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What Is Abdominal Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning?
Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scanning is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create detailed 3-D pictures of the abdominal and pelvic organs, including the intestines, liver, kidneys, gallbladder and spleen. CT scans provide doctors with a better view of the organs, as well as any tissues or other structures that may be causing pain or other symptoms.
What Does an Abdominal CT Scan Help Diagnose?
An abdominal CT scan can help diagnose a wide range of illnesses, issues, and complications, including:
•Infections:
CT scans can help confirm or diagnose bacterial or viral infections.
•Tumors:
CT scans can be used to detect, evaluate and stage tumors that affect the stomach, liver, intestines or other parts of the abdominal cavity.
•Inflammation:
CT scans can help doctors identify inflammation of the intestines, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
•Massive Bleeding:
CT scans can be used to diagnose the source of internal bleeding and to confirm a suspected ulcer or other structural problem in the stomach or intestines.
•Abnormalities in the Bowel:
CT scans can help diagnose a variety of small bowel abnormalities, including obstruction and narrowing of the intestine due to a tumor, scar tissue or inflammation.
•Cancer:
Abdominal CT scans can help detect the presence and extent of certain types of cancers, including those of the liver, pancreas, colon and rectum.
Why Do Doctors Use an Abdominal CT Scan?
CT scans provide doctors with detailed information about the activity, size and shape of organs and tissues in the abdominal cavity. The cross-sectional images they provide make it easier for doctors to pinpoint the cause of problems, including blockages, blood clots, and infections. They can also help doctors diagnose certain types of cancer, determine the extent and seriousness of the cancer, and plan a course of treatment.
How Do I Prepare for an Abdominal CT Scan?
Before having your abdominal CT scan, your doctor may advise you to:
•Stop Eating and Drinking:
Most abdominal CT scans are done in the morning and you may be asked to stop eating and drinking for up to 8 hours before your procedure.
•Talk to your Doctor about Medications:
Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
•Take a Laxative:
Some abdominal CT scans require the patient to take a laxative the night before the procedure.
•Stop Taking Certain Medications:
Your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain medications before having an abdominal CT scan.
Conclusion
An abdominal CT scan is a quick and highly effective method of diagnosing a wide range of abdominal illnesses and complications. It provides doctors with detailed images of the abdominal organs, as well as any blockages, blood clots, infections and tumors. If you have any questions about abdominal CT scanning, talk to your doctor.