A CT scan provides highly detailed information about the inside of your body.

Private CT Scan

No waiting times
Hospital in Newton-le-Willows
No NHS referral
From £430

Book a same day appointment

What is a private CT scan?

A CT scan provides highly detailed information about the inside of your body, using multiple specialised X-rays to create a more comprehensive image of the structures inside your body. It’s a painless, non-invasive way to obtain the information needed for a diagnosis. CT Scans are also used for health screening, so people with a high risk of heart disease or colon cancer, for example, can detect potential issues early.

Our CT Scans can give you, or your family member, complete peace of mind exactly when you need it most. Whether you want to get a closer look at a recent injury or need peace of mind regarding an ongoing health issue, we will provide top-level care.

Booking a CT scan couldn't be easier.

You can book a CT scan at Pall Mall without a referral from your doctor. It’s possible to book a same day appointment and the longest wait for an appointment is two or three days. We understand that you may feel a little nervous the first time you have a CT scan, but rest assured it’s a completely safe and painless procedure.

I have a referral form or letter: If you already have an imaging referral form or letter, we can book your scan appointment as soon as your referral has been reviewed by one of our experienced radiographers.
I don't have a referral form or letter: We offer CT scans on a self-referral basis too, meaning you don’t need to get a referral from your NHS GP. We offer a free of charge consultation with our own private GP who will obtain the clinical details the radiographer requires before performing the scan. Once this referral has been created and vetted by one of our experienced radiographers we can book you in for your scan right away.
I am the referring GP, Consultant or Physician: We have a very simply one-page referral template (available here) which you can download and return to us via email (gp@pallmallmedical.co.uk). Alternatively, you can send us your own imaging referral form or a clinic letter. Once we have all the referral information, we will contact the patient to book their scan. When the results are available, we will send you a copy of the report and we can also send you images of the scan.

What to tell your radiographer.

Some people cannot undergo a CT scan because the scanner can interact with certain metals. If you've had surgery that may have involved metal implants, it's important to inform the radiographer. You won’t be able to wear metal jewellery and will need to remove any piercings. If you’re pregnant you may be advised to have an ultrasound rather than a CT Scan.

Appointment Types

CT Scan

1 Area from £430
2 Areas from £550
3 Areas from £670

Results turnaround time: 3-5 days

From £430 Call Now Enquire now

CT Virtual Colonoscopy

Virtual Colonoscopy (inc images & GP follow up call: £840)

£745 Call Now Enquire now

CT Calcium Heart Score

Finance available
Very simple, quick is completely painless.
Cardiology Consultation is needed
Book today for same day or next day appointments

£395 Call Now Enquire now

*Any clinical services taken during the appointment will incur additional fees including testing, referral letters and prescriptions.

With a range of appointment times including after work, your health can come first.

Going private with Pall Mall

There are many reasons why people might start considering going private, especially when it comes to CT Scans. From long waiting lists and limited appointment times on the NHS, we understand the frustration that comes when you’re waiting on results - or simply waiting to be seen.

Those in need of urgent medical care can access our CT Scan services quickly, providing prompt support after consultation or for those who wish to be seen quickly without a referral.

Accessing the care you need couldn’t be simpler with Pall Mall.

Being a patient with us gives you unrivalled access to our own private hospital, based in Newton-le-Willows, so you can get the treatment you need with no fuss, no waiting, and no complications. Our hospital offers comprehensive care and high-end technology for you.

But we know that life goes on. That's why our highly-trained professionals have a wide selection of appointments available throughout the day, including after work hours, so your health can always come first, no matter the schedule.

Kerry Katona's Heart CT Scan

After Kerry's mum had a heart attack at the age of 62, she wanted to put her mind at rest and get her heart health checked with a CT scan at Pall Mall.

What is a heart CT scan?

A heart CT scan can detect heart disease in its earliest stages and help diagnose problems before they become life-threatening.

The scan is a quick, convenient, non-invasive way of evaluating the amount of calcified (hard) plaque in the heart vessels and can provide a first indication that you may be at a higher risk of having a heart attack.

You’ll be asked to lie on a bed that moves into the CT scanner. The bed moves a few millimetres at a time until the scan is finished, which will take from 20 minutes to an hour. The scanner consists of a ring that rotates around a small section of your body as you pass through it. 

Unlike an MRI scanner, it doesn't surround your whole body at once so you won’t feel enclosed. There are many reasons why you should book in for a CT scan. It's fast, easy and painless and could save your life, with results within only a few days

Do I meet the criteria to undergo a heart CT scan?

We are encouraging everyone to book in for a heart CT scan if they meet any of the criteria below:

family history of heart disease
you’re a woman over 50
you’re a man over 40
you have a red meat or high dairy diet
you have a high alcohol intake
you lead an inactive lifestyle or you are overweight
you have diabetes
you are an active or previous smoker

How does a CT scan work?

CT scans employ the same type of radiation used for X-rays but provide a more accurate three-dimensional image.

Unlike conventional X-rays, which take two-dimensional images to show structures inside the body such as bones, CT scans offer a clear view of inner organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues. These appear as cross-sectional images, which are produced during the scan.

During a CT scan, the patient lies on a table, which slides into a large tube. This tube contains an x-ray machine that takes photos of the inside of the body during a short, painless process that usually takes no more than 15 minutes.

The pictures taken during the scan then get sent to a computer, where a radiographer assembles the photos to create a 3D image. These are then passed on to the radiologist who will produce an in-depth report on the findings.

Depending on the situation, it's also possible for a physician to evaluate the images separately.

When are CT Scans used?

CT scans are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

Diagnosing a range of conditions: Identifying damage to internal organs and bones, blood flow problems like blood clots and strokes, and diagnosing cancer.
Guiding further tests and treatments: Assisting with procedures such as needle biopsies or monitoring tumours throughout treatment.
Planning and guiding surgeries: Helping medical professionals prepare for surgeries or serve as a navigational tool during procedures.
Imaging the muscular and nervous systems: Providing high-quality images to assess injuries or ongoing concerns, such as brain scans or broken bones.
Supporting cancer treatment: Determining the shape, size, and location of cancers before radiotherapy.

Thanks to the expert reporting provided by CT Scans, our images can help you diagnose, confirm or investigate a problem further - which can all be presented to your consultant.

Why might you need a CT scan?

Brain A scan of the head provides images of the brain from soft tissue and bone damage, inflamation to aneurysm assessment

Abdominal Pain Abdominal CT scans may utilise barium as a contrast dye to create detailed images of organs such as the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, ovaries and the uterus.

Spinal Issues & Chronic Pain A CT scan of the spine may be ordered if a person is experiencing chronic back pain or has sustained an injury to their spine.

Blood Vessels CT scans provide a detailed examination of blood vessels, enabling physicians to detect and identify blockages or other issues.

Sports injuries Any activity that resulted in possible severe internal injuries are great candidates for a CT scan as they typically yield more information than X-rays alone.

Small Bones When it comes to the arms, hands and feet, the bones can be small and difficult to see on traditional X-rays, which is where a CT scan can come in handy.

Find more here

What to expect

Feeling nervous? Or just want to learn more about the process? See each step in detail so you know exactly what to expect! At Pall Mall, we’re here to make your CT scan experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. From the moment you step into our hospital to your follow-up consultation, we’ll guide you through every step of the journey. Our expert team is dedicated to ensuring a stress-free experience in a relaxed and professional environment, so you can feel confident in your care.

How to prepare for a private CT Scan

There aren’t any special preparations you especially need to make on the day of your scan.

Simply arrive at our private hospital in Newton-le-Willows a little ahead of your planned appointment time and a friendly member of our team will direct you to the right place - we'll sort the rest.

Apart from remembering not to wear any metal, or having switched out any piercings for appropriate retainers, wearing loose and comfortable clothing might be a good idea.

Before you step into the scanning suite, you'll be asked to do the following:

Take off any jewellery or metallic accessories, such as a watch.
You will then remove all - or most - of your clothing and change into a medical gown.
However, depending on the area being scanned, you may be able to leave some clothes on - so make sure you take everything out of your pockets before entering the scanner.
To help improve image quality, you may have something called contrast material (a medical dye) put into your arm through a tube called an IV.

Once these are all boxed off, you can then carry on with the procedure.

Using 'Contrast Material' for medical imaging

For some CT scans, a special dye called contrast material is required to help highlight the areas of your body that are being looked at by your radiographer.

Contrast material blocks X-rays and shows up white on images, which 'light up' blood vessels, intestines, or other structures - giving us a better understanding of where issues might lie.

Contrast material might be given to you:

Intravenously: The most common method of administering contrast agents, a nurse or assistant can inject it using a thin, flexible plastic tube called an IV. A device is inserted into a vein in the arm to enhance the clarity of imaging for the gallbladder, urinary tract, liver or blood vessels.
Orally: Contrast material may be administered orally if imaging of the oesophagus or stomach is required.
Rectally: A contrast material may be inserted in your rectum to help radiographers fully visualise your intestines. As with other procedures, such as colonoscopies, this might make you feel a little uncomfortable or 'bloated', but it soon passes.

With most contrast materials administered by injection, you might feel a quick sting or pinching sensation when the IV is started.

The dye may make you feel warm or flushed and give you a metallic taste in your mouth. Some people feel sick or get a headache. Tell the radiologist or your doctor how you are feeling during the scan but don't worry, this will usually fade once the substance has passed out of your system.

Generally, radiologists believe that no special precautions are needed when breastfeeding and having a scan that involves contrast agents. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding the safety of dye usage in tests.

What happens during the scan?

Once you're prepped and have changed into a hospital gown (if required for your scan), you'll be taken to the CT scanning room and asked to lie on your back on a flatbed. The CT scanner consists of a ring that rotates around a small section of your body as you pass through it. Unlike an MRI scanner, it doesn’t fully enclose you, so you won’t feel enclosed or claustrophobic.

The radiographer will operate the scanner from the next room and communicate with you via an intercom system, providing instructions and checking in with you throughout. Before the scan begins, the machine will be positioned around the area of your body that needs investigating.

During the scan, the bed moves incrementally to complete the imaging. It’s important to remain still and maintain normal breathing to ensure clear, high-quality images. You may also be asked to breathe in, breathe out, or hold your breath at certain points.

The scan itself takes around 10 to 20 minutes, making it one of the quickest and easiest diagnostic procedures. Once it’s complete, the radiographer will let you know when you can move and get dressed.

What happens after the scan?

Generally, it only takes a few minutes to complete a CT scan, but you may have to stay around a bit afterward.

Although your time in the scanning suite will be relatively brief, you could be needed at the hospital for approx 30-60 minutes in total. This is to make sure you're safe to go home, as your healthcare team will be keen to check that everything has gone smoothly and you're feeling fit before heading back. For example, when you receive a contrast medium from a radiographer, you must wait to make sure you haven't reacted.

If you're feeling well following your scan, you can simply continue with your daily activities, such as driving and returning to work or back home if you choose to.

After your private CT scan at Pall Mall, you'll receive a full report from your expert radiologist explaining the results and whether any further tests or consultations are required.

CT scan results are considered to be normal if the radiologist doesn’t discover anything abnormal in the images.

But if anything is spotted, we'll arrange a consultation to discuss our findings, any concerns and how we'll move forward to help your health - together.

When a CT Scan might not be suitable

A CT Scan might not be the most suitable procedure for everyone. For example, the scanner can interact with metals so anyone who has had surgery that included metal implants will not be able to have a CT Scan.

Before your scan, it's crucial that you notify the radiographer if you have had previous surgery that placed metals inside your body.

Piercings

You will also be asked to remove any metal jewellery or piercings before entering the scanner, as these will be visible on the test results.

If you’re unable to remove your piercings, consider wearing a retainer - such as a lightweight ‘Bioflex’ retainer - and let us know in advance so we can determine whether your scan can go ahead as planned.

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or think that you may be expecting, then you should let us know as soon as possible.

CT Scans aren't usually recommended for pregnant people unless it's an emergency or in very serious circumstances.

This is due to the potential risk that the X-rays and very mild exposure to radiation could harm the baby.

However, that doesn't mean that there are no further options. If you're pregnant, an ultrasound might be recommended over a CT Scan - so you can still receive care and medical imaging in line with your needs.

Other health conditions

Before undergoing a private CT Scan, make sure you talk to your doctor about all your health conditions before the test.

We'll ask you some general questions, before giving you the opportunity to tell us if you:

Are allergic to any medicines.
Have diabetes.
Take metformin.
Are breastfeeding.

If you get nervous or panicked in confined spaces, we can help. Just let us know, as we may be able to prescribe you some medicine to help you relax throughout the procedure.

A CT Scan is a very safe procedure, with only a small amount of X-ray radiation exposure.

Safety of CT Scans

A CT Scan is a very safe procedure, with only a small amount of X-ray radiation exposure. The diagnostic benefits often far outweigh this minimal risk.

It’s also one of the simplest and most straightforward ways to identify the cause of a medical issue, though we understand it might feel a bit intimidating.

To put it into perspective, the average radiation dose from a CT Scan is roughly equivalent to what you’d naturally be exposed to over about three years in everyday environments.

Mild risks

But as with any medical procedure, there are small risks involved. These may be:

You could have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used
There is an increased risk to developing babies during pregnancy, which is why we advise against CT scans for pregnant women.
Mild exposure to ionising radiation

During CT Scans, radiation exposure may increase your chances of developing cancer many years later - but this risk is extremely small (less than 1 in 2,000) because the radiation doses are very low.

It's important to note that the amount of radiation you're exposed to during a CT scan can vary, depending on how much of your body is scanned.

But don't worry, as most scanners are designed to make sure you're not exposed to unnecessarily high levels.

A note on pelvis and abdominal scans

People who are larger in size may not be able to pass through the traditional CT scanner opening, as the usual maximum weight capacity of the movable table is typically 450 pounds.

If you're concerned, make sure to talk to your doctor ahead of your procedure so we can ensure the best course of action for your needs.

Possible switches to conventional x-rays

In other diagnostic situations, such as gallstones, an abdominal CT scanning may not be able to detect them with the same sensitivity as an abdominal ultrasound. Your doctor will decide which method will work best for the desired results.

In cases of acute abdominal conditions in infants, such as vomiting or the presence of blood in stool, doctors also tend to favour alternative imaging techniques like plain films, gastrointestinal (GI) contrast exams, and ultrasound.

Finally, in certain circumstances, MRI evaluation and diagnosis may be advantageous compared to CT scanning for liver, kidney, pancreatic, uterine, or ovarian abnormalities.

As always, your Pall Mall radiographer and doctor will make choices based on your unique anatomy and circumstances, to determine the best way forward.

Our Clinic Location

Newton-Le-Willows

Our Newton-Le-Willows location is a private hospital equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including industry-leading diagnostics and cutting-edge CT scanning services. Our specialist-built diagnostic centre offers private CT scans with precision imaging to support accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans. Whether for routine health assessments or specialist referrals, our advanced CT technology ensures fast, reliable, and high-quality results. As a CQC-registered hospital, we provide a discreet, relaxed, and professional environment where patients receive exceptional care and service. Book your private CT scan today and experience excellence in diagnostic imaging.

Private clinic & hospital
CQC registered
Appointment times to suit you
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot

No referrals needed and no waiting lists, so you can prioritise your health and peace of mind

Common issues that may require a CT Scan

Whether you've been feeling under the weather or want to monitor a pre-existing condition, a private CT Scan with Pall Mall can give you clear and concise answers - without the long wait.

In this section, we'll look at some of the most common procedures our CT Scan is capable of, giving you a little more insight into how our private service could benefit you and your family.

Examining Blood Vessels

CT scans provide a detailed examination of blood vessels, enabling physicians to detect and identify blockages or other issues. If you already have existing problems or health concerns, we can also confirm or reinforce the diagnosis of vascular disease without having to perform invasive exploratory surgery or surgical biopsies.

As such, a CT Scan prevents further stress and strain on the body - while providing sharp and granular imaging of blood vessels.

Diagnosing Abdominal Issues

Abdominal CT scans may utilise barium as a contrast dye to create detailed images of organs such as the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, ovaries and the uterus.

Some of the most common reasons you might seek a CT Scan include the following symptoms:

A mass in your abdomen
Abdominal pain
Unexplained weight loss
Possible obstructions in the small or large intestine
Possible inflammation in the intestines
Kidney stones

Examining Small Bones

When it comes to the arms, hands and feet, the bones can be remarkably small and difficult to see on traditional X-rays. As such, injuries in these areas may be difficult to spot from x-rays alone - which is where a CT scan can come in handy.

This method can provide physicians and doctors with incredibly clear images that may assist in surgical repairs.

Investigating Tumours

A CT scan is usually the first stage in the process when someone needs surgery to remove a tumour.

This is because a surgeon can carry out procedures like biopsies and removals much more quickly, confidently and effectively when they have as much knowledge as possible about the tumour's location and size.

Essentially, CT scans help doctors and surgeons assess the extent that a tumour has invaded surrounding tissue, which can enhance surgical outcomes and improve the effectiveness of additional treatment.

Guiding Cancer Treatment

CT scans are often crucial when it comes to cancer diagnostics and forming an ongoing treatment plan, creating a reliable framework that can be referred to - and relied on - by multiple doctors.

This can also provide further clarity when radiation treatment is administered, as CT scans are used to clarify the position of tumours to boost accuracy and ensure the right areas are being targeted.

Medical professionals also utilise CT scans to evaluate the effectiveness of chemotherapy, since the images provide clear margins regarding cancer progression and speed.

Examining Head and Brain Injuries or Issues

A CT scan of the head provides clear images of the brain that can be used to evaluate, identify and diagnose a number of issues.

Some of these include:

Traumatic head injuries
Headaches of varying intensity and longevity
Experiencing dizziness persistently
The presence of bleeding
Evidence, or likelihood, of stroke
Brain tumours

Although less common, a head CT scan can also help with :

Assessing soft tissue and bone damage resulting from facial trauma.
Developing a plan for surgical reconstruction.
Assessing issues related to the temporal bone in the skull that can lead to hearing difficulties.
Detecting inflammation in the sinuses.
Positioning and guiding the needle for a brain biopsy.
Identify and evaluate aneurysms.
Diagnosing Soft Tissue Damage

X-rays are less effective at displaying soft tissue structures - which is where CT Scans can play a pivotal role.

The dual advantage of CT scans is that they can provide physicians with comprehensive information regarding bone and soft tissue conditions, which can aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Diagnosing Spinal Issues and Chronic Pain

A CT scan of the spine may be ordered if a person is experiencing chronic back pain or has sustained an injury to their spine. Additionally, a doctor may also use a spinal CT scan for further diagnostics, or to do the following:

Analysing spinal fractures.
Evaluate the state of the spine before and after surgical procedures.
Diagnosing the source of spinal pain caused by conditions such as herniated disks.
Assessing bone density can help to determine the risk of fractures for individuals with high levels of osteoporosis.
Assessing congenital abnormalities and diagnosing scoliosis.
In these particular cases, CT scans are also useful when used alongside magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.

This is especially prevalent for patients experiencing the narrowing of the spinal canal, infections, or arthritis.

Investigating Recent Injuries or Accidents

Whether you're experiencing pain following a fall or want a closer look at an area that may have underlying problems after an accident, any activity that resulted in possible severe internal injuries are great candidates for a CT scan.

For emergency assessment of potential internal injuries, CT scans are usually the preferred imaging procedure and typically yield more information than X-rays alone.

Common accidents include motor vehicle accidents or other traumatic events, which are excellent recommendations for the quick and effective service Pall Mall's private CT Scans can offer.

Obtaining Images When MRI Is Not an Option

MRI and CAT scans are both used to obtain and examine diagnostic imaging.

While an MRI may not always be appropriate, a CT scan is usually a suitable option for a range of people and their symptoms.

Additionally, MRI scans can take much longer to complete when compared to CT scans, particularly if the patient cannot remain still for the necessary duration or experience anxiety or claustrophobia in enclosed spaces.

A CT scan is a non-invasive procedure, but it's ok to feel a little nervous ahead of your scan.

Is a CT scan painful?

If you, or a family member, are set to undergo a CT Scan - it's understandable that you'd feel a little nervous ahead of the procedure.

But other than these nerves, the test will not cause you any pain. This is because a CT scan is a non-invasive procedure that is relatively short compared to other imaging methods.

As such, it is over very quickly and you can go back to your daily activities in as little as an hour - with our friendly and dedicated team on hand from the moment you arrive at our private hospital to the second you leave with your results.

If you're still nervous, we can administer a special medicine to help you relax (a sedative) - which is administered through an IV in a similar fashion to contrast material.

As always, if you're feeling sick, woozy, or overly anxious, make sure to tell a member of the team so we can help - or stop the test, if needed.

We put you at the heart of everything we do

We put the patient at the heart of everything we do.

Pall Mall is a private medical provider owned and led by doctors –which means care without compromise. We’re driven by how best we can deliver what will make you feel great about yourself – from your first call right through to total, attentive aftercare.

Care Quality Commission Regulated.
State-of-the-art facilities.
No waiting lists.
Rated 4.95 by our patients.
No referrals required.

Why Choose Pall Mall?

As a proudly independent and Doctor-led private healthcare provider, we offer our patients quick and reliable service exactly when they need it. Throughout their journey with us, our goal is to help patients from up and down the country live longer, healthier, happier lives - a journey that starts with us.

That’s why our clinics have no waiting lists and we can usually book you in for a same-day appointment, with consultations and treatments designed to fit around you. We’re also open late nights and at weekends, so you can book an appointment at a time that suits you and your loved ones.

Pall Mall provides more than 70 medical services, with a variety of financing options. In this way, the cost can be spread out over several months or even several years if necessary - so worrying about cost doesn’t have to come at your health’s expense.

Our CQC registered clinics are located in Liverpool, Manchester city centre, and Newton-le-Willows in the North West, which is home to our privately-owned hospital.

Here, you’ll find our industry-leading scanning suites, which can help you establish a problem, find out what’s causing issues and get you on the road to recovery.

To book your private CT Scan with us today, give our friendly team a call.

Call Now Enquire now

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