The Abdominal CT Scan, also known as an Abdominal CT Scan, is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that produces detailed images of your abdominal organs. The process starts by having you lie on a table that slides into the CT scanner, a large donut-shaped machine. As the table moves slowly through the scanner, the machine takes a series of X-ray images from different angles.
Throughout the procedure, which typically takes about 30 minutes, you'll be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds to prevent any movement that could blur the images. The images taken are then sent to a computer where they are combined to create cross-sectional images or 'slices' of the body. This provides your doctor with much more detailed information than standard X-rays. This detailed view aids in diagnosing diseases, monitoring the progression of chronic illnesses, and planning for certain types of surgery.
Post-scan, you can usually resume your everyday activities. The radiologist will analyze the images and send a report to your doctor, who will discuss the results with you at a follow-up appointment. It's important to remember that while the Abdominal CT Scan is a highly effective tool, it does expose you to more radiation than regular X-rays. Therefore, it's generally not recommended for pregnant women or individuals who have had multiple CT scans in the past.