Abdominal CT Scan What is CT? A CT Scan (also called CT, computerized tomography, or CAT Scan) is an x-ray technique that produces images, with the aid of a highly sophisticated computer, of your internal organs that are more detailed than those produced by conventional x-ray exams. When is an Abdominal CT Scan Recommended? Your doctor may recommend an abdominal CT Scan to help: Pinpoint the location of a tumor, infection, or blood clot Detect and monitor diseases such as cancer Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding CT Scans can be performed even if you have a pacemaker or an internal defibrillator. If you are pregnant, or suspect you may be, your doctor may suggest postponing the CT Scan or choosing an alternative exam that does not involve radiation. Please notify the technologist if you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant. To Prepare for an Abdominal CT Scan: Please dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, with no metallic objects near the area to be scanned. Before the scan begins, you may be required to drink approximately 24 ounces of a contrast agent (this depends on the nature of your test). This oral contrast aids in differentiating the digestive structures from the other organs in the body. The CT Scan will be scheduled depending on the point in which you start drinking the contrast. The oral contrast will need to pass through a significant portion of the bowel before the CT Scan begins, so there will be a delay between the time that you drink the contrast and the time that the scan is performed. This delay gives the contrast time to move thorough the bowels. The contrast will pass through the stools and may have a slight laxative effect. You do not need to fast before your exam, but your stomach should be sufficiently empty enough to consume all of the oral contrast. Your scan may also require you to have an IV injection of an iodine-based contrast (also known as x-ray dye). This helps the radiologist visualize the vessels in the body. During the injection, you may feel a warm sensation and minor discomfort during the injection, which lasts only a minute. This is a normal part of the exam. If you have known allergies to iodine (x-ray dye), please inform your physician before your exam as you may need to take some medications beforehand. In rare cases, a patient may receive a rectal contrast via an enema. You may continue to take all of your medication as normal. If you are a diabetic and take Metformin, Gluocophage, Glucovance, or Avadament, you may take your medication the morning of the exam. If an injection of iodine contrast was used, you must discontinue those medications for 48 hours after your scan. Before resuming you medications, you will need to have a Creatinine blood test to be sure that your kidneys are functioning normally prior to resuming your diabetic medication. This test is arranged through your doctor’s office. During the exam, you will be asked to lie on a narrow table. The CT Technologist will position the area to be studied. You will occasionally hear some simple breathing instructions. Please try to remain very still. The less movement that occurs, the clearer the images. The CT Scanner is shaped like a large doughnut, with the table centered in the “doughnut hole” in the middle. The area being imaged will be placed in the center of the doughnut, which usually results in either the head or the feet being free of the CT machine proper. The opening is large enough that most people will not feel constricted. However, if you have claustrophobia, or are concerned about becoming claustrophobic, please discuss your concerns with your physician and the CT Technologist prior to your exam. Results The results of your CT Scan will be available after a radiologist has had time to study and interpret your exam. This generally takes 4-5 business days to complete.