CT scans accessible for cancer patients at Tambo Memorial Hospital

With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Tambo Memorial Hospital highlighted some of the procedures cancer patients need to follow if they would like to have Computerised Tomography (CT) scan.

A CT scan combines different X-ray images from cross-sectional images of soft tissue, bone and blood vessels.

The radiology department at the hospital, which has been recently equipped with a new state-of-the-art CT scan machine, ensures the best image quality is achieved with the least possible radiation exposure to the patient.

According to Tambo Memorial Hospital CEO Zenzo Ndabula, an X-ray form must be completed by the patient’s doctor and it needs to be discussed with the radiologist.

Seen in the radiology department, which was equipped last year with a new state-of-the-art computed tomography (CT) scan machine, is Tambo Memorial Hospital CEO Zenzo Ndabula. Photo by: Fanie Mthupha.

“This is to advise the doctor on the correct modality to be used for the patient based on their history. The doctor may recommend a CT scan to help diagnose muscles and bone disorders, such as bone tumours and fractures.
“It pinpoints the location of a tumour, infection or blood clot. It can also be used as a guide in procedures such a biopsy and surgery,” Ndabula said.

Steps to follow when requesting a CT scan (patient preparation)
• Referral letter from the doctor (X-ray form) with proper clinical history and allergies, referring doctor numbers.
• Get Tambo Memorial Hospital file.
• Take bloods tests, which should include urea and creatine.
• Exclude allergies so that patient can be prepared if it’s necessary.
• Get your booking date from CT department.
• Report to CT on the day of the appointment and bring R70.
• No breakfast for CT abdomen scans.

Ndabula stated after the scan has been completed, the radiologist will review and interpret the images and provide a report the patient gives to the referring doctor for further management. The patient will be referred to Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital or Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital for radiation oncology as Tambo Memorial Hospital does not have an oncology department.

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