How to Get a CT Scan to Test for Crohn's Disease

A CT scan is often used to test for Crohn's disease when the primary symptom is abdominal pain, and when other tests have been inconclusive or haven't provided sufficient information. A CT scan can show inflammatory changes and bowel thickening that are consistent with Crohn's disease. It can also illuminate complications such as abscesses or blockages.

Things You'll Need

• Physician
• Insurance information (if applicable)

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Instructions

Prepare to Get a CT Scan to Test For Crohn's Disease

• 1

  Discuss with your doctor whether a CT scan would be useful as a diagnostic tool in your case.
  

• 2

  Determine whether you will be having a contrast or non-contrast CT scan. A contrast scan involves ingesting or being injected with a dye containing iodine. The dye interacts with the scanner to show the abdominal organs distinctly. Let your doctor know whether you've had a bad reaction to the contrast or are allergic to iodine.

• 3

  Abstain from food and liquids for at least 4 hours prior to the test, specifically if you are having a contrast scan. However, since the test will be examining the bowel processes, your doctor may ask you to fast for a few hours before the exam even if you are not having a contrast exam.

• 4

  Obtain a pre-authorization from your insurance company, if necessary, and bring it with any other registration materials on the day of your scan.

Get a CT Scan to Test For Crohn's Disease

• 5

  Remove all metal objects, such as jewelry and clothing with zippers or metal buttons. They can interfere with the clarity of the images.
  

• 6

  Change into a hospital gown and follow medical personnel into the imaging room. An IV will be started into which any contrast dye can be injected. Expect some localized stinging, a generalized flushed and warm sensation and the urge to urinate when the dye is first injected. This will pass within 5 minutes or so.

• 7

  Climb onto the movable table and stay very still as the table is inserted into the middle of the circular CT machine. You will be surrounded by the donut-shaped tube and have very little room in which to move.

• 8

  Listen for the voice of the technician over the intercom as he tells you when to hold your breath and when to breathe. As difficult as it may be, you need to remain pretty much immobilized for the 30 to 90 minutes of the scan for optimal images to be taken. The tech will be able to hear you if you have questions or are having any difficulties.

• 9

  Sit up once the images are complete and the table is removed from the scanner. Wait while the radiologist checks to make sure the pictures are in order. If not, you may have to repeat some of them.

• 10

  Call your doctor's office the next day for the results of the CT scan.