CT THORAX & UPPER ABDOMEN

A CT scan of the thorax and upper abdomen is an imaging technique that employs X-ray and computer technology to obtain detailed sectional images of the chest and upper abdomen. This examination is often utilized in the diagnosis and evaluation of conditions affecting the lungs, heart, oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, and other adjacent soft tissues.  

What is a CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan? 

A CT scan involves a rotating X-ray beam that captures several images of the body from varying perspectives. The images captured are processed using computer software to create detailed cross-sectional images of the internal structures of the body. A CT Scanner Is a large doughnut shaped machine that the patient lies in during the test. 

Types of CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scans 

There are different types of CT scans used to image the thorax and upper abdomen, including: 

• Non-contrast CT: This test does not use a contrast agent and is typically done on patients with kidney disease or allergies. 

• Contrast-enhanced CT: This test uses a contrast agent to increase the visibility of some structures or tumours.  

• High-Resolution CT (HRCT): This test is used to evaluate lung diseases or other conditions by using a higher dose of X-rays and more detailed imaging. 

List of Parameters Considered During the CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan

During the examination, healthcare providers will look for the following parameters: 

• Lung patterns and their internal make-up  

• The heart, its size and operation 

• Stomach and oesophagus shape constitution 

• Morphology of pancreas and liver 

• Cysts, tumours and other abnormal growths if present 

Patient specific considerations may also include: 

• Age and pre-existing medical conditions 

• Specific surgical implants or prosthesis 

Reasons for Taking a CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan

The test may be recommended for various reasons such as: 

• Assessing unexplained troubling symptoms 

• Keeping track of existing conditions like cancer or other chronic illnesses 

• Response evaluation after treatment 

• Screening for cancer or other disorders of the lungs 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan?  

Patients with the following symptoms may require an upper abdomen and thorax CT scan:  

• Chest pain and shortness of breath 

• Pain and persistent cough alongside trouble swallowing 

• Tenderness or pain in the abdomen 

• Sudden, unexplained weight loss or fatigue 

• Fever or chills 

• Diastolic blood pressure of 120 mm Hg  

Key demographics that may need the evaluation are:  

• Current or ex-smokers 

• Patients suffering from lung, heart, or gastrointestinal issues 

• Patients with a history of cancer or hereditary disorders  

Benefits of Taking the Test

Benefits of thorax and upper abdomen CT scans: 

• Proper, timely and consistent assessment of various illnesses 

• Finding signs of developing cancer or other life-threatening diseases at earliest 

• Assisting in surgeries by guiding biopsies or treatments  

• Evaluating post-op results. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan

Lung cancer and lung nodule are part of the illnesses that can be diagnosed. Additionally, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is another condition. 

• Bronchitis and emphysema. 

• Also includes heart disease like coronary artery disease. 

• Cancers of the oesophagus and stomach. 

• Cancers of the pancreas, along with pancreatitis. 

• Diseases of the liver and liver cancer.  

Preparing for the CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan

As for patients, they need to:  

• Dress in relaxed apparel.  

• Take off any jewellery or metallic items.  

• Refrain from eating and drinking for a set duration usually two to four hours before the test.  

• Tell the technician of any medical conditions, allergies, or medications.  

Pre-requisites 

Post history and current health details might be required.  

• Women of childbearing age must undergo a pregnancy test.  

• Abstaining from taking certain medications.  

Best Time to Take the CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan  

This test can be done any time but should be done in consultation with a healthcare provider to help pick the best time to conduct the test. 

Eligibility 

This test is generally recommended for patients who: 

• Display symptoms or have a diagnosed ailment 

• Show a familial predisposition towards cancer or genetic syndromes. 

• Are already likely to suffer from some other ailment (for example, smokers) 

Some exceptions could be: 

• Expecting mothers 

• Patients with some other specific health conditions or certain implants. 

Procedure for Taking a CT Thorax and Upper Abdomen Scan 

The test can be conducted in the following stages: 

1. Preparation and positioning: A Patient is required to be positioned supine on the CT scan table 
2. Scanning: The thoracic and upper abdominal regions are scanned contiguously through X ray. 
3. Manual Administration (when needed): A contrast agent is administered via peripheral IV access to enhance specific region of interest. 
4. Scanning through Administered Contrast (if required): the relevant scans will be conducted. 
5. Image reconstruction: The computer processes the collected data and generates a cross-sectional image of the area. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients are able to: 

• Explain any health issues to the technologist concerning the patient. 

• Refrain from any metal objects or clothing. 

• Refrain from the use of any metal parts on clothing. 

• Adhere to any additional guidance offered by the medical specialist.