A CAT scan is actually just an acronysm of the actual name of the test. CAT used to stand for Computerized Axial Tomography ( which is a fancy way of saying you use computers to to form images or slices of the anatomy) (the Axial stands for the plane of the image in relationship to the body) Think of slicing the body from end to end like a loaf of bread. This has been shortened over the years to just CT scan or Computerized Tomography. ( the CT scanner now takes different angles of imaging and is no longer just axial imaging). Contrast is something put into the body thru injection, by swallowing, or both to give the pictures a "contrast" to what it normaly looks like, and gives us a way of pulling out certain aspects of the image to see some things better. So what it comes down to is a CT scan is still the same either way but your doctor may order it with contrast, without contrast, or both depending on what he needs to see.
Without. I had a cat scan this morning for that very reason and no contrast was needed.
They are just as they say. An abdominal cat scan is just of that area and a pelvic cat scan is just of that area. Usually if an abdominal cat scan is ordered a pelvis is included so as to cover all things in both areas but if a pelvic cat scan is ordered it usually does not include the abdomen.
A CT scan with contrast involves the use of a contrast agent, typically an iodine-based dye, injected into a vein or taken orally to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels in the images. This helps to provide clearer and more detailed images, making it easier to identify abnormalities. In contrast, a CT scan without contrast captures images without any enhancement, which may be sufficient for certain conditions but might miss subtle issues that the contrast could reveal. The choice between the two depends on the specific medical question being addressed.
A CT scan and a CAT scan refer to the same imaging technique; "CAT" stands for "Computed Axial Tomography." The difference in preparation often arises from the specific area being scanned or the type of contrast material used. For certain CT scans, especially those involving the abdomen or pelvis, patients may need to fast or undergo specific prep to enhance image clarity, whereas other scans might not require such preparations. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for the specific scan you are undergoing.
A CT Scan can image an aneurysm without a contrast injection even though it does better with a contrast agent. An MRI will require an contrast agent or an MRI/MRA.
The CPT code for a CT scan of the head or brain without contrast is 70450. This code specifically represents a computed tomography (CT) scan of the head or brain, performed without the administration of contrast material.
Contrast media
Whether you need an IV for a CT scan depends on the type of scan being performed. If the scan involves the use of contrast material to enhance the images, an IV is typically required to administer the contrast. However, for non-contrast CT scans, an IV is not necessary. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding preparation for the procedure.
Acetylcysteine may be given before a CT scan to reduce the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy, a potential complication from the contrast dye used during the scan. Acetylcysteine can help protect the kidneys by promoting the excretion of the contrast dye and reducing kidney damage.
uuuh lets seee........ a cat scan!
allan cormack
cat scan