Understand your scan. Feel prepared for your visit.
Medical names can feel unfamiliar. These short guides explain the terms, the questions to ask and the next steps, so you can discuss your care with confidence.
These tests look inside the body in different ways. The best examination is the one that answers your doctor’s question. A more detailed or more expensive scan is not automatically the right choice.
Examination
In simple terms
What to discuss
Computed tomography (CT)
X-rays and a computer produce cross-sectional pictures, like slices through the body.
Why this scan is needed, radiation and whether contrast medium (special dye) is required.
Ultrasound (sonography)
Sound waves make pictures of organs and soft tissues. No X-rays are used.
Which area is being examined and whether fasting or a full bladder is needed.
Digital X-ray (radiography)
X-rays create a flat picture from a particular direction.
The body area and views (directions of the pictures) requested.
Can I choose a scan myself?
You can ask about a scan, but first explain the symptom or concern. The clinical team can assess whether it is suitable. A scan cannot replace a medical assessment, and one normal test cannot rule out every condition.
Preparation depends on your examination. Ask IIHC for your own instructions before travelling. You do not need to guess or follow advice meant for somebody else’s scan.
1. Confirm the details
Check the scan name, appointment time, total charges and expected visit length. Ask how and when your report will be provided.
2. Bring useful information
Bring identification, any referral letter, earlier relevant reports or images, and a list of your medicines. If using a panel, confirm its approval requirements.
3. Tell the clinical team
Mention possible pregnancy, kidney problems, allergies and previous contrast reactions. Ask your doctor about medicines. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
Do I need to fast or drink water?
Fasting means avoiding food for a specified period. Some ultrasound examinations need fasting, while others need a full bladder. Most routine X-rays need little preparation. CT instructions depend on the examination. Ask about food, water and medicines separately, especially if you have diabetes.
What happens on the day?
The team checks your details and explains the scan. You may need to change into a gown or remove metal items from the area. Ask questions before the examination starts and tell the team if you are uncomfortable. Follow the aftercare instructions given for your own scan.
Walk-ins welcome, subject to assessment and availability. Walk-in diterima, tiada rujukan diperlukan. Contact us first to confirm preparation and avoid an unnecessary journey.
Understanding your radiology report
A radiologist (a specialist doctor who interprets medical images) writes the report. It helps your doctor understand the pictures alongside your symptoms, examination and other test results.
Findings
What the radiologist saw in the areas examined.
Impression
The main conclusions and any recommended next steps.
Comparison
How the current images compare with earlier scans, if available.
What do unfamiliar words mean?
Unremarkable generally means nothing noteworthy was seen in that area. Incidental finding means something noticed that may be unrelated to the reason for the scan. It does not automatically mean something serious, but follow-up may still be needed.
What should I ask my doctor?
Does this explain my symptoms?
Do I need treatment, another test or follow-up?
When should I arrange the next appointment?
What should I do if my symptoms continue or change?
Do not make treatment decisions from a single phrase. If the report is unclear, ask your doctor to explain it. A reassuring scan does not mean persistent symptoms should be ignored.
Let us help you plan the next step
Tell our team which examination you are asking about. We can help with appointment arrangements, preparation and fees.
