CT Scan (Computed Tomography), with Contrast

A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan in which an iodine-based dye is given through a vein to make blood vessels, organs and certain abnormalities show up more clearly. ST Medical offers contrast CT of the head and neck region and of the chest, abdomen, pelvis and limbs, individually or combined, with radiologist reporting. It is used when greater tissue and vascular detail is needed than a plain scan can provide.

A contrast-enhanced CT scan follows the same principle as a standard computed tomography study but adds an iodine-based contrast agent, usually injected into a vein in the arm, to increase the visibility of blood vessels, solid organs, inflammation and certain abnormalities. This extra detail is valuable when a clinician needs a clearer view of structures that look similar on a plain scan. At ST Medical Clinic contrast CT is available for the head, facial bones, neck and sinuses, and for the chest, spine, pelvis, limbs and bones, with combined studies such as abdomen-and-pelvis or chest-abdomen-pelvis offered for broader assessment. A radiologist reviews and reports the images. During the scan a small cannula is placed for the contrast injection, and you may feel a brief warm flush as the dye is given, which is normal. As with any CT the examination itself is fast, and you may be asked to hold your breath for parts of it. Because the study uses both ionising radiation and a contrast agent, the team will check your kidney function where appropriate and ask about previous reactions to contrast, allergies and pregnancy before proceeding; the radiology staff tailor the dose and protocol to your clinical question. Drinking plenty of water afterwards helps the body clear the contrast. A referral describing what is being investigated allows the team to choose the right region or combination of regions and the correct timing of the contrast, so the scan is as informative as possible.