What is a CT Abdomen Scan Used For?

A CT abdomen scan can help doctors identify the cause of abdominal pain in a patient. CT abdomen scans check the lower gastrointestinal tract, colon, rectum and nearby organs and tissues for signs of diseases and disorders. Some diseases and disorders that can be revealed by a CT abdomen scan are:

• Abscess in the abdomen
• Colitis
• Colon cancer
• Diverticulitis
• Appendicitis

A CT abdomen scan can also help doctors to:

• Rule out potential causes of abdominal pain
• Determine the size, extent and exact location of a problem
• Plan biopsies, radiation and other courses of treatment for the abdominal condition