What is CT Enterography?

CT Enterography is a CT exam specifically used to image the small and large bowel. CT enterography is performed to assess for the presence and extent of Crohn's disease and/or inflammatory bowel disease. If an abnormality is detected, important information such as the type of abnormality, location and severity can be further characterized.

What will I experience?

You should arrive at Suburban Imaging one hour and 15 minutes prior to your exam to drink oral contrast material at timed intervals. An IV will also be started in a vein in your arm. Once this is complete, you will begin your exam by lying on the CT table with your arms resting above your head. You will then be given contrast material through the IV line that was placed earlier. You may feel a brief warm sensation after the contrast material is injected. You will be asked to hold your breath for approximately 20-30 seconds while images are captured. The table moves slowly through the ring-shaped CT scanner as the images are taken.

Immediately after the scan, a technologist will give you some juice to drink. We recommend that you have a snack/meal as soon as possible after the exam, since it will have been a considerable time since you have eaten solid food.

How should I prepare for the test?

You will have a clear liquid diet for 12 hours prior to your scheduled examination time. For this reason, most people prefer to schedule this exam in the morning.

How long does the test take?

You will check in 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to your scheduled examination time to register and begin drinking the contrast material. The CT scan portion of the examination takes approximately 20 minutes.

What should I do after the procedure?

• You will be monitored briefly following the examination and your IV will be removed 10-15 minutes after the exam.
• Resume all of your previous medications.
• Your CT images will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist, and the findings will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results.
  

CT Enterography is available at: Coon Rapids and Southdale