A CT scan is an important examination for diagnosing pancreatic disease and for making an operation plan. For example, in pancreatic cancer, it can be determined how far the tumor has grown and whether there are metastases. A CT scan uses X-rays. The scanner itself is a round tube through which the patient is pushed in a lying position. A beam projector and detector circle the patient, and a series of 'slice' images of the body are then taken. In addition, a contrast medium is administered via an IV and sometimes you are also asked to drink a little contrast liquid. This makes blood vessels, the gastrointestinal tract and tumors more visible. The examination takes about 20 minutes, and the patient does not feel anything.
Afterwards, the radiologist examines all images in detail and assesses any abnormalities that are found.