Of the many digital services offered at Hudson Valley Imaging, two of the most common services are CT scanning and MRI scanning. Both scans allow physicians to see detailed images of the body's internal structures. Sometimes these scans require preparation, including drinking of an oral contrast.
What Are Contrast Materials
Also called contrast agents …show more content…
The contrast is used to make specific organs, blood vessels, and tissues stand out. However, sometimes a scan without contrast is done first so the radiologist can see the body’s structures prior to introducing the contrast. At Hudson Valley Imaging, patients are given specific instructions on preparation, which might include fasting and/or taking a contrast, when scheduling the procedure.
Barium-sulfate contrast materials are typically used in CT scans to block or limit the ability of x-rays to pass through. After a patient swallows the barium-sulfate contrast materials, images of the gastrointestinal tract, including the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and small and large intestine are enhanced. If the contrast materials are administed by enema, the images of the lower GI tract are enhanced.
Gadolinium is the key component of the contrast material most often used in MRI scans. When injected into a vein, the contrast materials alters the magnetic properties of water molecules, enhancing the quality of the images of internal organs, the gastrointestinal tract, arteries and veins, soft tissues, the brain, and