CT Enterogram- About the Exam
CT enterogram (aka CT enterography) is a special type of computed tomography (CT) imaging performed with contrast material to produce images of the small intestine. Mountain Medical’s radiologists perform CT enterogram to identify and locate inflammation, bleeding sources, tumors, abscesses and fistulas, and bowel obstructions. CT enterogram is also used to diagnose, evaluate and guide the treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn disease, including monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.
Prior to the procedure, you will be asked to drink several glasses of a liquid solution that contains a contrast material. The total amount of fluid you will need to drink is approximately 1 to 1.5 liters.
Patients will drink the contrast material over a period of approximately one hour in order to fill the entire small intestine. The fluid expands the small bowel for better imaging of the bowel lumen and wall for a CT enterogram.
What to expect during a routine CT Enterogram:
- The technologist begins by positioning the patient on the CT examination table lying flat on their back.
- The table will then move quickly through the scanner to determine the correct starting position for the exams.
- The table will then move slowly through the machine while the actual CT enterogram is performed.
- A CT enterogram exam is usually completed within 30 to 45 minutes.
Learn how to prepare for a CT enterogram.
Learn the benefits and risks of CT enterogram.
Watch the CT - What to Expect Video.
