• General Stats
• Indication for the Test
• Preparation
• Procedure
• After the Test
• Factors Affecting the Results
• Advantages
• Disadvantages

General Stats:

• Description-A CT scan involves taking X-ray pictures of the body and using computers to combine these pictures into a high-resolution image, making small abnormalities detectable. A radiology technician performs the test at a x-ray facility. The results are interpreted by a Radiologist. A CT scan takes about an hour to complete.
• Discomfort - Minimal. An intravenous line has to be placed. The x-ray table can be uncomfortable to some people, the contrast dye can cause a hot flush and some people may experience anxiety during the test.
• Results - Usually within 1-2 days. Results can be available within 1 hour in emergent situations
• Risks of Procedure - Adverse reaction to contrast dye, risks associated with radiation during pregnancy
• Average Cost - $$$
• Other Names CT scan, CAT scan and computed axial tomography of the abdomen.
  [Back to Top]

Indication for the test

• To evaluate abdominal pain.
• To evaluate the organs of the abdomen including the stomach, small bowel, large bowel (colon), appendix, liver, gall bladder, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, lymph nodes and female organs ·
• To detect cysts, abscesses and cancer.
  [Back to Top]

Preparation

• A blood test of kidney function might be performed first to determine if the dye could be used safely.
• Avoid eating for four hours before the test.
• Some patients may require a sedative before the test.
• You remove all clothing and wear a hospital gown.
  [Back to Top]

Procedure

• About one hour prior to the test you may be asked to drink a solution of barium to provide an outline of the digestive tract. Contrast dye may be injected into your vein to highlight blood vessels.
• While lying flat on the CT table, it is slowly moved through the center of the CT scanner.
• You are instructed to remain still and to hold your breath when each picture is taken.
  [Back to Top]

After the Test

• After dressing, you may leave.
  [Back to Top]

Factors affecting the results

• Body movement affects image quality.
  

Advantages

• Allows for identification of small abnormalities (as little as .5 inches in size) in and around the organs of the abdomen.
  [Back to Top]
  

Disadvantages

• Main disadvantage is the expense of the procedure.
• Although abnormalities can be located, the exact cause of the abnormality may not be apparent.
  [Back to Top]