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CT Abdomen and Pelvis

  1. The test that has been ordered for you is a LOW DOSE CAT SCAN, also known as CT (Computerized Axial Tomography). Low Dose means there will be less radiation dose on this type of CT Unit. CNT has a sophisticated scanner that provides a three-dimensional image of the inner structure of a patient’s body. The CT scanner takes x-ray pictures of cross-sections of the body, called “slices. Using the latest computer technology, the data can be reconstructed so that the Radiologist can look at body parts from various angles.
  2. PREPARATION:

ABDOMEN/PELVIS CT:

  • DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING FOR 2 HOURS PRIOR TO YOUR APPOINTMENT TIME.
  • You will be asked to drink a liquid called barium, which is an inert ingredient that highlights the intestines.
  • You should receive a bottle of this liquid to take home with you at the time that you schedule your appointment. YOU WILL NEED TO DRINK THE BARIUM 2-HOURS PRIOR TO YOUR EXAM TIME. If for some reason, you are not given the barium, you will need to come to the Radiology Department 2 hours prior to the appointment time.
  • Some CT’s require use of a contrast agent. If so, contrast will be administered through your veins via an IV started in your arm. Once the IV is started, the technologist will then be able to begin the exam. The contrast is excreted by the kidneys. In order to evaluate kidney function, lab work may be needed.
  • If you must have the lab done on the same day as your CT, it must be performed at least 2 hours prior to your appointment time so that we can receive the results prior to your test.