Abdominal computed tomography - what does it show, and when should it be performed?

Abdominal computed tomography is a fast, non-invasive, painless examination used in the diagnosis of various diseases of the abdomen. It allows for the detection, confirmation, or exclusion of a pathological process involving the intestines or other abdominal organs (sometimes a scan of the pelvis is also performed to visualize the entire alimentary tract).

Computed tomography - what is it?

Computed tomography is one of the available imaging tests that allow you to look deep into the patient's body. This examination was developed from the technique of x-rays and, like them, it uses the same radiation. The main difference lies in the design of the device, which takes numerous photos during the examination, showing the patient's body from many sides, at many angles. To make this possible, both the radiation source and the detector move around the patient. The images created in this way are then sent to a computer with the appropriate software. The results of the examination are analyzed by a radiologist who performs their radiological description containing detailed information on the observed changes.

How is the abdominal tomography done?

During a CT scan of the abdomen, the patient lies down on a special table. The table is then slowly moved into the gantry (round tube) where the radiation source and its detector are located. It should be emphasized at this point that the entire process takes place under the control of the medical team that watches over the patient. Moreover, during the entire CT scan, the patient has verbal contact with the supervising technician and can raise any concerns if necessary. Modern CT scanners are equipped with an intercom, i.e., a device that allows for efficient communication.

The test itself is painless, but you may experience discomfort after administration of intravenous contrast. Computed tomography can also be problematic for people suffering from claustrophobia. Therefore, before the examination, it is worth communicating your concerns to the examining technician or nurse. If needed, appropriate medication can be administered to help prepare for the test.

Computed tomography of the abdominal cavity - what it shows?

Computed tomography of the abdominal cavity allows for the evaluation of the parenchymal organs (liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys). It can often help diagnose benign and malignant neoplasms. In case of advanced disease, it may help find the primary site (area where cancer cells initially developed). It also allows for the examination of the extent of inflammatory and neoplastic infiltrates within the walls of the stomach, gallbladder, small and large intestine, adrenal glands and the assessment of possible recurrence of the resected tumor.

Abdominal computed tomography - when is it performed?

The main indications include, among others, the following diseases:

• Neoplastic changes;
• Inflammatory changes (e.g., cholecystitis);
• Gastrointestinal obstruction;
• Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract;
• Abdominal injuries.

Preparation for abdominal tomography - what should it look like?

In almost every case (except for injuries), proper preparation is necessary. If the intestines are examined, an oral contrast agent can be given. Intestines filled with this substance are easier to identify, boundaries of individual structures become more distinct, and thus it becomes possible to more accurately assess changes in the gut and surrounding organs. Intravenous contrast can also be administered - this helps identify pathological changes in other organs like the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys. Fasting is required before an abdominal CT scan. The last meal should be consumed at least 6 hours before the examination itself.

Read more: Computed tomography - how to prepare?

Abdominal computer tomography - result

Abdominal computed tomography is interpreted by a radiologist - a physician specialized in the analysis and interpretation of radiological examinations. The result of their work is a radiological report in the form of a document, which is provided by a medical facility. Sometimes it may be necessary to perform further imaging tests. This includes follow-up examinations or examinations with other imaging modalities (like MRI or PET-CT). It is worth emphasizing here that control tests are the best way to verify the effectiveness of the treatment applied.