|
|
 |
 Abdominal CT scan   DefinitionAn 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 Alternative NamesHow the test is performedYou 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 testTell 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 feelThe 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 performedAn abdominal CT rapidly creates detailed pictures of the belly area. The test may be used to:
Normal ValuesWhat abnormal results meanThe CT scan may show the following:
What the risks areAn abdominal CT scan is usually not recommended for pregnant women, because it may harm the unborn child. Women who are or may be pregnant should speak with their health care provider to determine if ultrasound can be used instead. CT scans and other x-rays are strictly monitored and controlled to make sure they use the least amount of radiation. CT scans do create low levels of ionizing radiation, which has the potential to cause cancer and other defects. However, the risk associated with any individual scan is small. The risk increases as numerous additional studies are performed. In some cases, a CT scan may still be done if the benefits greatly out weigh the risks. For example, it can be more risky not to have the exam, especially if your health care provider thinks you might have cancer. The most common dye used is iodine based. A person who is allergic to iodine may have nausea, sneezing, vomiting, itching, or hives. Rarely, the dye may cause anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic response). Special considerationsA CT scan provides a better picture of internal organs than traditional x-rays. The benefits of an abdominal CT scan usually far outweigh the risks of radiation exposure. ImagesReferences
Reviewed by: Jeffrey J. Brown, M.D., F.A.C.R., Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Review date: 2005-01-24 A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission www.urac.org. URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial process. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics www.hiethics.com and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation www.hon.ch. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Adam makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.  |
 Advertisement
 Related Topics
|
||||||
|
HealthCare.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatments.
Copyright © 2006-2008 HealthCare.com Inc.
|
 |
