1 Indications for CT

There are a number of indications for the passage of this procedure:

• abscesses of the abdominal space and abdominal cavity;
• malignant and benign neoplasms - tumors and cysts;
• lesions of the abdominal knots;
• echinococcosis;
• pathology of blood vessels;
• metastases;
• stones;
• diagnosis of mechanical jaundice;
• suspected aneurysm;
• abdominal trauma;
• of jaundice;
• abnormalities of organ development;
• a sharp weight loss;
• for the detection of foreign bodies in the peritoneum;
• preparation for operations;
• treatment control;
• contraindications for MRI.

Computer tomography of the abdominal cavity allows the doctor to carefully study the condition of not only the above organs, but also entire systems, vessels and structures that are unseen in ordinary x-rays. Computed tomography is performed not only in the course of diagnosis of diseases, but also in emergency cases, when the account goes for a minute. It is the precise location of the localization of trauma or the rupture of internal organs that allows doctors to save the life of the patient. With infectious diseases, a computer tomograph allows you to determine the degree of damage to internal organs and prevent further spread of infection to healthy tissues.

Diagnostic procedure is performed only by qualified doctors with the appropriate education and skills in working with high-tech equipment. The study is carried out with special equipment - a computer tomograph, it includes a scanner that displays the organs under study on the monitor. A special calculation program is included in the system, which is necessary for reconstructing a three-dimensional image according to a given algorithm, and also a program for recording and reproducing an image obtained from the scanner.

2 How to prepare for the

Survey Tomography of the abdominal cavity is a very serious procedure that requires special preparation. After eating, the walls of the intestine and stomach can create disturbances on the image( so-called artifacts), and the picture will lose its clarity. That is why the preparation for CT imply the passage of the procedure on an empty stomach. Foreign gases also interfere with the procedure.2 days before passage of CT of the abdominal cavity with contrast, you can not use the following products:

• apples;
• cabbage;
• beans;
• baking;
• dairy products;
• black bread;
• carbonated drinks and kvass.

Before passage of CT of the abdominal organs in the evening on the eve of the procedure and in the morning, it is required to wash the intestine, that is, to make an enema. How to properly do an enema before the procedure, you will be told in detail by a doctor from the computer tomography room. If you listen to all the doctor's instructions, you will be able to prepare well for the study, the diagnosis will be accurate, and the treatment as effective as possible. Yes, and the preparation itself for computed tomography is not too complicated, so it is better not to neglect the recommendations.

3 Why a contrast agent

is used To visualize a picture, sometimes a special contrast agent is used, it is an iodine-based drug. This drug is administered to a patient using a catheter. Contrast substance passes through blood vessels and colors them in a different color, which is clearly visible in the picture of the tomograph.

There is also an oral method of contrasting, when the pigment is given to the patient in the form of a tablet. It is with the contrast substance that CT shows the doctors the foci of inflammation and other disruptions in the work of internal organs. It is important to note that contrast material has a unique property to accumulate in neoplasms of internal organs. This allows not only to see the tumor accurately, but also to study it in detail before biopsy.

The amount of contrast directly depends on the weight of the patient, so it is selected individually. Contrasting achieves the most accurate result of checking the condition of internal organs and vessels. The substance is completely safe, does not give any consequences and allergic reactions. It is completely eliminated from the body throughout the day.

4 Advantages of the

study Computed tomography of the abdominal cavity with contrasting has many advantages in comparison with other methods of studying the human body. First of all, she analyzes the slightest changes in the work of internal organs and systems. CT accurately reflects the size of the lesions, their location, the degree of organ damage, the boundaries of metastasis, and a number of other important parameters. Positive aspects of diagnostics:

• high quality image;
• reveals changes in organs that are not visible in other methods of investigation;
• high scanning speed;
• obtaining accurate cuts with a thickness of 0.5 mm;
• three-dimensional images;
• has no side effects;
• low beam load.

In contrast to MRI, computed tomography allows you to pass examinations even to people with implanted valves, prostheses, metal pins and plates.

5 How the procedure passes

Before the procedure, the patient must remove all metal objects on the body - piercing, bra with metal fasteners, glasses, hair clips and hair bands. During the procedure the patient should be in a supine position, sometimes it is required that the person holds his breath for a few seconds.

It is very important to remain immobile during the diagnosis. After passing the CT scan, the patient can immediately return to the usual cases. The entire process is recorded on a CD or film, which is handed to the patient. With these electronic data a person turns to his doctor, who, in turn, analyzes them and gives a conclusion. Reviews of patients who underwent CT scan, speak about complete painlessness and effectiveness of the procedure.

6 Contraindications

CT is contraindicated for passage only to pregnant and lactating women. For this category, there are alternative diagnostic techniques, for example, MRI.For all other people, computed tomography is allowed. But you need to take into account that people who are intolerant of iodine and diabetes mellitus can not pass tomography with contrast, and the usual version of the procedure is not contraindicated.

For children, computer diagnostics are only used if ultrasound can not accurately display the problem. CT is done for children from 7 years. Up to this age, it is possible to carry out a tomography scan only if the children do not cry and can lie quietly, without moving for half an hour. Children's computerized tomography is performed according to a clear protocol and implies a significantly reduced amount of radiation. In order for the child not to be tense and not afraid of what is happening, the presence of one of the parents in special protection is allowed.

The duration of the procedure is usually 1 hour in normal form and 1.5 hours with contrast. The contrast method takes a little longer and, accordingly, costs a little more. You can get computer diagnostics in most public hospitals and a number of private clinics.