CT scan with and without contrast: peculiarities of procedures

CT scan: what does it show?

CT scan is a test that is performed by a doctor's referral and if indicated. Before conducting the examination, the doctor takes anamnesis, conducts an examination and prescribes the necessary area for computed tomography. Main indications for diagnostics:

• traumatic brain injuries;

• diseases of the cardiovascular system;

• injuries and degenerative-dystrophic changes of the spinal column;

• inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, accompanied by pain, nausea, and disorders;

• diseases of the joints;

• pathologies of the respiratory system;

• diseases of the urinary tract;

• lesions of the skull bones;

• intestinal obstruction.

CT scanners are prescribed to detect tumors of any localization, assess the size and extent of the pathological process and determine the presence of metastases in organs and lymph nodes. 

What is CT scan with contrast?

Computed tomography with contrast provides more information about the examined organ or system. For the examination, a contrast agent is used, which is injected into the body during the scan to increase information content. This type of CT scan is often prescribed by specialists in case of suspected cancer. The use of contrast helps a specialist to better distinguish healthy tissues from unhealthy ones, and to clearly track blood vessels and formations. The technique allows detecting pathologies at early stages, seeing the exact localization of tumors, and measuring their size. 

Difference between CT scan with and without contrast

CT with contrast is an examination process that differs in its peculiarities. Before the procedure, the patient must take a blood test for creatinine in advance. The examination lasts longer than without contrast and takes place in 2 stages:

1. Scanning without contrast agent and its injection.      

2. Scanning with contrast.   

Catheters and CT injectors are used are used to inject the contrast agents. Contrast is an iodine-containing drug that has X-ray absorption properties. Due to this, «invisible» parts of the body become «visible». 

Administration of contrast agent

Contrast agent is administered in a medical facility by intravenous, oral and rectal routes. The method depends on the structures to be examined. In case of gastrointestinal tract examination, contrast agent is administered orally or rectally, and in case of vascular system examination — intravenously.

The contrast agent poses practically no danger to human life and health. In rare cases, side effects may occur if the patient has allergic reactions. After computed tomography, it is recommended to drink plenty of water during the day to ensure faster excretion. 

Advantages of CT scan with contrast

With the help of the CT scanner a doctor confirms or refutes the suspicion of a disease, assesses its stage, monitors its possible development, plans therapy, and monitors its effectiveness. Computed tomography with contrast agent has a number of advantages:

• excellent visualization of bone structures;

• improved soft tissue imaging;

• speed compared to other diagnostic methods;

• high detail of small anatomical structures.

Computed tomography is used during angiography. CT with contrast helps to conduct angiographic examinations, which are indispensable in studying the condition of blood vessels.

Where to buy high-quality computed tomography equipment

What is CT scan? This is a highly informative method used for a wide range of pathologies of blood vessels, internal organs, and soft tissues. To conduct examinations, it is necessary to buy CT scanners for a medical institution. Bimedis marketplace offers a wide range of medical equipment at reasonable prices. The main advantages of the marketplace are reliable sellers, devices from leading manufacturers, a user-friendly interface, search engine and international recognition. You may place an order in just a few simple steps. For professional advice and answers to questions, it is important to contact the managers.