It requires placement of an intravenous line. It also exposes a child to a significant amount of radiation. It is rarely the first exam to obtain. An ultrasound is, therefore, a better initial exam in a child with an abdominal mass. Although significant renal function is required to concentrate and excrete the contrast material, CAT scans are relatively sensitive in detecting and comparing renal function between two kidneys.
Most young children require sedation to undergo a CAT scan.
CAT scans are relatively expensive. A CAT scan is very useful in evaluating solid abdominal masses in children. A child suspected of having a genitourinary tumor may benefit from a CAT scan.