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Computed Tomography (CT) Scan of the Pancreas

(Pancreas CT Scan)

What is a CT scan of the pancreas?







Anatomy of the pancreas

Illustration of the anatomy of the pancreas
Click Image to Enlarge


The pancreas is made up of 2 types of glands:



Functions of the pancreas

The pancreas has digestive and hormonal functions:



What are the reasons for a CT scan of the pancreas?




What are the risks of a CT scan?



If contrast media is used, there is a risk for allergic reaction to the media. Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to medications should notify their doctor. You will need to let your doctor know if you have ever had a reaction to any contrast media, and/or any kidney problems. A reported seafood allergy is not considered to be a contraindication for iodinated contrast. If you are taking metformin/Glucophage or a related medication, you may be asked to stop taking it for at least 48 hours after receiving the contrast, as it may cause a condition known as metabolic acidosis, or an unsafe change in your blood pH. 

Patients with kidney failure or other kidney problems should notify their doctor. In some cases, the contrast media can cause kidney failure, especially if the person is dehydrated or has underlying kidney problems.



  • Metallic objects within the abdomen, such as surgical clips

  • Presence of barium in the intestines from a recent barium study

How do I prepare for a CT scan?

If you are having a computed tomography angiography (CTA) with Johns Hopkins radiology, you will be given specific instructions when you make your appointment.


CLOTHING: You may be asked to change into a patient gown. If so, a gown will be provided for you. A locker will be provided to secure personal belongings. Please remove all piercings and leave all jewelry and valuables at home.

CONTRAST MEDIA: CT scans are most frequently done with and without a contrast media. The contrast media improves the radiologist's ability to view the images of the inside of the body.

  • Some patients should not have an iodine-based contrast media. If you have problems with your kidney function, please inform the access center representative when you schedule the appointment. You may be able to have the scan performed without contrast media or have an alternative imaging exam.

  • You will be asked to sign a consent form that will detail the risks and side-effects associated with contrast media injected through a small tube places in a vein called an intravenous (IV) line.

  • The most common type of CT scan with contrast is the double contrast study that will require you to drink a contrast media before your exam begins in addition to the IV contrast. The more contrast you are able to drink, the better the images are for the radiologist to visualize your digestive tract.

ALLERGY: Please inform the access center representative when you schedule your CT scan if you have had an allergic reaction to any contrast media. IV contrast will not be administered if you have had a severe or anaphylactic reaction to any contrast media in the past. If you had mild to moderate reactions in the past, you will likely need to take medication prior to the CT scan. These plans will be discussed with you in detail when you schedule your exam. Any known reactions to a contrast media should be discussed with your personal physician.

EAT/DRINK: If your doctor ordered a CT scan without contrast, you can eat, drink and take your prescribed medications prior to your exam. If your doctor ordered a CT scan with contrast, do not eat anything three hours prior to your CT scan. You are encouraged to drink clear liquids. You may also take your prescribed medications prior to your exam.

DIABETICS: Diabetics should eat a light breakfast or lunch three hours prior to the scan time. Depending on your oral medication for diabetes, you may be asked to discontinue use of the medication for 48 hours after the CT scan. If you have a CT scan with Johns Hopkins radiology, detailed instructions will be given following your examination.

MEDICATION: All patients can take their prescribed medications as usual.


What happens during a CT scan?


Generally, a CT scan follows this process:

  1. You may be asked to change into a patient gown. If so, a gown will be provided for you. A locked will be provided to secure all personal belongings. Please remove all piercings and leave all jewelry and valuables at home.

  2. If you are to have a procedure done with contrast, an intravenous (IV) line will be started in the hand or arm for injection of the contrast media. For oral contrast, you will be given a liquid contrast preparation to swallow. In some situations, the contrast may be given rectally.






  8. If contrast media is used for your procedure, you may feel some effects when the media is injected into the IV line. These effects include a flushing sensation, a salty or metallic taste in the mouth, a brief headache, or nausea and/or vomiting. These effects usually last for a few moments.

  9. You should notify the technologist if you feel any breathing difficulties, sweating, numbness or heart palpitations.

  10. When the procedure has been completed, you will be removed from the scanner.



What happens after a CT scan?

If contrast media was used during your procedure, you may be monitored for a period of time for any side effects or reactions to the contrast media, such as itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.



More Information About Tests and Procedures of the Pancreas in the Health Library

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