A driver is not necessary. If your doctor also requests an evaluation of the lower abdomen, or pelvis, a full urinary bladder is also required. A CAT Scan, also known as CT Scan, uses a complex computerized x-ray scanner that takes multiple views of your abdominal organs as you lie on a flat table. A high speed computer analyses the information to create cross sectional images of parts of your body. CT is best suited for viewing the more solid digestive organs like liver, pancreas and kidney, and less suited for viewing the hollow air field intestinal tract.
Preparation is simple, however there are a few concerns.
First, since dehydration can increase the risk of side effects, it is important that you drink plenty of fluids up until four hours before the examination. During the last four hours, you should avoid all food and drink. Since the contrast material can worsen previously existing kidney disease, the radiologist usually requests proof of normal kidney function. This requires a blood test. To make the examination more accurate, you will be asked to drink an oral contrast solution before the scan.