Computed Tomography Abdomen

Computed tomography (CT) is an advanced imaging system that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce comprehensive images of your abdomen. CT scans give a much more detailed picture than regular X-rays and can identify many conditions that may escape detection on other imaging tests.

Your health care practitioner may order an abdomen CT scan to examine one of the following (or, for a more comprehensive exam, a combined abdomen/pelvis CT):

  • the small or large bowel 
  • the liver, pancreas, or spleen 
  • a cause of pain or swelling
  • the kidneys or bladder
  • lymph nodes or blood vessels

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

  • Don’t eat or drink for two hours prior to your exam.
  • Please arrive one-and-a-half hours prior to your appointment.
  • Take all prescribed medications as directed.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

  • You may be asked to change into scrubs.
  • You will be asked to drink roughly one glass of Telebrix (an oral contrast solution that helps enhance your images) every 20 minutes over the next 90 minutes.
  • After 90 minutes you will be taken to the CT scanner and asked to lie on your back on the bed, which will then be adjusted for correct placement.
  • If needed, your technologist will then set up an intravenous (IV) line for the contrast solution. Please note that IV contrast is an additional cost of $125.
  • Your technologist will leave the room to begin your exam, but you will be in direct communication throughout your procedure.
  • Your technologist will take several initial scans, then administer the contrast solution through your IV to enhance your remaining images.
  • On a few occasions, you may be asked to hold your breath (for 10-15 seconds) to help obtain specific images.
  • At the end of your exam, your technologist will help you off the bed and guide you back to your change room. You are then free to leave.

POST-EXAM INSTRUCTIONS

It is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to “flush out” the contrast solution. Most of the solution is out of your system within the six hours following your exam, and will be completely eliminated within 24 hours.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

In Calgary, CT exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. Prices are per body area. If multiple body areas are scheduled within the same appointment, discounts apply. For example, the abdomen is one body area, while the spine is divided into three body areas. We also offer Health Assessment packages.

We offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the total CT exam.

Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private CT that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.

Please note that if contrast is needed, it’s an additional cost of $125.

For Your Appointment

Please ensure that you bring your requisition with to your appointment.

Questions?

Duration

Exam: 25 minutes
Appt: 2 hours

Location

Mayfair Place

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need a doctor's referral?

Yes, all diagnostic and preventative screening CT exams (including those part of Mayfair's Health Assessment packages) require a referral from your health care provider. You can download a referral form on our website.

Is a preventative screening CT scan right for me?

Most physicians endorse routine screening beginning at age 50. For patients with one or more risk factors: a family history of colon cancer or heart disease; a history of diabetes; high cholesterol or high blood pressure; an inactive lifestyle; weight problems; or concerns about abdominal disease, pelvic disease or osteoporosis, screening should begin earlier (usually at age 40).

Are there size or weight restrictions?

Mayfair's wide-bore CT scanners offer a more comfortable imaging experience, especially for larger patients or those who are prone to anxiety in tight spaces. Feet first scanning capacity, flexible design configurations, and padding provide optimal patient comfort. If you're nervous about sizing, measure your body at the widest point (usually across your abdomen or from shoulder to shoulder) and if the measurement is less than 70 centimetres, you should fit. If you are claustrophobic, you can come in for a fitting at NO charge to make sure you will be comfortable during the exam. Patients whose weight exceeds 226 kilograms (500 lbs) may be unable to have a CT scan.

What is contrast and why might it be required?

A contrast solution is administered to enhance the images of your tissues and organs. If required, it can be administered intravenously when you arrive for your scan, or you may be instructed to take it orally several hours before your scan. If your test involves a contrast solution, you may need to fast for a few hours before your exam. Please note that IV contrast is an additional cost of $125.

Are there any risks?

The exposure to radiation from a CT scan is higher than that of standard X-rays, but the associated risk is still small. For example, the radiation exposure from one low-dose CT scan of the abdomen is similar to the exposure from the earth's natural background radiation over six months. In most cases, the benefits of a CT, such as the early detection of a serious illness, outweigh the small increased risk from radiation exposure. If your CT exam requires intravenous contrast, there is a small risk of allergic reaction to the contrast agent. Diabetes, asthma, heart disease, kidney problems, or thyroid conditions also increase your risk of a reaction to contrast.