If you have been referred for an examination to Royal Papworth Hospital's Radiology department, we hope you find the below information useful. If you have any further queries you may call the team directly using the numbers below. 

The Radiology department runs five days a week for booked cases, offering a clinical service to the local and visiting cardiologists, chest physicians, oncologists, transplant and surgical teams, and provides 24-hour cover for emergencies. Direct access to a range of imaging tests is available to GPs and hospital clinicians from other Trusts.

Outside of normal working hours (Monday to Friday 0900 to 1700) emergency cover is provided by an on-site radiographer.

Contacts

Radiology booking office: 01223 638808
General enquiries and Radiology reception: 01223 638000 ext 86257
PACS Office: 01223 638593

Frequently asked questions

What is a cardiac CT scan?

Computerised Tomography or ‘CT’ is a special type of X-ray that uses a computer to create cross-sectional (or slice-like) pictures of the body. The CT scanner is a large X-ray machine that has a short, open-ended tube in the middle (like a polo mint).

What is an angiogram?

A coronary angiogram will find out whether you have narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries or any problems with your heart valves or heart pump. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic injected into the skin. A small tube (catheter) is passed into your artery in your groin (or occasionally the arm) through a fine tube. Using X-rays, the catheter is directed through the blood vessels into the heart. A 'dye' is then injected into the catheter which highlights the arteries supplying the heart.

What is an MRI scan?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging - also known as an MRI scan - is a technique which produces detailed pictures of your internal organs. It is a type of diagnostic imaging test which makes pictures using a high powered magnet and radio waves. It is extremely useful showing defects in the structure of the heart, coronary heart disease and can show how the heart is working.

What is a Nuclear Medicine scan?

A small amount of radioisotope is administered by a small injection, usually into a vein at the elbow. The blood then transports the radioisotope to the organ/system being observed. The radioisotope can be imaged using a gamma camera and these images are reported by a nuclear cardiologist or radiologist.

Although you are given appointment times, the amount of time taken to complete each individual patient’s examination can be quite variable, so please ensure that you set aside plenty of time for your visit.