CT SCAN OF WHOLE BODY

CT scan of Whole-Body Overview

Introduction 

A Whole Body CT (Computed Tomography) Scan evaluates all the body systems in one single diagnostic imaging session scrutinizing them with cross-sectional imaging. It enables the early detection, evaluation and monitoring of a myriad of medical conditions by capturing images in fine subdivisions and slices from the head to the toe. This scan is particularly useful in trauma, oncology, and full body health check assessments.  

What is a Whole-Body CT Scan? 

The Whole-Body CT scan covers the entire body, including the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and limbs. The images capture every skeletal and vascular detail alongside the tissues to ensure precise diagnosis and follow-up, utilizing rotating X-ray tubes and powerful computers. 

Parameters Considered

• Head and brain structures  
• Neck anatomy, including the thyroid and lymph nodes  
• Chest and lung fields  
• Cardiovascular condition  
• Abdomen containing liver, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen  
• Pelvic organs and bones  
• Spine alignment and bones of extremities  

Reasons for the Test

• Follow-up assessment after major trauma.  
• Cancer screening or cancer follow-up. 
• Assessment of systemic infections. 
• Evaluation of body pain, fatigue, or any nonspecific symptoms. 
• General examination. 

When and Who Needs This Scan? 

Indications: 

• Evaluation of major trauma or polytrauma  
• Diagnosis of cancer, staging, or detection of metastasis  
• Whole-body screening procedure for specific high-risk patients (e.g., cancer, heavy smokers, genetically at risk)  
• Evaluation of infection or inflammatory diseases  
• Surgical follow-up for post-operative patients with systemic disease  

Patient Demographics: 

• Traumatic patients in need of emergency care  
• Oncology patients for disease staging or management  
• Patients seeking proactive health-checks  
• Systemic symptom carriers, i.e. unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue, and chronic tiredness  

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Fast and effortless. 
• All-inclusive assessment in one appointment. 
• Accurate identification of pathological changes in bones, organs, and vessels. 
• Ability to observe asymptomatic diseases in early stages. 
• Important in managing both acute and chronic conditions. 

Conditions Diagnosed

• Fractures or intra-abdominal bleeding. 
• Malignant and metastatic lesions. 
• Nodular lung lesions and pulmonary embolism. 
• Masses in the abdomen or pelvis. 
• Disorders of the spine and degenerative changes. 
• Abnormal blood vessels (false aneurysms, stenosis). 

Preparation

• 4-6 hours fasting if contrast will be used. 
• Drink plenty of fluids unless contraindicated. 
• Dress in plain clothes without any metal for the scan. 
• Tell the radiologist about previous scans, surgeries or implants with metal parts. 

Pre-requisites 

• Physician referral. 
• Kidney screening (serum chemistries for creatinine) if contrast will be utilized. 
• History of allergy to provided contrast. 

Best Time to Take the Scan 

• Based on clinical indications or scheduled health examination.  
• Prefer morning hours for scans with contrast. 

Eligibility 

Recommended for many adults and young adults. 

• Should only be done during pregnancy if necessary. 
• Kidney patients and those with allergies must be assessed prior to receiving a contrast. 

Procedure 

• The patient is supine on the CT scanner bed. 
• The entire body from head to toe is covered. 
• The scan is headfirst, then - in segmental fashion - through the pelvis/extremities. 
• If necessary, contrast can be given through an IV. 
• The process usually lasts between fifteen to thirty minutes.  

Caution 

• Not moving at all during the scan is essential.  
• The technician must be informed of metallic implants, pregnancy, or previous issues with contrast.  
• The use of contrast can induce a temporary feeling of warmth and a metallic taste.