CT scan and CT enterography are two similar imaging tests that are quite different from each other. Both are typically used to examine the organs of the abdominal cavity, but they have different approaches to imaging. The main difference is that the CT enterography typically produces image series that are taken over a period of time to show the movement of contrast material through the GI tract, while CT scans mainly capture still shots.
It’s significant to know the difference between these two procedures when planning medical tests and treatments. CT enterography is more useful than CT scans in diagnosing various GI tract disorders like Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD). This test utilizes contrast material and CT scans to create detailed images of the stomach, intestines, and other organs. On the other hand, CT scans can produce images of the organs of the abdominal cavity and aids in the diagnosis of a multitude of conditions such as tumors, kidney stones, and infections.
CT enterography is usually used when traditional X-rays aren’t detailed enough and colonoscopy can’t give a complete picture of the organs’ condition. In contrast, CT scan is recommended when there’s suspicion of gastrointestinal perforation, bleeding, or abdominal injuries. Ultimately, these imaging tests serve as essential tools for doctors to diagnose and pinpoint illnesses. Therefore, it’s important that patients understand and know the difference between CT scans and CT enterography to have a better idea of the diagnostic imaging test they may likely undergo.
What is a CT scan?
A CT scan, also known as Computed Tomography, is a diagnostic test that uses X-ray technology to create detailed images of the inside of your body. During a CT scan, a rotating X-ray machine takes multiple images of different angles of the body which are then compiled by the computer to create highly detailed and accurate 3D images of the internal organs and tissues. These images provide doctors with valuable information to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions.
- CT scans are non-invasive and painless procedure. It involves lying on a table that slides into a circular opening in the CT scanner.
- The scan only takes a few minutes to complete and is relatively low risk. Patients may be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds during the scan – this helps to ensure that the images are as clear as possible.
- There are various types of CT scans available, each designed to examine different parts of the body. For example, CT scans of the head are commonly used to detect brain tumors while abdominal CT scans can help diagnose digestive tract issues.
What is CT enterography?
CT enterography is a medical imaging procedure that uses computed tomography (CT) to create detailed images of the small bowel. The small bowel is the longest segment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, located between the stomach and the colon. A CT enterography scan provides information about the structure and function of the small bowel, including any abnormalities or diseases affecting it.
- Unlike a standard CT scan, CT enterography requires the patient to ingest a specialized contrast material before the scan. This solution contains a laxative agent that helps to clear out any residual fecal material, enabling the scan to capture clearer and more detailed images of the small bowel.
- CT enterography is often used to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions that affect the small bowel, including Crohn’s disease, tumors, infections, and obstructions. It is also used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, and medications.
- CT enterography is a safe and effective procedure that typically does not require sedation or anesthesia. However, it does expose the patient to a small amount of ionizing radiation.
CT enterography is performed by a radiologic technologist and is interpreted by a radiologist. The procedure typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes to complete, and the patient can typically resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
Overall, CT enterography is a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing the health and function of the small bowel, providing detailed images that can help identify and treat a range of GI tract conditions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| -Can help diagnose a variety of small bowel conditions | -Exposes patient to ionizing radiation |
| -Non-invasive and does not require sedation | -Requires ingestion of a specialized contrast material |
| -Provides detailed images of the small bowel | -May not be suitable for patients with renal insufficiency or allergies to contrast material |
While CT enterography has its benefits and limitations, it remains an important tool for diagnosing and treating small bowel conditions and ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of CT scan
Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a non-invasive imaging test that can help doctors diagnose various medical conditions. The procedure uses x-rays and a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. CT scans are used for a wide range of purposes, including:
- Diagnosing bone and muscle disorders, such as fractures and tumors.
- Identifying internal injuries and bleeding in trauma patients.
- Detecting and monitoring cancers, including lung, liver, and pancreatic cancer.
- Assessing the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
- Detecting and diagnosing heart disease, including coronary artery disease and heart attacks.
- Diagnosing and monitoring diseases of the organs, such as liver and kidney disease.
- Diagnosing neurological conditions, such as stroke and brain tumors.
CT scans are fast and painless, making them popular among doctors and patients alike. In most cases, patients can expect to receive their results within minutes to hours after the scan.
Purpose of CT Enterography
CT enterography is a diagnostic procedure that allows physicians to examine the small intestine in detail. The purpose of CT enterography is to identify any abnormalities or inflammation that may be present in the small bowel, including Crohn’s disease, tumors, and obstructions.
- While traditional CT scans can provide a general view of the entire abdomen, CT enterography is designed to specifically image the small intestine, resulting in higher resolution images and a more accurate diagnosis.
- CT enterography is a non-invasive procedure that uses radiation to create detailed images of the small bowel. The patient drinks a liquid that contains contrast material, which helps the small intestine show up on the CT images.
- CT enterography is a useful tool for evaluating patients with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. It can also be used to monitor patients with established small bowel disease.
During the procedure, the patient lies on a table that moves through a doughnut-shaped machine called a CT scanner. The scanner takes a series of images of the small intestine from multiple angles, and then a computer combines the images to create a detailed picture. The procedure takes about 30 minutes to complete, and the patient can immediately return to normal activities afterwards.
Overall, CT enterography is a valuable diagnostic tool that allows physicians to examine the small intestine in detail and detect any abnormalities or inflammation that may be present.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| – Non-invasive | – Exposure to radiation |
| – High-resolution images of small intestine | – Requires drinking contrast material |
| – Useful for diagnosing small bowel disease | – May miss certain conditions |
As with any medical procedure, there are both advantages and disadvantages to CT enterography. While it is a non-invasive way to examine the small intestine in detail, it does expose patients to radiation. While it is useful for diagnosing small bowel disease, it may miss certain conditions and requires the patient to drink contrast material. Your physician will weigh the pros and cons of CT enterography before recommending the procedure.
Preparation for CT Scan
Before undergoing a CT scan or a CT enterography, there are a few steps that you need to follow to ensure the accuracy of the test. Here are the general preparations required before undergoing a CT scan:
- Fasting: Depending on the area being examined, you may be asked to fast for several hours, usually six hours before the CT scan. This means that you should not eat or drink anything except water. This is done to provide better visibility of the organs being examined and to avoid interference with the contrast dye used during the scan. Make sure you follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to avoid any delays or rescheduling of the test.
- Medications: Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, especially those that contain metformin, as this medication may interfere with the CT scan results. You may need to stop taking the medication temporarily or adjust the dose before the test. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to manage your medications.
- Contrast Dye: Depending on the area being examined, your doctor may require you to have a contrast dye administered before the CT scan. The contrast dye is injected into your bloodstream through an IV, and it helps highlight the target area for better visibility. Inform your doctor if you have any allergies or any medical conditions related to kidney function, as some patients may experience side effects from the contrast dye, especially if they have kidney problems.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes for the CT scan. You may also be asked to wear a hospital gown during the scan.
- Jewelry: Jewelry and other accessories should be removed before the test, as they may interfere with the results.
Preparation for CT Enterography
Before undergoing a CT enterography, patients will need to prepare adequately to ensure accurate and clear images are obtained from the examination. Here are a few critical preparation steps that patients should follow:
- Fast: It is recommended to fast for four to six hours before the CT enterography to eliminate any food or fluids that could interfere with the procedure and cause inaccurate results.
- Empty bowels: Patients may need to take a laxative, such as magnesium citrate, the day before the test to clear out their bowels fully.
- Avoid certain foods and drinks: Patients should avoid high-fiber foods, dairy, and carbonated beverages for at least two days before the exam to help ensure a clear image of the intestines.
In addition to these preparation steps, patients should also inform their doctor of all current medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and any vitamins or dietary supplements they are taking. This information will help the doctor determine whether adjustments need to be made to the patient’s medicine routine before the test.
It is essential for patients to follow all preparedness steps outlined by their doctor or radiology technician to ensure the accuracy of the CT enterography results. Failure to follow instructions could result in the need for additional testing or the generation of inaccurate data.
Risks associated with CT scan and CT enterography
Computed Tomography (CT) scan and CT Enterography are both powerful imaging tools that use X-ray technology to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with these diagnostic tests. Here are some of the potential risks to consider:
- Radiation Exposure: CT scans and CT enterography involve exposure to ionizing radiation, which can damage cells and increase the risk of cancer. The amount of radiation exposure depends on the type of test, the body area being scanned, and the individual’s age and health. The risk of developing radiation-induced cancer is generally low, but it increases with higher doses of radiation and repeated exposure. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of these tests with your doctor.
- Allergic Reaction: Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the contrast dye that is sometimes used in CT enterography to better visualize the intestines. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Patients should inform their doctor of any previous allergic reactions before undergoing a CT enterography.
- Kidney Damage: The contrast dye used in CT enterography may cause kidney damage in people with pre-existing kidney problems. Patients with kidney disease or high blood pressure should discuss the risks of CT enterography with their doctor.
- Pregnancy: CT scans and CT enterography are generally not recommended for pregnant women, as the X-rays may pose a risk to the developing fetus. Women who are pregnant or may be pregnant should inform their doctor before undergoing a CT scan.
- Intestinal Perforation: There is a small risk of intestinal perforation (tear or hole) in some people undergoing a CT enterography. This risk is higher in people with pre-existing bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or diverticulitis, or in those who have had abdominal surgery. Patients should inform their doctor of any history of bowel disease or abdominal surgery before undergoing a CT enterography.
- Inaccurate or Incomplete Diagnosis: CT scans and CT enterography may produce inaccurate or incomplete results due to a variety of factors, including patient movement during the scan, improper positioning, or technical errors. It is important to discuss the accuracy and limitations of these tests with your doctor.
- False Positives: CT scans and CT enterography may produce false positive results, meaning that a suspicious finding turns out to be benign upon further testing. False positive results may lead to unnecessary follow-up tests, anxiety, and medical expenses.
Conclusion
While CT scans and CT enterography are valuable diagnostic tools for a variety of medical conditions, they come with potential risks. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of these tests with your doctor, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits, and determine if a CT scan or CT enterography is the best course of action for your individual case.
| Risk | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Radiation Exposure | Possible increased risk of cancer |
| Allergic Reaction | Hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing |
| Kidney Damage | Possible damage in patients with pre-existing kidney disease or high blood pressure |
| Pregnancy | Possible harm to developing fetus |
| Intestinal Perforation | Possible tear or hole in intestines in people with pre-existing bowel disease or abdominal surgery |
| Inaccurate or Incomplete Diagnosis | Possible misdiagnosis due to technical errors or other factors |
| False Positives | Possible unnecessary follow-up tests, anxiety, and medical expenses |
Sources:
- American College of Radiology. (n.d.). Computed Tomography (CT) – Abdomen and/or Pelvis. RadiologyInfo.org. Retrieved February 3, 2021, from https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/ct-abdomen.
- American College of Radiology. (n.d.). Computed Tomography (CT) – Enterography. RadiologyInfo.org. Retrieved February 3, 2021, from https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/ct-enterography.
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2010, May). Risks of CT scans: A wake-up call for doctors — and patients. Harvard Health Blog. Retrieved February 3, 2021, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/risks-of-ct-scans-a-wake-up-call-for-doctorsand-patients-20100517428.
What is the difference between a CT scan and a CT enterography?
Q: What is a CT scan?
A: A CT scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses X-rays to produce detailed images of the inside of the body.
Q: What is a CT enterography?
A: CT enterography is a special type of CT scan that focuses on the small intestine by using a contrast dye to highlight that area of the gastrointestinal tract.
Q: How are they different?
A: While both CT scans and CT enterographies involve the use of X-rays to produce images, a CT enterography uses a specific type of contrast dye and imaging technique to focus solely on the small intestine.
Q: When is a CT enterography necessary over a regular CT scan?
A: A CT enterography may be necessary if a patient is experiencing certain gastrointestinal symptoms, such as unexplained abdominal pain or diarrhea, or if a regular CT scan did not provide enough insight into the small intestine.
Q: Is there any difference in preparation?
A: Yes, there is a difference in preparation for a CT enterography as it requires fasting for several hours prior to the exam and the consumption of a special contrast dye.
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We hope this article helped you understand the difference between a CT scan and a CT enterography. If you have any further questions, please consult with your healthcare provider. Don’t forget to visit us again for more healthcare insights!