Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is one of the most advanced tools in imaging diagnostics, primarily used in dentistry, otolaryngology, and orthopedics. It provides specialists with precise information necessary for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. However, to fully leverage the benefits of this examination, patients should pay attention to several factors. How should you prepare for a CBCT scan, and what should you do before the procedure?

Do You Need a Referral for a CT Scan?

One of the most common questions patients ask is whether a referral is needed for a CT scan. It’s important to emphasize that according to Polish law, both under the National Health Fund (NFZ) and privately, it is impossible to perform a CT scan without a referral.

How to obtain a referral for a CT scan? Usually, it’s issued by a specialist doctor, such as a dentist, otolaryngologist, or orthopedist. In practice, it depends on the type of diagnosed condition. In justified cases, such as assumption of a serious illness or specific medical indications, a general practitioner can also issue a referral. This typically happens when results from previous tests, like X-rays, suggest the need to expand diagnostics using CT.

It’s worth noting that the referral is not just a formal requirement. It helps the technician in performing the scan by indicating what to focus on and assists the doctor in interpreting the results, as it contains precise information about what should be included in the radiological report.

How to Prepare for a CT Scan?

Although a CBCT examination is non-invasive and painless, you should remember a few recommendations, including contraindications and guidelines on what not to do before the scan. Adhering to these rules ensures the examination proceeds correctly and minimizes the risk of image noise.

Key tips before a CBCT scan:

• Remove jewelry and metal objects (e.g., glasses) from the head, neck, and chest areas. Radiation does not pass through metal, which can lead to distortions in the image that hinder diagnosis.
• Avoid makeup. Some cosmetics may contain mineral particles or glitter with metal components, which can affect the quality of the images obtained.
• Inform about your health condition. Preparing for a CBCT scan should include informing the doctor about any ailments, such as respiratory infections. Inflammation can affect imaging and make diagnosis more difficult. In such cases, postponing the examination until recovery may be necessary.
• Inform about pregnancy. Although CBCT emits a lower radiation dose than traditional computed tomography, you should inform the diagnostic staff if you are pregnant. The doctor will decide whether to proceed as scheduled or postpone the scan to a later date.

How Does a CBCT Examination Proceed?

Besides knowing how to prepare, it’s helpful to understand how the CBCT scan is conducted. First and foremost, it’s quick and comfortable for the patient.

After arriving at the clinic and completing necessary paperwork, you’ll need to remove all metal objects and you will be positioned at the device. Depending on the type of examination, you may sit or stand. The scan takes a few seconds, during which the scanner makes a full rotation around your head, capturing images of the structures being examined.

A CBCT scan is completely painless and doesn’t require any form of anesthesia. After it’s finished, you can immediately return to your normal activities.

Every patient at the Skanai diagnostic center receives their examination on a CD or USB drive during the visit — at no extra charge. The results are also emailed shortly after, allowing you to conveniently forward them to your doctor. This significantly speeds up the diagnostic process and enables immediate steps toward treatment.

Read also: What You Should Know About Radiation in Imaging Diagnostics

Cone-beam computed tomography is a modern, safe, and effective diagnostic tool that provides precise images of anatomical structures. At Skanai, you can schedule a CT scan privately. However, remember that it’s not possible to undergo the examination without a referral. Before your visit, keep the recommendations above in mind. The specialist issuing the referral will explain how to prepare for the CT scan to ensure it’s safe and the results are as accurate as possible.