What is a CECT abdominal scan?
Contrast-enhanced (CE) computed tomography (CT), also known as a CECT abdomen scan, is the diagnostic imaging technology used for the abdomen region that employs contrast medium during a CT scan to produce a more detailed and clearer image of the bones, soft tissue, internal structures, and pathology.
The contrast medium can be given intravenously or orally.
Why is a CECT abdomen scan done?
A CECT abdomen scan may be done to evaluate the abdomen as well as its organs for any pathologies or conditions, especially when other tests, such as a physical examination or X-rays, are inconclusive.
The CECT scan uses contrast material that helps improve the visualisation of the abdomen and its surrounding structures.
Your doctor may order an abdominal CECT scan for a variety of reasons, including:
- Pain in the abdomen
- Suspected cancer
- To evaluate treatment progress
- Infection or inflammation
- Gallbladder or kidney stones
- For determining the size and location of the tumour
How to prepare for a CECT abdomen scan?
• You will most likely have to fast for 4 to 6 hours prior to the scan. Before your test, you may be asked to stop certain medications.
• Remove all metallic items including jewellery, hair clips, eyeglasses, dentures, metal underwire bras, and hearing aids.
• Inform your doctor if you have had any past allergic reaction to the contrast medium or any recent or pre-existing illnesses, or if you are taking any medications.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or suspect that you might be pregnant.
• You may have to do a blood creatinine and urea test to evaluate kidney function and ensure the contrast can be eliminated safely, prior to the CECT scan.
What to expect during the CECT abdomen scan?
- You may have to wear a hospital gown.
- You will be given a contrast medium or dye before the scan. The contrast can be administered intravenously or orally. If oral contrast is administered, it may be given 15 to 30 minutes prior to the scan, and if intravenous contrast is used, it will be administered when you lie down on the scanner table.
- You will be most likely instructed to lie down on the back on the scanner table that slides through the CT scanner’s centre.
- When you enter the scanner, it rotates in a circular pattern around you, and the X-rays will pass into your body for brief periods of time. It is normal to hear clicking sounds.
- The scanner will detect the absorbed X-rays by your body tissues and send them to the computer. The computer will process the data into images, which the radiologist will interpret.
- It is important that you stay still throughout the procedure. At various points during the procedure, you may be instructed to hold your breath.
- You may experience some adverse effects when the contrast medium is injected. Some of these side effects include a metallic taste in your mouth, flushing, a brief headache, nausea, or vomiting. These effects typically last only a few seconds.
- If you experience any difficulty breathing, numbness, sweating, or heart palpitations, please notify the technician.
- A CECT whole abdomen scan normally takes 15–30 minutes.
What are the risks associated with the CECT abdomen scanning?
Although the risk is minimal compared to the benefits of the procedure, following are the potential risks:
- The scan uses ionising radiation, which may raise the likelihood of radiation-induced cancer.
- It requires contrast medium, which poses a risk of renal impairment and a risk of anaphylactic reaction.
FAQs:
What is the full form of CECT in medical terms?
The full form of CECT in medical terms is Contrast-Enhanced Computerized Tomography. It is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and a contrast dye to create detailed images of different parts of the human body.
What is a CECT abdomen scan, and why is it performed?
A CECT abdomen scan is an imaging technique using X-rays and contrast dye to get detailed images of the abdominal organs and tissue. The test scans for and assesses tumors in the stomach, liver, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys.
If you have concerns about pain in the abdomen, suspected cancer, infection or inflammation, etc., you may be recommended a CECT scan.
What is the procedure for a CECT whole abdomen scan?
First, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown. Next, you may be given a contrast dye either intranasally or orally. If given orally, it will be administered about 30 minutes prior to the scan; if given intranasally, then it would be administered when you lie down. You may taste a metallic taste in your mouth, experience nausea, or vomit after the dye is administered. This is normal. The scanner works by moving around the patient in a circular motion. You may hear clicking sounds.
You may be asked to hold your breath at random times during the procedure. You must remember to stay still. If you experience shortness of breath, heart palpitations, sweating, etc., it is best to notify the technician. The scan lasts about 30 minutes.
How much does a CECT abdomen test cost in India?
The price for a CECT abdomen The cost of a CECT abdomen test in India differs according to the state and the healthcare institution. The typical price range for a CECT abdomen test, however, is from INR 5250 to INR 10500.
What is a CECT chest scan, and when is it recommended?
A CECT chest scan uses X-rays to identify and assess abnormalities in the chest through detailed images. The test scans the heart, lungs, blood vessels, and bones. A contrast dye is inserted into the veins for a clearer image of various blockages or abnormalities.
What is the cost of a CECT chest scan in India?
CECT chest scan costs typically range from INR 2000 to INR 5000. The price would also depend on which state you are in and which hospital you are visiting.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with CECT scans?
The risk associated with CECT scans is minimal compared to the benefits. However, as with many medical procedures, there is a potential risk margin. The scan uses ionising radiation. It may raise the likelihood of radiation-induced cancer. The contrast dye may impair renal function or raise the likelihood of an anaphylactic reaction. It is best to establish open communication with your doctor about the potential risks and side effects.
How should I prepare for a CECT abdomen or chest scan?
You might be asked to fast for 4 to 6 hours prior to the scan. If you are taking any medications that may interfere with the test, you may have to stop them temporarily. You will be asked to remove all metallic items like jewellery, hair clips, eyeglasses, dentures, metal underwired bras, and hearing aids. If you have a history of allergic reactions to the contrast dye, it is best to inform the technician and doctor right away. Disclose any previous or pre-existing illnesses. If pregnant, please inform your doctor. You may be asked to undergo a blood creatinine and urea test prior to the scan.
How long does a CECT scan take, and when will I get the results?
A CECT scan typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. The results may be available within 1 or 2 days.
What is the difference between a plain CT scan and a CECT scan?
The main difference between the two scans is the contrast dye. A plain CT scan may not use contrast dye, while a CECT scan will use contrast dye.
