What are the common side effects of a barium CT scan. How does a barium swallow test work. What should patients expect during a barium enema procedure. When should someone avoid having a barium test. How can patients prepare for a barium examination.

What is a Barium CT Scan and How Does It Work?

A barium CT scan, also known as a barium swallow test, is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and other parts of the digestive system. This test involves ingesting a white, chalky liquid called barium sulfate, which is visible on X-rays. As the barium passes through the digestive tract, it coats the inner lining of the organs, allowing radiologists to visualize their structure and detect any abnormalities.

Why do doctors recommend barium tests? These examinations are particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as:

• Frequent, painful heartburn
• Gastric reflux
• Difficulty eating, drinking, or swallowing
• Ulcers
• Abnormal growths
• Blockages
• Narrowing of the digestive tract

By providing detailed images of the digestive system, barium tests enable healthcare professionals to identify and assess various gastrointestinal issues effectively.

Preparing for a Barium CT Scan: What Patients Need to Know

Proper preparation is crucial for ensuring accurate results from a barium CT scan. Here are some key points patients should be aware of:

• Fasting: Patients are typically required to abstain from eating or drinking for several hours before the test.
• Medication adjustments: In some cases, doctors may advise patients to temporarily stop taking certain medications.
• Lifestyle changes: Some hospitals recommend avoiding chewing gum, eating mints, or smoking cigarettes after midnight on the day before the test.
• Clothing: Patients will need to change into a hospital gown for the procedure.
• Support: While patients can bring a friend or relative for support, companions are usually not allowed in the X-ray room.

What should diabetic patients do to prepare for a barium test? For individuals with diabetes, special considerations apply:

• Morning appointments are typically scheduled.
• Patients taking diabetes tablets should not take their medication before the test but bring it with them, along with some food, to consume after the examination.
• Insulin users may be asked to skip their morning dose and possibly the previous evening’s dose. They should bring their insulin and food to have post-test.
• Those on long-acting insulin should continue their regular dosage.

The Barium Swallow Test Procedure: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Understanding the barium swallow test procedure can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth experience. Here’s what patients can expect:

1. Arrival at the hospital’s X-ray department
2. Changing into a hospital gown
3. Entering the X-ray room
4. Drinking the barium liquid (which may be flavored)
5. Possible injection to relax the stomach (in some cases)
6. Alternating between standing and lying on a tilting table during the examination
7. Multiple X-ray images taken as the barium travels through the digestive system

How long does a barium swallow test typically take? The entire procedure usually lasts about 60 minutes. Patients can generally return home immediately after the test, with results typically available within 1-2 weeks.

Common Side Effects and Risks Associated with Barium CT Scans

While barium CT scans are generally safe, patients may experience some side effects. It’s important to be aware of these potential issues:

• Nausea: Some patients may feel nauseous after the test, but this typically subsides as the barium passes through the system.
• Constipation: Drinking plenty of fluids can help alleviate this common side effect.
• White-colored stools: This is normal for the first few bowel movements following the test.
• Radiation exposure: The amount of radiation used in the X-ray process is minimal and generally considered safe.
• Temporary blurred vision: This can occur due to the stomach-relaxing injection given to some patients.

Are there any long-term risks associated with barium tests? Barium sulfate is considered safe and non-toxic, as it passes through the digestive system without being absorbed by the body. However, patients with specific health conditions should consult their healthcare provider about potential risks.

Special Considerations and Contraindications for Barium Tests

While barium tests are generally safe, there are certain situations where they may not be recommended or require special precautions:

• Pregnancy: Barium swallow tests are not recommended for pregnant women due to radiation exposure risks.
• Glaucoma or heart problems: The stomach-relaxing injection may be omitted for patients with these conditions.
• Allergies: Patients with known allergies to barium or other contrast materials should inform their healthcare provider.
• Digestive tract perforation: In cases where there’s a suspected perforation in the digestive system, alternative imaging methods may be preferred.

What should patients do if they have concerns about undergoing a barium test? It’s crucial to discuss any worries or medical conditions with the healthcare provider before the procedure. They can provide personalized advice and determine if the test is appropriate or if alternative diagnostic methods should be considered.

Barium Enema: An Alternative Barium Test for Colon and Rectum Examination

In addition to the barium swallow test, another type of barium examination is the barium enema. This procedure is specifically designed to evaluate the colon and rectum. Here’s what patients should know about barium enemas:

• Duration: The test typically takes about 40 minutes.
• Preparation: Patients are given a laxative the day before the test to clear out the bowel.
• Procedure: The patient lies on their side on an X-ray table while a mixture of barium and water is introduced into the rectum through a small plastic tube.
• Air inflation: Air is also pumped through the tube to inflate the bowel, allowing for better visualization.
• Positioning: The table tilts to spread the barium throughout the colon.
• Imaging: X-rays are taken to capture images of the colon and rectum.

How does a barium enema differ from a barium swallow test? While both tests use barium as a contrast agent, the barium enema focuses on the lower digestive tract, whereas the barium swallow examines the upper digestive system. The method of barium administration also differs, with the enema using rectal insertion rather than oral ingestion.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery After a Barium Test

After undergoing a barium test, patients should be aware of proper post-procedure care to ensure a smooth recovery:

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush the barium from the system and prevents constipation.
• Diet: Gradually return to a normal diet, starting with light, easily digestible foods.
• Bowel movements: Expect white or light-colored stools for the first few bowel movements.
• Activity: Most patients can resume normal activities immediately, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for 24 hours.
• Follow-up: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to discuss results and potential treatment plans.

What should patients do if they experience prolonged side effects after a barium test? While most side effects are mild and short-lived, patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience severe abdominal pain, prolonged constipation, or difficulty passing stools for more than a few days after the procedure.

Alternatives to Barium Tests: Exploring Other Diagnostic Options

While barium tests are valuable diagnostic tools, there are situations where alternative imaging methods may be more appropriate. Some alternatives to barium tests include:

• Endoscopy: A procedure that uses a small camera to directly visualize the digestive tract.
• CT scans: Advanced X-ray technology that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images without radiation.
• Ultrasound: Sound waves are used to produce images of internal organs.
• Nuclear medicine scans: Radioactive tracers are used to highlight specific areas of the body.

How do healthcare providers determine which diagnostic test is most appropriate? The choice of imaging method depends on various factors, including the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and the specific area of concern. Healthcare providers consider these aspects to select the most effective and least invasive diagnostic approach for each individual case.

Technological Advancements in Barium-Based Imaging

As medical technology continues to evolve, barium-based imaging techniques have also seen significant improvements. Some recent advancements include:

• Digital radiography: This technology allows for faster image acquisition and processing, reducing radiation exposure.
• Dual-energy subtraction: A technique that can separate bone and soft tissue images, enhancing visibility of certain structures.
• 3D reconstruction: Advanced software can create three-dimensional models from barium test images, providing a more comprehensive view of the digestive system.
• AI-assisted analysis: Artificial intelligence algorithms are being developed to help radiologists interpret barium test results more accurately and efficiently.

How have these advancements improved patient care? These technological developments have led to more precise diagnoses, reduced radiation exposure, and faster turnaround times for test results, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of patient care in gastrointestinal diagnostics.

Pediatric Considerations for Barium Tests

When it comes to performing barium tests on children, special considerations are necessary to ensure their comfort and safety:

• Age-appropriate preparation: Explanations and instructions are tailored to the child’s age and understanding.
• Parental involvement: Parents or guardians are often allowed to stay with the child during the procedure for emotional support.
• Modified techniques: Smaller amounts of barium and specialized equipment may be used to accommodate a child’s size.
• Distraction methods: Various techniques, such as videos or music, may be employed to help keep children calm during the test.
• Sedation: In some cases, mild sedation may be considered for very young or anxious children.

What are the unique challenges of performing barium tests on pediatric patients? Children may have difficulty following instructions or remaining still during the procedure. Additionally, their smaller size and faster metabolism can affect how quickly the barium moves through their system. Pediatric radiologists are specially trained to address these challenges and ensure accurate results while minimizing stress for young patients.

The Role of Barium Tests in Cancer Screening and Diagnosis

Barium tests play a crucial role in the detection and diagnosis of various gastrointestinal cancers. Here’s how these tests contribute to cancer screening and diagnosis:

• Early detection: Barium tests can reveal abnormal growths or tumors in the digestive tract before they cause noticeable symptoms.
• Staging: For known cancers, barium tests can help determine the extent of the disease and its spread within the digestive system.
• Treatment planning: The detailed images provided by barium tests assist oncologists in developing effective treatment strategies.
• Monitoring: After cancer treatment, barium tests may be used to check for recurrence or to evaluate the effectiveness of therapy.

How do barium tests compare to other cancer screening methods for the digestive system? While barium tests are valuable, they are often used in conjunction with other screening tools such as colonoscopy, endoscopy, and blood tests. Each method has its strengths, and healthcare providers may recommend a combination of tests for comprehensive cancer screening and diagnosis.

Patient Education and Informed Consent for Barium Tests

Proper patient education and informed consent are essential components of the barium test process. Healthcare providers should ensure that patients understand the following aspects:

• Purpose of the test: Clear explanation of why the barium test is being recommended.
• Procedure details: Step-by-step description of what to expect during the examination.
• Potential risks and side effects: Discussion of possible complications and common after-effects.
• Alternative options: Information about other diagnostic methods that may be available.
• Preparation instructions: Detailed guidelines on how to prepare for the test, including dietary restrictions.
• Post-procedure care: Instructions for self-care after the test and when to seek medical attention.

Why is informed consent crucial for barium tests? Informed consent ensures that patients are active participants in their healthcare decisions. It allows them to weigh the benefits and risks of the procedure and make an informed choice about whether to proceed with the test. This process also helps build trust between patients and healthcare providers, leading to better overall care experiences.

As we continue to explore the complexities of barium CT scans and related procedures, it’s clear that these diagnostic tools play a vital role in modern gastroenterology. By understanding the process, potential side effects, and alternatives, patients can approach these tests with confidence and make informed decisions about their healthcare. Healthcare providers, in turn, can use this knowledge to deliver more personalized and effective care, ultimately improving patient outcomes in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.

What to expect and side effects

A barium swallow is a type of test used to look inside the esophagus, or food pipe. A doctor might recommend this test if they need to look at the outline of any part of a person’s digestive system.

Barium is a white liquid that is visible on X-rays. Barium passes through the digestive system and does not cause a person any harm.

As it passes through the body, barium coats the inside of the food pipe, stomach, or bowel, causing the outlines of the organs to appear on X-ray.

Share on PinterestA barium swallow can help a doctor identify problems in the food pipe, stomach, or bowel.

A barium swallow test may be used if someone has any of the following conditions:

• frequent, painful heartburn
• gastric reflux, where food or acid keeps coming back up the food pipe
• difficulty eating, drinking, or swallowing

This test can give a doctor information about how the person is swallowing.

It can also reveal if someone has any of the following in their food pipe, stomach, or the first part of the bowel:

• ulcers
• abnormal growths
• blockages
• narrowing

If someone has a tumor, this will show up on the X-ray as an irregular outline that extends from the wall of the affected organ.

People who are undergoing a barium swallow should not eat or drink for a few hours before the test. In some cases, the doctor may ask the person to stop taking medication before the test.

Some hospitals recommend not chewing gum, eating mints, or smoking cigarettes after midnight the night before a barium swallow test.

The test takes around 60 minutes and will take place in the X-ray department of the hospital. A person will need to change into a hospital gown.

People can bring a friend or relative for support. However, the companion will not be able to join them in the X-ray room.

In the X-ray room, the person drinks the barium liquid. It often has a chalky taste but can sometimes be flavored.

Share on PinterestA person will lie on a tilting table for part of the examination.

In some cases, a person will be given an injection to relax their stomach.

A person will be standing for some parts of the examination, and lying down on a tilting table for other parts. This allows the liquid to travel through the body, and for the radiologist and radiographer to take a selection of images.

People do not have to stay in hospital after the test and are free to go home as soon as it is complete. The results usually arrive within 1-2 weeks.

Risks and side effects

Patients may feel nauseous after a barium swallow test or become constipated. Drinking lots of fluids can help to relieve constipation. Symptoms of nausea should improve as the barium passes through the system.

It is normal for people to have white-colored stools the first few times they use the toilet after having a barium swallow test.

Some people might worry about being exposed to radiation as part of the X-ray process. However, the amount of radiation a person is exposed to is minimal.

Sometimes, the injection given to relax the stomach can cause temporary blurred vision.

Special considerations

People should not have a barium swallow test if they are pregnant.

If someone has glaucoma or heart problems and needs to have a barium swallow, the doctor may not give the stomach-relaxing injection.

If someone has diabetes then the doctor will schedule a morning appointment for the barium swallow.

If the person takes tablets to control their diabetes, the doctor will tell them not to take the medicine before the test. Instead, they should bring their tablets and some food to the exam to have after it is complete.

People who use insulin will be asked to miss their morning dose and maybe the previous evening’s dose. They should bring their insulin and some food to have after the test. However, those who take long-acting insulin should continue taking this.

Share on PinterestA barium enema allows doctors to examine the colon and rectum.

Another type of barium test is a barium enema. The barium enema test is similar to the barium swallow test and is used by doctors to examine the colon and rectum.

This test usually takes about 40 minutes. A person will be given a laxative the day before having a barium enema test. A laxative is a medicine that helps to clear out the bowel.

During the test, the person lies on their side on a table in the X-ray room. An enema containing barium and water is fed into their rectum through a small plastic tube. Air is also piped through the tube to inflate the bowel.

The table tilts, which spreads the barium throughout the colon. This allows the radiologist and radiographer to clearly see any lumps or swellings within the colon.

The person has to try and hold the liquid in the rectum while the test takes place. Afterwards, most of the liquid drains back into the tube and does not stay in the body.

After having a barium enema test, people may experience some cramping or diarrhea. As with the barium swallow, someone undergoing a barium enema may also have white stools the first few times they go to the toilet after the test.

There is a very small risk of the bowel lining tearing when having this test. This complication only tends to happen if the bowel is very inflamed.

Alternatives to a barium swallow test

An alternative to a barium swallow is a gastroscopy. In this procedure, a narrow, flexible, telescopic camera is used to look inside the food pipe, stomach and the first part of the small intestine.

A computed tomography (CT) scan may also be used in combination with a gastroscopy to provide X-ray images of the gut.

Abdominal CT Scan with Contrast: Purpose, Risks, and More

A CT scan of the abdomen can show the organs, blood vessels, and bones in your abdominal cavity. The multiple images provided give your doctor many different views of your body.

A CT (computed tomography) scan, or CAT scan, is a type of specialized X-ray. The scan can show cross-sectional images of a specific area of the body.

With a CT scan, the machine circles the body and sends the images to a computer, where they’re viewed by a technician.

Keep reading to learn why your doctor may order an abdominal CT scan, how to prepare for your procedure, and any possible risks and complications.

Abdominal CT scans are used when a doctor suspects something might be wrong in the abdominal area but can’t find enough information through a physical exam or lab tests.

Some of the reasons your doctor may want you to have an abdominal CT scan include:

• abdominal pain
• a mass in your abdomen that you can feel
• kidney stones (to check for size and location of the stones)
• unexplained weight loss
• infections, such as appendicitis
• to check for intestinal obstruction
• inflammation of the intestines, such as Crohn’s disease
• injuries following trauma
• recent cancer diagnosis

You may have heard of other imaging exams and wonder why your doctor chose a CT scan over other options.

Your doctor may choose a CT scan over an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan because a CT scan is faster than an MRI. Plus, if you’re uncomfortable in small spaces, a CT scan would likely be a better choice.

An MRI requires you to be inside an enclosed space while loud noises occur all around you. In addition, an MRI is more expensive than a CT scan.

Your doctor may choose a CT scan over an X-ray because it provides more detail than an X-ray does. A CT scanner moves around your body and takes pictures from many different angles. An X-ray takes pictures from one angle only.

Your doctor will probably ask you to fast (not eat) for two to four hours before the scan. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications before your test.

You may want to wear loose, comfortable clothing because you’ll need to lie down on a procedure table. You may also be given a hospital gown to wear. You’ll be instructed to remove items such as:

• eyeglasses
• jewelry, including body piercings
• hair clips
• dentures
• hearing aids
• bras with metal underwire

Depending on the reason why you’re getting a CT scan, you may need to drink a large glass of oral contrast. This is a liquid that contains either barium or a substance called Gastrografin (diatrizoate meglumine and diatrizoate sodium liquid).

Barium and Gastrografin are both chemicals that help doctors get better images of your stomach and bowels. Barium has a chalky taste and texture. You’ll likely wait between 60 and 90 minutes after drinking the contrast for it to move through your body.

Before going into your CT scan, tell your doctor if you:

• are allergic to barium, iodine, or any kind of contrast dye (be sure to tell your doctor and the X-ray staff)
• have diabetes (fasting may lower blood sugar levels)
• are pregnant

About contrast and allergies

In addition to barium, your doctor may want you to have intravenous (IV) contrast dye to highlight blood vessels, organs, and other structures. This will likely be an iodine-based dye.

If you have an iodine allergy or have had a reaction to IV contrast dye in the past, you can still have a CT scan with IV contrast. This is because modern IV contrast dye is less likely to cause a reaction than older versions of iodine-based contrast dyes.

Also, if you have iodine sensitivity, your healthcare provider can premedicate you with steroids to reduce the risk of a reaction.

All the same, be sure to tell your doctor and the technician about any contrast allergies you have.

A typical abdominal CT scan takes from 10 to 30 minutes. It’s performed in a hospital’s radiology department or a clinic that specializes in diagnostic procedures.

1. Once you’re dressed in your hospital gown, a CT technician will have you lie down on the procedure table. Depending on the reason for your scan, you may be hooked up to an IV so that contrast dye can be put into your veins. You’ll probably feel a warm sensation throughout your body when the dye is infused into your veins.
2. The technician may require you to lie in a specific position during the test. They may use pillows or straps to make sure you stay in the right position long enough to get a good quality image. You may also have to hold your breath briefly during parts of the scan.
3. Using a remote control from a separate room, the technician will move the table into the CT machine, which looks like a giant doughnut made of plastic and metal. You’ll most likely go through the machine several times.
4. After a round of scans, you may be required to wait while the technician reviews the images to make sure they’re clear enough for your doctor to read.

The side effects of an abdominal CT scan are most often caused by a reaction to any contrast used. In most cases, they’re mild. However, if they become more severe, you should call your doctor right away.

Side effects of barium contrast can include:

• abdominal cramping
• diarrhea
• nausea or vomiting
• constipation

Side effects of iodine contrast can include:

• skin rash or hives
• itching
• headache

If you’re given either type of contrast and have severe symptoms, call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away. These symptoms include:

• trouble breathing
• rapid heart rate
• swelling of your throat or other body parts

An abdominal CT is a relatively safe procedure, but there are risks. This is especially true for children, who are more sensitive to radiation exposure than adults. Your child’s doctor may order a CT scan only as a last resort, and only if other tests cannot confirm a diagnosis.

Risks of an abdominal CT scan include the following:

Allergic reaction

You may develop a skin rash or itchiness if you’re allergic to the oral contrast. A life-threatening allergic reaction can also happen, but this is rare.

Tell your doctor about any sensitivities to medications or any kidney problems you have. IV contrast raises the risk of kidney failure if you’re dehydrated or have a preexisting kidney problem.

Birth defects

Because exposure to radiation during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects, it’s important to tell your doctor if you are or might be pregnant. As a precaution, your doctor may suggest another imaging test instead, such as an MRI or an ultrasound.

Slightly increased risk of cancer

You’ll be exposed to radiation during the test. The amount of radiation is higher than the amount used with an X-ray. As a result, an abdominal CT scan slightly increases your risk of cancer.

However, keep in mind that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that any one person’s risk of cancer from a CT scan is much lower than their risk of getting cancer naturally.

After your abdominal CT scan, you can likely return to your regular daily activities.

Results for an abdominal CT scan typically take one day to process. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss your results. If your results are abnormal, it could be for several reasons. The test could have found problems, such as:

• kidney problems like kidney stones or infection
• liver problems like alcohol-related liver disease
• Crohn’s disease
• abdominal aortic aneurysm
• cancer, such as in the colon or pancreas

With an abnormal result, your doctor will likely schedule you for more testing to find out more about the problem. When they have all the information they need, your doctor will discuss your treatment options with you. Together, you can create a plan to manage or treat your condition.

CT scan of the abdominal cavity – computed tomography of the abdominal cavity with interpretation in Moscow: addresses, prices | Dikul Center

CT scan of the abdominal cavity – computed tomography of the abdominal cavity with interpretation in Moscow: addresses, prices | Center of Dikul | Center Dikul

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Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce horizontal or axial images (sections) of the body. CT can be done with or without “contrast”. The contrast may be given orally or intravenously.

Abdominal CT can provide more detailed information about abdominal organs and structures than standard abdominal x-rays.

Abdominal CT can also be used to visualize the abdominal organs for more accurate biopsy or aspiration of fluid from the abdomen. Abdominal CT allows monitoring of tumors and other pathologies of the abdomen, before and after treatment.

Indications for abdominal CT

Abdominal CT scan is ordered when the doctor suspects that there is an abnormality in the abdomen, but cannot obtain enough information through a physical examination or laboratory tests.

Some reasons why abdominal CT may be recommended:

• abdominal pain
• Abdominal mass on palpation
• kidney stones (to check the size and location of stones)
• unexplained weight loss
• infections such as appendicitis
• suspected intestinal obstruction
• intestinal inflammation such as Crohn’s disease
• abdominal injuries
• having a diagnosis of cancer

Computed tomography risks

• Radiation risks may be associated with the cumulative number of x-rays and/or lengthy procedures.
• Radiation exposure during pregnancy may cause birth defects.
• When using a contrast agent, there is a risk of an allergic reaction to the carrier.
• If the patient is taking metformin/glucophage or another drug, the patient may be asked to stop taking the drug for at least 48 hours after the contrast medium is injected, as this can cause a condition called metabolic acidosis.
• Patients with kidney failure or other kidney problems should notify their physician. In some cases, contrast media can cause kidney failure, especially if the person is dehydrated or already has kidney disease.

Certain factors or conditions can affect the accuracy of an abdominal CT scan. These factors include, but are not limited to:

• Metal objects inside the abdomen, such as surgical clamps
• Barium in the intestine after a recent study
• Stool and/or intestinal gas
• Total Hip Replacement

How to prepare for a CT scan?

• Precautions: Pregnancy – other testing methods are recommended to reduce the risk of fetal exposure to radiation.
• Clothing: The patient may be asked to change into a disposable gown. It is necessary to remove all piercings and leave all jewelry and valuables at home.
• Contrast media: CT with or without contrast media
• Some patients should not have iodine-based contrast agents, especially if they have impaired renal function.
• The patient will be asked to sign a consent form detailing the risks and side effects associated with the contrast medium.
• The most common type of contrast-enhanced CT scan is the dual-contrast study, in which contrast is administered both orally and intravenously.
• Allergy: when planning a CT scan, it is necessary to report if there has been an allergic reaction to any contrast agent. Contrast will not be used if the patient has had a severe or anaphylactic reaction to any contrast media in the past.
• Eating/Drinking: If the doctor has ordered a CT scan without contrast, the patient may eat, drink, and take prescribed medications prior to the examination. If the doctor ordered a CT scan with contrast, three hours before the examination, it is recommended to avoid eating and drink clear liquids.

Diabetes: Diabetics should eat a light breakfast or lunch three hours before the scan time. Depending on oral diabetes medications, the patient may be asked to stop using the medication within 48 hours of the CT scan.

Medications: All patients can take their prescribed medications as usual.

What happens during a CT scan?

CT can be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of a patient’s hospital stay.

Typically, a CT scan proceeds as follows:

• The patient may be asked to change into a patient gown. All piercings and jewelry must be removed.
• If the patient is undergoing a procedure with contrast, the contrast is administered intravenously and may also be administered orally. In some situations, contrast may be administered rectally.
• The patient will lie on a scanning table that slides into the large round opening of the scanner. pillows and belts may be used to prevent movement during the procedure.
• The X-ray technician will be in another room where the scanner controls are located. However, the patient will be in the field of view of the laboratory assistant through the window and there is an audio link.
• When the scanner starts to rotate around the patient, the X-ray beams will pass through the body for a short period of time. The patient may hear clicking sounds.
• X-rays absorbed by body tissues will be detected by the scanner and transferred to a computer. The computer converts the information into an image for interpretation by the radiologist.
• It is important that the patient remains very calm during the procedure. During the procedure, the patient may be asked to hold their breath at different times.
• If a contrast agent is used for the procedure, the patient may experience some effects from the injection of contrast such as a feeling of redness, a salty or metallic taste in the mouth, a short-term headache or nausea and/or vomiting. These effects usually last for several minutes.
• The patient should notify the technician if they experience difficulty breathing, sweating, numbness, or rapid heart rate.
• After the procedure is completed, the patient dismounts from the scanner.

Although the CT procedure itself does not cause pain, the need to remain still during the entire procedure may cause some discomfort or pain, especially in the case of a recent injury or an invasive procedure such as surgery.

What happens after a CT scan?

If contrast was used during the procedure, the patient may be monitored for some time for any side effects or reactions to the contrast dye, such as itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.

If a patient notices pain, redness and/or swelling at the site of intravenous contrast after returning home, they should report this to their physician as this may indicate an infection or other complication.

If there are no reactions, the patient may resume normal diet and exercise.

What do abnormal CT scan results mean?

Abdominal CT may show some types of cancer, including:

• Cancer of the renal pelvis or ureter
• Colon cancer
• Hepatocellular carcinoma
• Lymphoma
• Melanoma
• Ovarian cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Pheochromocytoma
• Kidney cancer
• Cancer metastases from other areas of the body

Abdominal CT may reveal problems with the gallbladder, liver, or pancreas, including:

• Acute cholecystitis
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Cholelithiasis
• Abscess of the pancreas
• Pancreatic pseudocyst
• Pancreatitis
• Blockage of bile ducts

Abdominal CT may reveal the following kidney problems:

• Kidney blockage
• Hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney from backflow of urine)
• Kidney infection
• Kidney stones
• Injury to the kidneys or ureters
• Polycystic kidney disease

Abnormal results can also be caused by:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Abscesses
• Appendicitis
• thickening of the intestinal wall
• Crohn’s disease
• renal artery stenosis
• renal vein thrombosis

Examination methods other than CT can be used to diagnose abdominal pathologies: MRI, PET, abdominal ultrasound, endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy, etc.

Treatment

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Types of examinations CT

• brain CT
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• CT angiography of the vessels of the lower extremities
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• CT of the bones of the facial skeleton
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• CT scan of the thymus
• Lung CT with contrast
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Computed tomography

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Koimshidi Olga Alekseevna

MRC Belyaevo

Kondratyeva Irina Viktorovna

MRC Belyaevo

Sedov Victor Alekseevich

MRC Belyaevo 900 03

Lamonov Pavel Yurievich

MRC Belyaevo

Intestinal CT scan: indications and preparation

Computed tomography is a non-invasive diagnostic method that provides detailed images of internal organs. CT quickly and painlessly determines the sources of the problem, gives an assessment and location of the pathological process. You can take a test at the DonMed clinic at any time by appointment.
You can learn more about how the examination is carried out and prices for CT by clicking on the link.

The essence of computed tomography

CT in gastroenterology and other areas of medicine combines the use of an X-ray unit and computer processing of the resulting image. The method gives complete and clear images, unlike conventional X-ray examination. During the scan, the doctor receives a whole series of images, the thickness of the sections is from 1 mm, which makes it possible to detect even the smallest formations, pathological processes in the early stages of development.

Some patients are treated with contrast-enhanced CT, which is the injection of contrast agents that stain tissues with intense blood flow. In the pictures, the affected areas will have a brighter color, which allows you to get more information about the location, extent and overall nature of the oncological processes. Contrast is administered intravenously, orally, or in a combination way. The decision on the advisability of contrasting is decided on an individual basis, taking into account the anamnesis, diagnostic tasks.

Indications for examination

CT scan of the intestine is most often required to identify the causes of obstruction, identify volumetric formations, and pathological processes in the intestinal walls. CT detects ulcerative foci, inflammatory processes. The patient can be referred for research for differential diagnosis:

• stenosis;
• diverticulitis;
• bleeding;
• damage to the walls of the small, large intestine;
• autoimmune pathologies that affect the gastrointestinal tract, such as Crohn’s disease;
• ulcerative processes;
• malignant and benign formations.

The study may be indicated to assess the condition of the intestine after injuries, foreign bodies. CT scan is often required before surgery to accurately determine the scope of work, to assess the features of the anatomy.

Bowel CT preparation

Ignoring preparation recommendations will lead to inaccurate examination results, so it is important to properly prepare for the procedure. 2-3 days before CT it is necessary to switch to a diet, exclude:

• foods that cause increased gas formation: raw vegetables and fruits in large quantities, legumes, all types of cabbage, sour milk, sour products;
• fatty, fried;
• carbonated drinks;
• alcohol.

For three days it is necessary to exclude preparations containing iron, activated charcoal and other agents that fix feces and can provoke constipation. The day before the procedure, switch to liquid food, broths, water without gas. On the eve of the CT scan, it is necessary to clean the intestines with an enema or laxatives recommended by the doctor. The last meal is 6 hours before the procedure.

If the patient has documents related to the disease, for example, the results of previous examinations, examination protocols, extracts from the medical book, it is better to take them with you. The documents will be returned after the CT scan.

Contraindications to CT

Absolute contraindication to the study is pregnancy. Due to radiation exposure, it is also not recommended for young children. If CT with contrast is planned, then additional contraindications are:

• intolerance to iodine-containing preparations;
• renal, hepatic insufficiency;
• diabetes mellitus.

Relative contraindication – breastfeeding. In this case, the woman needs to stop feeding until the contrast agent leaves the body.

How is the study going?

The procedure involves infusing the intestines with air or carbon dioxide to spread the intestinal loops for improved visualization and detection of pathological processes in hidden areas. The patient is placed on a movable table, fixed in the desired position and pushed into the apparatus, as if into a tunnel. You need to lie still.

There is noise during the scan, special headphones or ear plugs are offered for comfort. The duration of CT is about 20-30 minutes. During the study, a series of black-and-white images are obtained, which are studied by the doctor. The patient can collect the results approximately one hour after the examination.

Intestinal CT at the DonMed clinic is performed on an expert-level tomograph, which ensures the accuracy of the study and the high quality of the images obtained. Our specialists carry out diagnostics of any part of the body quickly, professionally and efficiently. With the results of the research, you can make an appointment with the right specialist to determine further treatment tactics. For more information and to book an appointment, please call the phone number provided.

You can find out the prices for CT by clicking on the link.

The staff of the medical center consists of experienced, competent doctors who constantly improve their skills and know everything about innovative diagnostic methods. We value the health of our patients and approach treatment with the utmost responsibility and attention. Due to advanced expert-class equipment, diagnostics is highly effective and safe.

As a useful bonus, a 5% discount is provided for patients who belong to a social group.

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