CECT (Contrast Enhanced CT Scan) Enterography

CECT enterography (contrast-enhanced CT enterography) is a specialized abdominal CT that uses oral neutral contrast to distend the small bowel plus intravenous iodinated contrast and thin-slice, high-resolution imaging to visualize mucosa, wall enhancement, and surrounding structures. It detects inflammation, bleeding, strictures, fistulae and tumors—commonly used for Crohn’s disease—requires breath-holds, and involves radiation and IV contrast risks.

CT enterography uses large volumes of oral neutral or low‑attenuation enteric contrast (water, polyethylene glycol solutions, mannitol, sorbitol, or a low‑density barium preparation such as VoLumen) to distend the small bowel, combined with intravenous non‑ionic iodinated contrast (e.g., iohexol or iopamidol) to enhance the bowel wall and vessels. Oral and IV agents are timed for optimal distension and enhancement.

CT enterography in India typically costs between INR 3,000 and INR 15,000. Prices vary by city, facility (private vs. government), imaging center amenities, contrast use and reconstruction, and whether radiologist consultation or additional tests are included. High-end tertiary hospitals in metros trend toward the upper end, while government hospitals and diagnostic chains often charge less.

CT enterography is a specialized CT protocol optimized for the small intestine. Patients drink large volumes of neutral oral contrast to distend the bowel; intravenous contrast and timed, thin-slice imaging capture enteric-phase enhancement. Compared with a routine abdominal CT, it provides superior mucosal and wall detail of the small bowel, improving detection of inflammation, strictures, bleeding and tumors, and needs specific preparation.

CT enterography is generally not painful. The scan itself is quick and painless, though drinking large volumes of oral contrast can cause fullness, bloating, nausea, or mild abdominal cramping. Intravenous contrast may cause brief warmth, a metallic taste, or slight sting at the injection site. Serious complications are rare; inform staff about allergies, kidney problems, or pregnancy beforehand.

A doctor orders CT enterography to get detailed, high-resolution images of the small intestine when symptoms or tests suggest conditions like Crohn’s disease, unexplained GI bleeding, suspected small-bowel tumors, strictures, fistulas, abscesses, or persistent abdominal pain when endoscopy is inconclusive. It maps inflammation, complications, and post‑operative issues, guiding diagnosis and treatment by using oral and IV contrast to highlight bowel wall and surrounding structures.