CT Scan of the Abdomen

Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT or CAT) of your abdomen. CT scans use X-ray technology and advanced computer analysis to create detailed pictures of your body. A CT can help diagnose problems in the liver, spleen, colon, pancreas, kidneys and other internal organs. Cedars-Sinai's S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center has a team of specialists who focus on taking and interpreting CTs. Our team of expert physicians, nurses and technologists is led by Cindy Kallman, MD, Chief, CT Scan and Ultrasound.

Before Arriving for Your Exam

Patients who are diabetic and taking Glucophage will need clearance from their referring physician prior to starting the exam.

If your exam includes an IV injection of a contrast dye, you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything for 4 hours prior to your exam. Not all scans use a contrast dye. The dye improves the image quality by highlighting certain structures, such as arteries or the colon and making them more visible on the scan.

In some cases the contrast dye is given orally, while in others it must be placed through the use of an enema.

Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home and wear comfortable clothing.

Although we do not anticipate any delay in your scheduled appointment, we recommend that you bring a book, a magazine or a music player to help pass the time while you are waiting.

After Arriving

A radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history.

With abdominal CT, the contrast dye is given either orally or through an enema (this is usually when the colon is being studied.)

You must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam.

During Your Exam

While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.

You will be given the contrast dye.

Most often, you will be asked to lie flat on your back with your arms over hour head.

The table you are on will slide into the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out. The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.

You will be asked to hold very still and at times to hold your breath.

This procedure usually takes approximately 15-30 minutes.

After Your Exam

There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.

If you received an injection of contrast dye, you should drink plenty of liquid to help flush it out of your system. Drinking six to eight cups of water is recommended.

Your study will be read by an imaging physician who specializes in the interpretation of CT scans. The results will be sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.

Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.

Parking and Valet Information at the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center

We are pleased to announce that we now offer valet parking for imaging patients only. Valet service is available directly in front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center. The price is $4.00 with validation. Validation is available at the Imaging Registration desk inside the center.

If you wish to self-park, you may park in lot P4. The imaging center has a FREE dedicated shuttle service which runs every few minutes and will bring patients directly to the front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, and return them to Lot4. Parking in lot P4 or any other Cedars-Sinai lot costs $4.00 with validation. Validation is available at the Imaging Registration desk inside the center.

Please Note: We do not validate for parking lots in the Medical Office Towers located at 8631 and 8635 W. 3rd Street.