Pancreatic CT scan is a fundamental imaging exam for the assessment of the pancreatic gland and neighbouring structures. It is a fast and highly accurate method, widely used in the diagnosis of tumours, inflammation and traumatic complications.
What is a Pancreatic CT scan and what is it for?
Pancreatic CT scan is a computed tomography exam focused on the study of the pancreas, an essential organ in both the digestive and endocrine systems. It allows assessment not only of the pancreatic gland itself, but also of adjacent tissues, blood vessels and neighbouring organs such as the liver, spleen and duodenum.
CT scan is considered the first-line technique in the evaluation of pancreatic diseases due to its speed, reliability and ability to provide high-resolution images.
How much does a Pancreatic CT scan cost?
The price of a Pancreatic CT scan when performed on a private basis is €120.
However, you may undergo a Pancreatic CT scan through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: When a Pancreatic CT scan is performed through the SNS, the patient does not pay any amount (you must bring the Health Centre prescription);
- ADSE: If the Pancreatic CT scan is performed through ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of €16;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers. In this case, the price of the Pancreatic CT scan varies according to the insurance you use.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans. In this case, the price of the Pancreatic CT scan varies according to the health plan you use.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For a Pancreatic CT scan, the protocol price is €80.
How is it performed?
Pancreatic CT scan is performed with the patient lying on a table that moves through the CT scanner. In most cases, iodinated contrast is administered intravenously and, in certain situations, oral contrast may also be given to allow better characterization of the pancreas and nearby structures. The exam usually lasts between 10 and 20 minutes.
NRD has a latest-generation Philips 128-slice scanner, which provides sharp images with a low radiation dose, ensuring safety and effectiveness in every exam.
What does it detect?
Pancreatic CT scan can detect several abnormalities of the pancreas and adjacent organs, such as:
- Pancreatic tumours, including adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine tumours, essential for early oncological diagnosis.
- Simple or complex pancreatic cysts, helping with their characterization and clinical follow-up.
- Acute and chronic pancreatitis, with detailed assessment of possible complications such as necrosis or abscesses.
- Associated vascular changes, such as splenic or mesenteric vein thrombosis, which are essential for treatment planning.
- Metastases to neighbouring organs, such as the liver or regional lymph nodes, for staging and follow-up of cancer.
- Traumatic injuries to the pancreas, crucial for emergency management and surgical planning.
- Other adjacent pathologies that may affect the pancreas and surrounding structures, providing an integrated view of the region.
In which cases is it indicated?
Pancreatic CT scan is usually requested by the doctor in specific clinical situations, such as:
- Assessment of persistent abdominal pain or suspected pancreatitis, allowing early diagnosis and monitoring of pancreatic inflammation;
- Diagnosis or staging of pancreatic tumours, essential for therapeutic planning and oncological prognosis;
- Monitoring of pancreatic cysts or masses, contributing to regular follow-up and effective clinical management;
- Investigation of the cause of obstructive jaundice with suspected pancreatic head tumour, helping with differential diagnosis;
- Evaluation of complications of pancreatitis, such as abscesses, pseudocysts and necrosis, which are fundamental for appropriate medical or surgical intervention;
- Planning surgical interventions or assessing the postoperative status of the pancreas, ensuring safe and effective treatment;
- Investigation of other pancreatic diseases or related anatomical changes, integrating diagnosis within a multidisciplinary approach.
Pancreatic CT scan may be indicated by several medical specialties, such as Gastroenterology, Oncology and Internal Medicine. Your family doctor may also request a pancreatic CT scan to clarify a diagnosis, refer you to specialists or support clinical follow-up.
Pancreatic CT scan with Contrast
Pancreatic CT scan is usually performed with intravenous contrast, allowing assessment of the gland’s vascularization and better differentiation of tumour or inflammatory lesions. The contrast injection may cause a brief warm sensation or metallic taste, which quickly disappear. In these cases, fasting for 4 hours is usually required (you will be informed at the time of booking).
In certain CT exams, for better visualization/study of the digestive tract (Abdominal and Pelvic exams) and/or if medically indicated, it may be necessary to drink oral contrast. In this situation, you should arrive at the clinic between 1 and 2 hours before the scheduled exam time to carry out the oral preparation (you will be informed at the time of booking). Fasting for 4 hours is required.
It is essential to inform the team if you have known allergies (to medicines, foods, etc.), asthma, allergic rhinitis or previous reactions to contrast agents, as these conditions may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Preparing for a Pancreatic CT scan
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You should bring the exam prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | If the exam is performed with contrast, you must fast for 4 hours. When the exam is performed without contrast, fasting is not required. |
| Arriving early | Generally, you only need to arrive 15 minutes before the exam, except when oral contrast will be used. In that case, you should arrive 1 to 2 hours before the exam (you will be informed at booking). |
| Previous exams | You should bring any relevant previous exams. |
| Medical history | Keep in mind your previous medical history regarding allergies, cardio-respiratory and kidney diseases, and usual medication. |
| Water | If necessary or if you wish, you may drink water. |
NRD will provide you with all necessary instructions at the time of booking.
Instructions during the exam
- Remain still to avoid artefacts on the images;
- In certain exams (for example thoracic, abdominal or pelvic), you should follow the breathing instructions given by the NRD healthcare professional.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the CT scan results within up to 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take the CD with the images with you.
Where to have it done?
Pancreatic CT scan can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)