, chest or head
• Investigate suspected injuries, such as fractures or internal bleeding after trauma
• Examine the lungs, heart or blood vessels
• Evaluate organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas and bowel
• Look for signs of inflammation or infection
• Assess certain types of headache or neurological symptoms, by imaging the brain and surrounding structures
• Investigate suspected tumours or monitor known cancers and how they are responding to treatment
• Plan and guide some procedures, such as biopsies

Common types of CT scan include:

• CT of the head or brain
• CT of the chest
• CT of the abdomen and pelvis
• CT of the spine
• CT angiography (to look at blood vessels)

What happens during a private CT scan at Sarum Road Hospital?

A private CT scan at Sarum Road Hospital in Winchester, Hampshire is designed to be straightforward and as comfortable as possible.

Before your scan

• The type of CT scan you are having
• Whether any preparation is needed, such as fasting for a few hours
• If you will require a contrast agent (a special dye) to help highlight certain structures

• Any allergies, especially to contrast dyes or iodine
• Kidney function, as this can affect whether contrast is suitable for you
• Pregnancy status, as CT uses X-rays and may not be recommended in pregnancy unless clearly necessary

On the day of your scan

When you arrive:

• You will check in at reception and be collected by the radiographer for your appointment
• A member of the team will confirm your details and explain the procedure
• You may be asked to change into a gown and remove jewellery or metal objects, as these can interfere with the images

If your scan involves contrast:

• You may drink a contrast liquid or have contrast injected into a vein
• The staff will explain what to expect, for example a brief warm sensation when contrast is injected

During the scan

• You will lie on the CT table, usually on your back
• The radiographer will position you carefully and may use straps or supports to help you stay still
• The table will move gently through the scanner; the scanner ring may rotate around you, but it does not touch you
• You will hear a quiet whirring or buzzing noise during the scan
• The radiographer will operate the scanner from an room next door and will be able to see, hear and speak to you throughout
• You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at certain points to help obtain clear images

Most CT scans take only a few minutes once you are positioned. The whole visit includes preparation, so it will take longer, but you’ll usually just have one appointment and go home the same day.

After the scan

• You can usually go home shortly after your scan and return to normal activities, unless you have been advised otherwise
• If you had a contrast injection, you may be asked to drink extra fluids over the rest of the day to help flush it from your system
• A consultant radiologist will review and report on your scan images
• The report will be sent to your referring doctor, who will then discuss the results with you and advise on any next steps

If you have any concerns before or after your scan, the team at Sarum Road Hospital will be available to answer your questions.

Are there any risks associated with a private CT scan at Sarum Road Hospital?

CT scans are widely used and generally very safe, but as with any medical test, there are some potential risks and considerations.

CT scans use X-rays, which involve a small dose of ionising radiation. How much radiation is used depends on the type of scan, but it’s kept as low as possible, and the risk is very small.

Some people may have a mild reaction to the contrast dye we use in some CT scans. We’re trained to spot and manage these. People with existing kidney problems may also experience issues from the contrast dye, which is why we always take a full medical history before you come for your scan.

If you are pregnant or think you might be, it is important to tell your doctor and the radiology staff before the scan. Because CT uses X-rays, special care is taken if you are or might be pregnant. In many cases, alternative imaging such as ultrasound or MRI will be considered first.

Overall, CT is a valuable and well-established imaging technique. At Sarum Road Hospital, scans are carried out under the supervision of qualified radiology staff, following safety guidelines designed to keep risks as low as possible.

How to book a CT scan in Winchester

To book a CT scan at Sarum Road Hospital, you usually need a referral from a GP or other healthcare professional. Whether you are a private or NHS patient, your GP can refer you to our hospital to have your CT scan. We will then send the results back to your GP. 

If you are already a patient at Sarum Road Hospital and you need a CT scan, your consultant will refer you to our imaging team to arrange the scan.