Contrast for CT Scan

[gsapple23]

I have stage 3a CKD. I had a kidney removed in 2022 due to renal cell carcinoma. I am currently having scans every 6 months. I have asked for no contrast due to my reaction to it, and the doctors has sent in the orders without contrast, however my upcoming scan is scheduled to taken with Barium contrast. Can anyone tell me if there is a difference in the IV contrast and the Barium?

[Zinnia70]

the barium you drink and it shows your GI tract on the scans.

[gsapple23 in reply to Zinnia70]

Thanks so much for your reply. I will ask more questions.

[PeaB4YouGo]

Best to call the radiology department and ask. I've never had an occasion where someone couldn't tell me what was happening in a lab/test/procedure. Ask often and ask loudly.

If you have concerns, as I did recently, call the Dr who ordered the test, remind him/her of your concerns, and ask about the possibility of doing this without contrast. Ask him/her to explain why there is a need for contrast, and if there are any chances you may pass the contrast through your GI tract without actually absorbing any into your system, like a colonoscopy prep.

[gsapple23 in reply to PeaB4YouGo]

The orders say no contrast, because i've expressed my concerns in the past. Thanks for your reply.

[PeaB4YouGo in reply to PeaB4YouGo]

UPDATE: For an upcoming CT, ordered by my Nephro, I'm getting contrast, then I'm going directly into dialysis. The best of both worlds.

[ShyeLoverDoctor]

I have compromised kidney function and was in the emergency department (i.e. being taken care of by a doctor who didn’t know), and the orderly started pushing my bed down the hall and said “The doctor ordered a MRI I’m taking you there.” I asked, “With contrast?” He said “Yes.” I said “Take me back I want to see the doctor.” Who knew if that detail had been overlooked in a fast-paced medical environment? People get injured by doctors’ negligence all the time.

Last year I was having headaches so they ordered a MRI without contrast. They found a brain tumor. They said they needed to see it better so I should have one with contrast. I said OK. Even I could see the difference when the doctor showed me my scans on the screen, with and without. Sometimes it is important, but sometimes it isn’t.

[Marvin8]

You might want to research "Beet juice and contrast dye induced kidney injury".