A CAT scan (computed axial tomography), or CT scan, is a painless test that uses multiple x-rays, taken from different angles, to create three-dimensional images of body structures. Increasingly, CAT scans use digital x-rays as opposed to standard x-rays, which allow the images to be viewed on a computer screen.

CAT scans are among the most technologically advanced imaging methods used to detect gynecological conditions, such as ovarian and endometrial cancer. However, because a CAT scan involves the use of higher intensity radiation for longer periods of time, pregnant women should not have an abdominal or chest CAT scan. This is a precaution to help protect the fetus from radiation exposure that could lead to developmental malformations or childhood cancer.

CAT scans are usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic or imaging center. They are administered by a radiologist and radiology technicians who specialize in this type of test.

CAT scans are taken in a special device that contains a long tube with a narrow bed in the middle. The tube contains both an x-ray gun and rows of x-ray detectors. The x-ray gun is rotated 360 degrees around the patient, who lies on a table within the tube. The CAT scan obtains three-dimensional, cross-sectional images of the patient’s body. In some cases, a special dye (contrast medium) is injected into the patient’s vein and a second set of pictures is taken. The dye helps highlight certain regions of the body that are of interest during the examination.

The time required for a CAT scan depends upon the needs of the physician and the type of CAT scanner being used. Generally, a CAT scan takes 10 to 20 minutes while other scans may take as long as an hour. Some patients may be given a sedative for the procedure and they will not be able to drive themselves home from the test site. In most cases, patients can return to their usual daily activities following their scan.