What is an IV contrast CT scan?
IV (Intravenous) contrast scan is a scan that utilizes contrast material to obtain sharper and clear pictures of the scanned region. Contrast scans are the advanced types of the normal CT scan, which require more attention and care while undergoing the test.
Purpose of IV contrast CT scan?
IV contrast is the new name for CT scan in which the physician advises to take contrast in order to get a clear and proper picture of the scanning area. For CT scan contrast patients will be told not to eat anything before 4 hours of the test and also will be advised to refrain from any kind of drinking before 2 hours of the test. The patient will be administered iodine-based or barium sulphate-based contrast intravenously (IV).
Blood test: A blood test will ensure that the contrast will be safe to take.
Diet: You will need to eat only a certain kind of foods and beverages prior to the scan and what not to do.
Medication: Inform the doctor about the medications the patient is taking, because some of these medications have allergic cross-reactivity with the contrast. Eg. Metformin (Glucophage) diabetic medication should be stopped for certain period of time before the scan.
How Much Does IV Contrast CT Scan Cost in Delhi, NCR?
The cost of a CT contrast differs based on location, healthcare center and healthcare provider quality and have good healthcare providers at affordable rates and discounts.
How Does It Help Radiologists Detect The Abnormality in the Body?
This advanced visualization method helps radiologist and medical professionals to detect abnormalities like-
- It detects the normal and abnormal tissues found in our body.
- Makes blood vessels more visible and transparent to detect the abnormality.
- Give information on blood flow.
- Helps radiologists to detect leakages and blockages.
Conclusion
IV contrast CT scan is a higher form of CT scan where the contrast material is administered intravenously for good and clear pictures of the region to be scanned. Patients must disclose all medical history to the doctor, and in the event of allergy to the contrast and must follow a diet before the scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is an IV contrast CT scan?
IV contrast CT scan is the advanced version of CT scan where a contrast dye is used to obtain clear images of the region to be scanned.
Q. What is the full form of CT scan?
“computed tomography” scan.
Q. What are the differences between a CT scan and a PET scan?
CT uses computer technology with the use of X-rays while PET scans use radioactive tracers for the detection of abnormality.
Q. Is IV contrast CT scan painful?
IV contrast CT scans are not painful, but some patients may feel uncomfortable if they have claustrophobia (claustrophobic–phobia of closed spaces) and needle prick in case the contrast is given intravenously.
Q. What are the side effects of an IV contrast CT scan?
No adverse effects of IV contrast CT scans exist, though certain people are allergic to the contrast. Contact a physician prior to receiving a contrast CT.
