Computed tomography (CT)

• It is one of the most recommended techniques to detect, diagnose and stage pancreatic cancer. ⁷
• The scanning technique is a combination of computer and x-ray technologies.
• The patient is made to lie on a bench and the bench is then passed through a circular gantry. The machine takes many X-rays and a computer linked with the machine produces 3 dimensional images which can be studied on the monitor itself or can be printed. The procedure is non invasive and painless. A radio contrast dye may be used for which the technician may ask the patient to drink a liquid media and inject a dye.
• A CT scan allows detection of the tumor and helps the doctor to know whether the tumor can be surgically removed.
• Helical multidetector CT (MDCT) is a more advanced technique that gives higher quality images in a shorter time as compared to the traditional CT techniques.⁷