CT Scan

A CT (Computed tomography) or CAT (Computed axial tomography) scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure. The machine uses thin x-ray beams that travel in a circle around the body (or body part) to take an array of images, from multiple directions and angles. The images are then sent to a computer and processed into detailed, cross sectional 2-D or 3-D pictures. Areas of dense tissue and bone appear white, soft tissue and organs appears grey, and air filled areas are black.

CT scans can help determine cancer staging, tumor type (liquid or solid), size, blood supply, and the possibility of removal with surgery. They can also be used to see if there are any additional masses or tumors or cancers and if the cancer has spread. Contrast material taken either intravenously or ingested can be used to help the organs be seen more clearly and is also absorbed by cancerous cells, making them appear white.

https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/ct-scan-for-cancer.html

What to Expect

You pick up the contrast drink, READI-CAT2, an oral 2% Barium Sulfate suspension, before your scan. It is shelf stable but tastes much better chilled. It can come in flavors including vanilla, chocolate, mocha, berry, and banana (eww, apparently this was the favorite?!? GAG!!!). I tried the mocha. It most definitely not mocha. It was more like drinking a coffee scented liquid chalk paste with an after-burp of imitation chocolate flavored syrup. Maybe try it with crushed ice for a delectable treat? No, seriously, drink it through a big straw and put the straw as far back as possible into your mouth to avoid as much tongue/taste as it goes down.

You aren’t supposed to eat or drink 4-6 hours before the scan, and for a morning appointment, nothing to eat after midnight. I was told to drink the first bottle before bed, and then the next one in the morning, an hour before the appointment. You are allowed to use the bathroom at least. Take advantage of it, because, well, read below.

Watch out for:

• Allergic reactions to contrast dye, Iodine, seafood
• Medication interactions- ask your provider
• Pacemaker, or chemo port?- let them know ahead of time
• Claustrophobia- not terrible because you are only going through a donut thingy, not completely enclosed
• Interesting tidbit, barium sulfate can make your poop white

At the scan they make you remove your clothes, jewelry, and any metal. This includes fitness watches you never bother to take off, and underwires… just sayin’. You don a gown, but can keep your underwear on if you don’t have any metal on it. No judgement here if you do.

For abdominal/pelvic CT you get additional contrast material through through an IV. The tech injects the contrast dye through a small cannula in your arm and warns you that you may get hot, taste metal, and all of a sudden feel like you wet your pants. You do, and it was a good thing that she told me and that I already went pee, so I knew I didn’t actually pee.

The tech leaves the room so they don’t get zapped with radiation and speaks to you over a speaker. The table moves you though the donut and it makes whizzing/buzzing sounds. The machine/or the tech tells you to hold your breath at certain times. It’s quick and painless and over before you realize it. The hardest part can be laying on your back for an extended period of time if the table is uncomfortable for you. You can go about your day after the scan. Drink lots of water after to help flush the gunk out of your body, and don’t be worried about the white poo.