Abdominal, pelvic and thoracic computed tomography
This exam is recommended for many cases and is used to detect, among others, the following anomalies:
- Traumatic damage to your liver, spleen, kidneys and pancreas (e.g. abscess, primary or secondary tumour) and organs of the pelvic area
- Thickening of your small and large intestinal wall, which can indicate inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis)
- Blood vessel damage (e.g. abdominal aortic aneurysm and dissection, blood clotting in the superior mesenteric artery)
Preparing for the Examination (for adults)
To properly prepare yourself for the examination, we will ask you to:
- to change into a hospital gown and remove your jewellery and other metal objects, which can interfere with image quality
- Only eat light meals on the day of the exam, such as toast, cereal or soup, if your healthcare professional has prescribed a CT scan that requires a contrast agentr.
Possible Side Effects
Our radiologists and technologists will see to your wellbeing throughout the examination and will be available to help or answer any questions you may have.
Depending on the test prescribed by your health professional, it may be required to inject a contrast agent. We will go through a list of contrast agents with you when you book your appointment. If you think you may be allergic, please let us know.
It is also important to note that about 5% of people have a reaction to the contrast agent. If this were the case, our radiology technicians will help attenuate any symptoms. These may include the following:
- Nausea
- Respiratory problems
- Metallic or bitter taste in the mouth
- Hot flashes
- Facial swelling and itching
- In rare cases, the contrast agent may cause a serious allergic reaction.
Although the amount of radiation emitted during a CT scan is higher than in an X-ray, it emits a low-level ionizing radiation, which allows the use of levels considered safe for the procedure.
A medical prescription is required to perform this examination.
Please note that CT-Scan examinations are not covered by the Régie de l’Assurance Maladie du Québec (RAMQ). However, most group insurance plans cover the costs.
If your health care professional has requested this test or you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 1 833 590-2715.