CT Abdominal Scans in Children (Pediatric Computed Tomography of
the Abdomen) A CT abdominal scan is a type of medical exam that
uses X-ray equipment and a computer to make many cross-sectional
images of the abdomen. These images can be studied on a
computer, printed, or put on a CD. A CT scan of the abdomen is
an important test to diagnose abdominal problems in newborns,
infants, and children. It’s called a noninvasive medical test
because it doesn’t involve an incision or procedure that goes
inside your child's body. Reasons for the procedure An abdominal
CT scan allows doctors to get a better picture of what is going
on inside the abdomen than a plain X-ray. Some reasons your
child may need an abdominal CT scan include: Find the cause of
abdominal pain Help diagnose an infection in the abdomen Help
diagnose digestive problems Help diagnose urinary problems
Evaluate abdominal injuries Diagnose or plan treatment for
cancer Some childhood diseases that an abdominal CT scan can
help diagnose include appendicit