Scan method. When a patient is scheduled for an abdominal scan, he or she will go to the radiology department of a hospital, or a clinic with the proper equipment. The patient will be placed in the machine wearing a dressing gown. Most scans take ten to thirty minutes, depending on the level of detail required and any necessary preparation. Normally the patient lies still on his or her back, but pillows may be used to help a patient hold a different position. If the scan requires contrast dye, this will add time to the procedure. Dye is administered via IV, orally or through the anus, depending on the nature of the scan.
