Computed Tomography
Enterography Scan
What is CT Enterography? CT Enterography is a special type
of Computed tomography (CT) imaging performed with oral contrast
material to produce images of the small intestine. A CT
Scan is sometimes referred to as a CAT Scan which is a noninvasive
medical test to diagnose medical conditions. A CT Scan combines
special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce
multiple cross sectional images of the inside of the
body.
How do I prepare for this Test? Please wear comfortable,
loose fitting clothing to your exam. You may be asked to
change into a hospital gown for your comfort. You must not
eat or drink anything for 2 hours prior to your exam. You may
take your daily medications with a small amount of water.
Please bring a list of all medications and allergies. We will
make a copy of it if necessary. Please report to the Outpatient
Registration Department 1 hour prior to your scheduled exam time.
Outpatient Registration and Radiology Departments are located on
the first floor of Beverly Hospital, Lahey Outpatient Center,
Danvers and Addison Gilbert Hospital. The technologist will
greet you in the Radiology Department and assist you in preparation
for the exam. You will receive three (3) 450 oz. bottles of
oral contrast to drink every 15 minutes. This oral contrast is used
to highlight your small intestine. You will be allowed to use
the bathroom.
What to Expect During the CT Enterography? You will be
required to answer questions that our Technologist will review with
you. The technologist will position you on the table, lying on your
back. You will receive the intravenous contrast in a vein in
your arm. You will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted
into your vein. You may have a warm, flushed sensation during
the injection of the contrast material and a metallic taste in your
mouth that lasts for a few minutes. You may experience a
sensation like you have to urinate but this subsides
quickly. The table will move quickly through the scanner to
determine the correct starting position for the scan. Then
the table will move slowly through the machine as the actual CT
scanning is performed. You may be asked to hold your breath
during the scanning to eliminate motion artifacts on the
images. You will be alone in the exam room during the CT
scan, unless there are special circumstances. However, the
technologist will always be able to see, hear and speak with you at
all times giving you instructions.
Testing Time: The entire examination including preparation
is usually completed within 1 to 1 ½ hours.
Risk of the Test: Be sure to notify the technologist if
there is any chance you may be pregnant or allergic to IV
contrast.
Following the Test: You will be instructed to drink plenty
of fluids to flush out the IV contrast. If you take a regular
dose of Glucophage (Metformin), you MUST discontinue taking it for
48 hours following your exam. It is necessary to have a blood test
in 2 days to determine that your kidneys are functioning properly
BEFORE you resume your Glucophage. We will fax your ordering
physician to inform them of your need for a blood test.
You will also receive a letter from us reminding you of this.
The contrast material given for enterography is not absorbed by the
body and will be expelled through the rectum. Therefore,
loose stools will be present for a couple of hours after the
exam. You will be instructed to drink water to flush out the
IV contrast. There are no restrictions following the
test.
Results of the test: Your ordering physician will receive
the results in 24-48 hours. It is important to discuss the
results of the exam with your doctor.
