CT WHOLE ABDOMEN (WITH CONTRAST)

CT Whole Abdomen (with Contrast) Overview

A scan CT Whole Abdomen (with contrast) is utilized to assess and examine a patient’s abdomen. This includes all internal organs and structures, as well as blood vessels and the abdominal wall. 

This test is commonly used for screening abdominal pain, liver or pancreas disorders, and as a follow-up during cancer therapy. 

Patients are usually required to fast for 4-6 hours before the test. Some patients will additionally need to drink oral contrast media for better imaging. 

What is CT Whole Abdomen (with Contrast)? 

The CT Whole Abdomen scan captures photos of abdominal organs like liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bowels with high precision. These organs are in the upper and lower cavities of the abdomen that are separated by the diaphragm which consists of two parts: thoracic and abdominal cavities. 

This technology has a rotating x-ray source and detector that produces data that can be reconstructed by a computer into hundreds of images. 

Types of CT Whole Abdomen with contrast 

Patients who are not able to receive contrast media may use: 

• Non-contrast CT: for patients who cannot receive contrast media 

• Contrast CT: utilizes iv and or oral contrast to enhance the internal structures of the body 

• Contrast Enhanced CT: uses intravenous and/or oral contrast to highlight internal structures 

• Spiral or helical CT: takes images of a patient with a spring motion to obtain detailed images of the patient 

List of Parameters Considered During the CT Whole Abdomen with Contrast

The CT doctors consider the parameters provided below during the whole abdomen test: 

• Liver size and texture 

• Pancreatic size and texture 

• Splenic size 

• Kidney size and function 

• Bowels wall thickness and integrity 

• Tumours, cysts, and other abnormalities which are noted during the scan. 

Reasons for Taking a CT Whole Abdomen with Contrast

• Possible symptoms for which this test is prescribed include: 
• Abdominal pain or tenderness 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Weight loss 
• Jaundice 
• Blood in the urine or stool 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Whole Abdomen (with Contrast)? 

This exam can be given after the following clinical considerations: 

• Undiagnosed pain in the abdomen 

• Liver or pancreas disease suspected 

• Abdominal injuries 

• Cancer staging or surveillance 

• Identification of renal or bile duct calculi 

This examination can be done regardless of age, depending on medical history and clinical findings. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Advantages of the CT Whole Abdomen scan include: 

• Quick and accurate diagnosis of abdominal conditions 
• Ability to detect and monitor cancer progression 
• Guidance for biopsies and other interventional procedures 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Whole Abdomen (with Contrast)

Common conditions diagnosed using this test include: 

• Liver disease (cirrhosis, fatty liver) 
• Pancreatic disease (pancreatitis, cancer) 
• Kidney disease (kidney stones, cancer) 
• Bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) 
• Abdominal trauma or haemorrhage 

Preparing for CT Whole Abdomen (with Contrast)

Preparations include: 

• Avoiding eating for at least 4-6 hours prior to the scan 
• Drinking oral contrast media as directed 
• Informing the technician of any medical conditions, allergies, or previous reactions to contrast media 

Pre-requisites 

• Pre-test requirements include: 
• Removing any metal objects from the body (e.g. jewellery, glasses) 
• Wearing a hospital gown or loose, comfortable clothing 
• Having an intravenous line placed for contrast administration 

Best Time to Take the CT Whole Abdomen (with Contrast) 

• The test can be performed at any time, but it is usually recommended to schedule the scan in the morning to minimize preparation time. 

Eligibility: If patients are pregnant or breastfeeding, they should notify their physician prior to taking the test due to possible radiation risks. Patients suffering from kidney disease or any past allergic reactions to the contrast media should also discuss with their physician before scheduling the scan. 

Procedure For CT Whole Abdomen with Contrast: The test process usually involves the steps below: 

• Registration and preparation which takes 30 minutes. 

• Placement of intravenous line and administration of contrast which takes 15 minutes 

• Scanning takes between 10-15 minutes. 

• Procedure time totals approximately 1 hour. 

Caution Prior To The Test: Patients should inform the technician of all known medical conditions and any allergies or previous reactions to contrast media. Patients with a past medical history of kidney disease or kidney stones should be well hydrated prior to the test and plenty of water after the test to minimize the chances of kidney damage.