If you have been told that your CT scan may involve “contrast,” you may wonder what it is and why it is needed. Contrast is a substance used to make certain structures easier to see on the scan. For some examinations it is given as a drink; for others, an iodine-based contrast agent is injected into a vein. Contrast helps certain structures, such as blood vessels and organs, stand out more clearly on a CT scan. Whether you need it depends on what your clinician is looking for

It is natural to have questions when you are booked for a CT scan, especially if it is your first. Knowing what happens at each stage can make the visit feel more manageable. CT stands for Computed Tomography. It uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of your body. The scanner is shaped like a large ring, and the examination table moves through its opening. The radiographer will explain the scan and help you into the right position. Before your sca

An X-ray is a quick way of creating an image of a particular part of the body. It can help your doctor investigate questions such as whether a bone is fractured or what may be happening in the chest. The examination is chosen to answer a specific clinical question. When you arrive, a radiographer will check the examination requested and explain how to position yourself. Depending on the body part, you may stand, sit, or lie down. You may need to move clothing, jewellery, or o

On the 15th of September 2026, we were pleased to welcome inspectors from the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) to Key Imaging for a pre-authorisation inspection of our facility. The inspection forms an important part of the regulatory process for facilities using ionising radiation and provided an opportunity for the NNRA team to review our CT and X-ray facilities, radiation protection measures, equipment and safety arrangements ahead of the commencement of clinic

The 20th of July 2026 was a significant day in the life of Key Imaging. It was the day a 16-year-old dream became a reality. A team came together under one banner to bring to life a vision that had once been carried by one person, but is now shared by many. It was, in every sense, the birthday of Key Imaging. There is something deeply special about watching a team choose to carry a vision you have nurtured for so long. It is the moment when a dream ceases to belong to its fou

If you have a painful shoulder, you’re not alone. Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems and can make everyday activities—like dressing, driving, or even sleeping—uncomfortable. The good news is that most causes of shoulder pain can be diagnosed accurately and treated effectively. A quick look at shoulder anatomy To understand shoulder pain, it helps to know a little about how the shoulder is put together. Your shoulder is a complex joint made up of:

Most neck pain is harmless and improves on its own. However, in some cases, it can be a sign of something more serious that needs medical attention. Understanding what causes neck pain — and knowing the warning signs — can help you decide when simple self-care is enough and when further assessment is important. Why does neck pain happen? Neck pain is very common and can affect people of all ages. It often develops due to everyday strain or age-related changes in the spine. Co

For many patients, the scan itself feels like the main event. In reality, it’s just the beginning. Here are the steps that have to take place once your request for imaging is received. Step 1: Image Acquisition Your scan is performed by a trained radiographer who ensures the images are clear and complete. Step 2: Image Review A radiologist carefully examines the images. This is not a quick glance—it’s a detailed analysis looking for subtle findings, and to answer th

The original vision was clear: to build a centre of excellence in diagnostic imaging. The focus was on delivering high-quality radiology services designed to support accurate and timely diagnosis. However, as the physical space began to take shape, so too did a broader perspective. When Vision Meets Opportunity Designing a healthcare facility is never just about walls and equipment—it’s about how people move through space, how services connect, and ultimately, how patients ex

It’s completely normal to be concerned about radiation. The good news is that modern X-ray technology uses very low doses, and is carefully controlled. How much radiation are we talking about? A standard chest X-ray exposes you to a small amount of radiation—comparable to what you naturally receive from the environment over a few days. Why the risk is low Equipment is designed to minimise exposure Only the necessary area is scanned Scans are only done when medically

When your doctor recommends imaging, one of the most common questions is: “Why this scan and not another?” Two of the most widely used tools are CT scans and X-rays. While they may seem similar, they serve very different purposes. What is an X-ray? An X-ray is a quick, simple test that is excellent for: · Detecting fractures · Assessing chest conditions (like infections) · Looking at basic bone structure It’s usually the first step because it is fa

Sudden, severe pain in the side of the abdomen or lower back that radiates to the groin can be frightening. When this pain is accompanied by blood in the urine, doctors often suspect kidney stones . This classic presentation is known as renal colic . Patients are frequently referred for imaging to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment. So which scan is best — CT or ultrasound ? The answer depends on the situation. What Causes Renal Colic? Kidney stones form when minera

Most people are familiar with the idea of a heart attack. A stroke is often described as a “brain attack” —and just like a heart attack, it requires rapid diagnosis and treatment . Imaging plays a critical role in stroke care, and patients often ask why a CT scan is done first , with an MRI sometimes performed later. Understanding this pathway can help explain how doctors make urgent decisions. What Causes a Stroke? A stroke occurs when part of the brain loses its vital

When it comes to stroke, time is critical . The faster a stroke is recognised and treated, the better the chance of limiting brain injury and improving recovery. A simple way to remember the most common stroke symptoms is the FAST test : F – Face Is one side of the face drooping? Ask the person to smile — does it look uneven? A – Arms Is there weakness or numbness in one arm? Ask the person to raise both arms — does one drift downward? S – Speech Is speech slurred, unclear,

Chest pain and breathlessness are symptoms that understandably cause anxiety. They can come on suddenly, feel alarming, and raise concerns about serious conditions such as heart or lung disease. A common question patients ask is: What scan do I need to start with? In many cases, the answer is a chest X-ray —but there are times when more advanced imaging is needed. Why Chest Pain and Breathlessness Can Be Hard to Diagnose Chest pain or shortness of breath can arise from a wi

Right-sided lower abdominal pain is a symptom that often raises concern for appendicitis . It’s a common condition, but diagnosing it accurately — and quickly — is essential to avoid complications. When imaging is needed, patients often ask: Should I have an ultrasound or a CT scan? The answer depends on several factors, but one of the most important is age . Why Imaging Is Important in Suspected Appendicitis Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and infec

Abdominal pain is a very common reason people seek medical care, and it can be caused by many different conditions. When imaging is needed, patients often ask: Should I have an ultrasound or a CT scan? Both ultrasound and CT are excellent tools for investigating abdominal pain. The choice depends on age, symptoms, and what the doctor is most concerned about . Abdominal Imaging in Children: Why Ultrasound Comes First In children, ultrasound is usually the first and best tes

If your doctor has referred you for imaging, you may wonder why a CT scan was recommended instead of an MRI , or vice versa. While both scans produce detailed images of the body, they are used for different clinical purposes . Understanding the difference can help you feel more informed and confident about your scan. What Is a CT Scan? A CT (Computed Tomography) scan uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. CT scans are: Fast and widely availab

Headaches are one of the most common reasons adults seek medical advice. While most headaches are harmless, many people understandably worry about whether they need a scan—and if so, whether a CT scan or an MRI is the right choice. The answer depends on the type of headache and whether there are any warning signs that suggest an underlying cause. Understanding the Different Types of Headaches Doctors broadly classify headaches into two categories: primary and secondary

When Imaging Is Urgently Needed In medical imaging, “red flags” are symptoms that may indicate a serious underlying condition and require urgent investigation . Recognising these red flags helps doctors decide when imaging should not be delayed. Common Red Flags Red flags may include: Sudden or severe pain Progressive weakness or numbness Fever with concerning symptoms Unexplained weight loss Abnormal neurological findings These symptoms don’t always mean something serious