Abdominal CT scan Health Article
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Definition
An abdominal CT scan is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the belly area. CT stands for computed tomography. See also: CT scan
How the test is performed
You will be asked to lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of the CT scanner. Usually, you will lie on your back with your arms raised above the head. The health care provider may inject a dye into one of your veins. This helps certain diseases and organs show up better on the images. Once inside the scanner, the machine's x-ray beam rotates around you. Small detectors inside the scanner measure the amount of x-rays that make it through the abdomen. A computer takes this information and creates several individual images, called slices. You must be still during the exam, because movement causes blurred images. You may be told to hold your breath for short periods of time. The actual scan time only takes a few minutes, although the entire procedure usually takes much longer.
How to prepare for the test
Tell the health care provider if you have any allergies or have had difficulty with previous CT scans. If contrast or sedation is used, you may also be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4-6 hours before the test. Since x-rays have difficulty passing through metal, you will be asked to remove jewelry and wear a hospital gown during the study.
How the test will feel
The x-rays are painless. Some people may have discomfort from lying on the hard table. Contrast give through an IV may cause a slight burning sensation, a metallic taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These sensations are normal and usually go away within a few seconds.
Why the test is performed
An abdominal CT rapidly creates detailed pictures of the belly area. The test may be used to:
What abnormal results mean
The CT scan may show the following:
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include the following:
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Reviewer Info: Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 01/24/2007 |
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