Examination of Visceral fat with computed tomography (CT)

INTRO:

Computed tomography (CT) procedure of discovering abdominal visceral fat. How do we use a computed tomography (CT) for overweight and sicknesses?

Computed tomography (CT) procedure

Computed tomography (CT) is a medical scanning procedure for displaying body structures. The examination can be carried out quickly and is very precise.

The heart, lungs, brain, and many other structures can be imaged in great detail using CT. Computed tomography is therefore widely used in many areas of medicine. Read everything you need to know about computed tomography here!

Article overview

• Computed tomography
• What is computed tomography?
• When is a computed tomography performed?
• What do you do with computed tomography?
• What are the risks of computed tomography?
• What do I have to consider after a computed tomography?

Computed Tomography

What is computed tomography?

Computed tomography (CT, CT scan) is an imaging procedure based on X-ray radiation. A rotating X-ray tube (hence the name spiral CT) revolves around the lying patient.

Computed tomography X-rays

X-rays penetrate the body. And are attenuated to different degrees by different organs. Depending on the density of the tissue. High-density tissue (like bone tissue) appears bright in the images. While low-density tissue (like lung tissue) appears dark.

The X-rays are captured by detectors located opposite. The computer then calculates three-dimensional images from the individual sectional images.

Computed tomography also allows a selective display of different tissues (so-called “windowing”). This allows you to assess the lungs, bones, or other organs much better, for example.

When is a computed tomography performed?

Computed tomography can be used to diagnose various diseases and injuries. In some cases, the whole body is examined (whole-body CT), in other cases a specific body region is the focus of the CT:

Skull Computed Tomography

Comp tomography of the head is done. For example, if there is a suspicion of a life-threatening cerebral hemorrhage (e.g. after an accident). A tumor or a vascular malformation in the head. The brain and skull bones can be represented well with it.

Chest CT, Lung CT, Cardio CT (Heart CT)

The organs in the chest (such as the heart, lungs, aorta, and vena cava running in the chest). Can also be examined well using computed tomography.Thoracic CT, sometimes also chest CT.

You can also focus on specific organs in the chest. For example with lung CT and cardio CT (heart CT). To search specifically for diseases or injuries. E.g. pneumonia, lung cancer, coronary heart disease.

Abdomen Computed Tomography

The abdominal organs (stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys). Can also be assessed with a CT scan. You can read more about this in our article CT abdomen.

Computed Tomography Abdomen

A CT abdomen (also abdominal CT). Is an examination of the abdominal cavity (abdomen) using computed tomography. Especially in the case of unclear abdominal pain. It can quickly provide information about s diseases. And injuries such as kidney stones, cirrhosis of the liver, cancer, or vascular injuries. Read everything you need to know about CT abdomen here.

CT abdomen overview

What is a CT abdomen?
When is a CT abdomen performed?
What are the risks of a CT abdomen?

What is a Computed Tomography abdomen?

Computed tomography of the abdomen (CT abdomen, abdomen, CT) is very common. The special X-ray examination provides quick and reliable information about various diseases. And injuries in the abdomen, for example:

gastrointestinal tract
liver and gallbladder
spleen
pancreas
kidneys, urinary tract, and bladder
blood vessels

A CT abdomen provides a good overview of all the structures mentioned. With various additional examinations. Certain organs in the abdomen can be examined in more detail. These include:

Imaging of the kidneys and urinary tract – CT urography
Depiction of the urinary bladder – CT cystography
Depiction of the large intestine (colon) – CT colonography
CT enterography: depiction of the entire gastrointestinal tract
CT cholangiography: imaging of the bile ducts

In some cases, the patient is given a contrast medium before the examination. So that certain structures (such as vessels) can be better identified.

When is a Computed Tomography abdomen performed?

Various circumstances may necessitate a computed tomography of the abdomen, including:

Unexplained abdominal or flank pain

Abdominal or flank pain is a common reason for a CT abdomen. There are many k of possible causes for the symptoms. Common causes behind this are. For example, appendicitis (appendicitis), kidney stones (nephrolithiasis), and gallstones (cholelithiasis). Or inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis).

Liver cirrhosis and other diseases can also cause unclear abdominal pain. However, a CT abdomen should only be performed. If other examination methods (such as ultrasound) cannot determine the cause of the symptoms.

Tumor

A CT abdomen is very suitable for detecting a tumor in the abdomen. Computed tomography can also help with treatment planning. If a tumor has been detected. For example before surgical removal of the tumor or radiotherapy. In addition, the CT abdomen is used as a so-called “follow-up”. Reg check-ups of tumor patients after treatment. ularTo be able to detect renewed growth of the tumor at an early stage.

Abdominal or pelvic injury

After a serious injury (e.g. a car accident). Emergency physicians can use a CT abdomen. To quickly identify life-threatening injuries in the patient. Such as bleeding or injuries to internal organs.

Vascular changes

Diseases of the vessels can also be diagnosed well using a CT abdomen. These include changes in the main artery (aorta). Such as a widening (aneurysm) or a tear (dissection or rupture). Dangerous occlusions of smaller abdominal vessels can also be detected (mesenteric ischemia).

The examination is important for these diseases
The examination can be useful for the following diseases:

aneurysm
aortic dissection
Inflammation of the peritoneum (peritonitis)
appendicitis

What are the risks of a Computed Tomography abdomen?

Computed tomography the greatest danger is its radiation exposure. Radiation is dangerous for radiation to the abdomen, thorax, skull, etc. That is scanned with computed tomography. Therefore, every computed tomography must have a clear medical reason.

Radiation exposure can also be reduced by various technical measures. This is particularly important for young people and children. As well as for people who need multiple computed tomography scans. For example due to a t.

Any contrast agent that may be administered can also cause problems. Such as allergic reactions.

In general, a CT scan of the abdomen is a very important examination. And, despite radiation exposure, is often the best method. For diagnosing diseases and injuries in the abdomen.

Computed Tomography Angiography

Computed tomography of the blood vessels. Helps in the diagnosis of vascular diseases and injuries. This can be used, for example, to diagnose dangerous vasodilatation (aneurysm). Or a “window syndrome” (“smoker’s leg”: peripheral arterial occlusive disease, PAOD).

Before the examination. A contrast medium is injected into a vein. Which is distributed in the vascular system. And makes it more visible in the images. Vessels then appear very bright.

If necessary, the diseased vessel can then often be treated in the same session. For example by inserting a stent (“vascular support”). Doctors then speak of interventional radiology.

Whole Body Computed Tomography

Computed tomography of the whole body is mainly used in emer. Patients with various, sometimes life-threatening injuries (polytrauma). For example after a traffic accident. Can be examined quickly and painlessly. Life-threatening injuries (such as internal organs and broken bones). Can be recognized within a few minutes. And can then be given priority treatment.

Computed tomography with contrast medium

As already mentioned for CT angiography. A CT examination can be carried out with a contrast agent if necessary. This is either administered as an injection. Or taken as a drink. To examine the gastrointestinal tract. In most cases, an iodinated contrast medium is used. This can be dangerous for people with thyroid disorders. In addition, contrast media damage the kidneys. So caution should also be exercised in people with kidney damage.

When shouldn’t computed tomography be performed?

Pregnant women should not be examined using computed tomography. The reason for this is the high radiation exposure. CT of the thorax, for example, has radiation exposure. Which is approximately 80 times higher than a normal chest X).

Alternatives to computed tomography?

Since computed tomography can be performed quickly. And is available in almost every clinic. It is the standard for diagnostics in many clinical pictures. And is therefore without alternative. Non-hazardous, radiation-free magnetic resonance imaging (magnetic resonance imaging, MRI). Often takes too long and is not yet available in all hospitals.

The examination is important for these diseases:

carotid stenosis
fracture
cerebral hemorrhage
lung infection

What do you do with computed tomography?

Before computed tomography. A doctor will discuss the upcoming examination with you in detail. Especially if a contrast-enhanced CT is planned. The doctor will ask you if you have any of the following diseases or allergies:

Overactive or underactive thyroid
renal dysfunction
Allergy to contrast media

The radiologist will also ask you if you are taking any medication. Certain preparations can interact with the contrast medium. You will also find out during the interview. Whether you need to be sober for the computed tomography. No eating or drinking before the examination.

Contrast medium and computed tomography

If a contrast medium is required for the computed tomography. You will be given it either through a vein or as a liquid to drink. Don’t be alarmed if you get a metallic taste on your tongue. Or a feeling of warmth in your body. It comes from the contrast medium and disappears again.

Computer tomograph and cross-sectional images

For the examination itself. You lie down on the mobile examination table. Which is then pushed into the CT tube. During the examination. The table moves slowly through the computer tomograph. So that the measuring devices can create cross-sectional images. Of the desired body region. Or the entire body.

You don’t feel anything. But you have to lie as still as possible the whole time. And, depending on the examination region. Hold your breath for a short time. So that the images don’t “shake”.

Overall, the examination often only takes a few minutes, sometimes up to half an hour.

If necessary (e.g. in small children or “claustrophobia”), the doctor administers an anesthetic. Or a sedative before the examination.

What are the risks of computed tomography?

Computed tomography entails different risks. Especially in connection with the high radiation exposure. And the administration of contrast medium that may be necessary.

Radiation exposure

CT examinations are associated with a high level of radiation exposure in the body. This is many times higher than with a normal X-ray examination. Therefore, every computed tomography must be medically justified.

The radiation dose to which a patient is exposed during the examination depends on various factors. Such as the duration of the examination and the tissue being examined.

For example, the average exposure to radiation from a computer tomography scan. T abdomen is up to 20 millisieverts. For comparison: According to the Federal Office for Radiation Protection. The average exposure to radiation from cosmic radiation in Germany is 2.1 millisieverts per year per person.

Ultimately, the doctor must decide together with the patient. Whether crucial information about a possible disease can be obtained from computed tomography. Or whether the risk of radiation exposure is too high. This is often a case-by-case decision.

Side effects of the contrast media

Some patients complain of headaches, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. Or abdominal pain after administration of contrast medium.

Contrast media containing iodine can cause serious health problems. If the thyroid function is disturbed. In most cases, however, these side effects can be prevented. Or mitigated with appropriate medication.

The contrast agent administered is broken down by the kidneys. Which can become a problem in people with kidney problems. In extreme cases, contrast medium-induced nephropathy can occur, which worsens kidney function.

You can also have an allergic reaction to the contrast medium. This side effect can often not be foreseen during the first computed tomography. But can be treated with medication.

More about the symptoms
The examination can be useful if you have the following symptoms:

gait disorder
meningism
Cough
chills

What do I have to consider after a computed tomography?

After a computed tomography, you do not have to pay attention to anything special. If you have received a contrast medium. You should drink enough after the examination. So that your body excretes it quickly.

CONTENT:

• Computed tomography (CT) procedure
• What is computed tomography?
• Computed tomography X-rays
• When is a computed tomography performed?
• Skull Computed Tomography
• Chest CT, Lung CT, Cardio CT (Heart CT)
• Abdomen Computed Tomography
• CT abdomen overview
• What is a Computed Tomography abdomen?
• When is a Computed Tomography abdomen performed?
• Unexplained abdominal or flank pain
• Tumor
• Abdominal or pelvic injury
• Vascular changes
• What are the risks of a Computed Tomography abdomen?
• Computed Tomography Angiography
• Whole Body Computed Tomography
• Computed tomography with contrast medium
• When shouldn’t computed tomography be performed?
• What to do with computed tomography?
• Contrast medium and computed tomography
• computer tomograph and cross-sectional images
• Risks of computed tomography?
• Radiation exposure
• Side effects of the contrast media