Neither ultrasound nor digital x-ray do not provide sufficient information on the state of the internal organs of the epigastrium. For the most accurate diagnosis doctors prescribe a computer tomography (multidetector scan) or CT of the abdominal cavity with contrast - the most modern way to identify various diseases in the early stages of progression. This technology allows you to visualize the organs in the form of an intuitive 3D model.
What is the result of CT scan of the abdominal cavity with contrast?
Due to the described diagnostic procedure it is possible to find out:
- localization and vastness of any inflammatory processes;
- benign or malignant neoplasms indicating their exact size;
- traumatic injuries of internal organs;
- metastasis of cancerous tumors;
- common and intercostatic abscesses;
- anomalies and deformities of the digestive system ;
- presence of solid stones;
- vascular pathological changes;
- problems in the functioning of lymph nodes;
- diseases of glandular organs.
How is it necessary to prepare for CT scan of the abdominal cavity with contrast?
Computer tomography is a quick and painless manipulation that does not cause any special discomfort. Immediately before conducting it, a specialist will ask you to wear a special robe or your own loose clothing, remove metal jewelry and accessories.
Preparation (preliminary) for CT of the abdominal cavity with contrast:
- 2-3 days before the research, exclude from the habitual menu all products that can provoke abundant gas formation in the intestines - cabbage, rye bread, radish, cherries, apples, legumes, buns, kvass, milk and others.
- At the same time, start taking sorbents, the usual activated charcoal will do.
- In the evening and in the morning, just before the tomography, carefully cleanse the intestines with an enema. The doctor will explain the details of its installation.
- Nothing to eat and it is advisable not to drink 8-9 hours before CT. The procedure is most informative if carried out on an empty stomach.
In the rest, no special training is required.
Manipulation is carried out quite quickly - a contrast drug is injected into the ulnar vein, after which the patient is placed on a horizontal table. The epigastric region is in the range of the tomograph, which within a few minutes makes a series of X-ray images transmitted to the doctor's computer.