CT SCAN OF LOWER ABDOMEN (INCLUDING PELVIS) WITH CONTRAST

CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain Overview

• A CT scan of the abdomen and is a standard examination that falls in the category of a special radiology test. Computed tomography uses X-ray technology to visualize the structures located in the abdominal and pelvic cavities in finer detail than could be obtained with a single X-ray. Because a CT scan displays 3D views rather than just 2D images, it is constructed using a series of X-ray images provided from several different viewing angles, so it is more informative than an X-ray. 
• This study is typically carried out to aid in diagnosing diseases and conditions of the stomach, liver, bowel, and other organs in the abdomen, as well as in assessing the extent of any abdominal trauma. Some patients prepare by fasting or abstaining from liquids a couple of hours ahead of the test, though this isn’t as strict as in other examinations. 

What is CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain? 

• A unique type of X ray machine usually integrated with a computer combines this x ray procedure that takes cross-sectional pictures from different angles. The gaps in the horizontal sections are filled and this allows doctors to view the state of the internal organs without performing surgery. 
• The cross-sectional images obtained provide details of the tissue cut’s thickness, pathology such as ruptures and abscesses, the size, shape and location of the tumors as well as the presence of other pathological or abnormal conditions. 

Types of CT Abdomen and Pelvis 

• CT Abdomen and pelvis scan is done with two types of CT scans, where one is plain scans without the use of contrast media, and the other is with the use of contrast agents. 
• In the UACT abdomen CT, oral, rectal, or intravenous contrast will be used depending on the region being assessed and the reason for the assessment. 

Consideration Parameters of CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain

• Imaging specialists focus on the organ aspects which include the liver, spleen, kidney, and even intestines with respect to size, shape, and location. 
• Should look for any lesions, significant collection of atypical fluids, as well as hepatomegaly or splenomegaly. 
• Alteration of the imaging settings may also be performed in the event that the patient’s age weight or other clinical factors warrant such changes. 

Reasons for Taking a CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain

• To investigate chronic unexplained abdominal pain or possible abnormalities found when clinically examining the patient. 
• To highlight any inflammatory processes such as inflammation can be found in appendicular regions and can lead to pus deposition in abdominal regions i.e. abscess. 
• For assessing the presence and effects of neoplasms in abdominal and pelvic regions. 
• For determining the damage sustained by internal organs and soft tissues due to the effects of mechanical injuries. 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain? 

• Patients with abdominal pain, abdominal distension, or abdominal bleeding of unknown origin can benefit from a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis. 
• Before and after surgical operations, it is also used to check the configuration of the body parts to avoid intra-operative & post-operative complications. 
• Certain populations such as patients with a history of GI tract diseases, patients with abdominal injury, or patients with cancer undergoing management wherever indicated may require this test often.

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Contains high-resolution pictures that can identify a much higher level of deviation from normal as compared to standard X-ray pictures. 
• It is an effective way that is less time consuming and is relatively painless enabling the physician to reach a definitive diagnosis in the case of multiple pathologies. 

Supports the effective early identification of patients as well as the timely planning of interventions which is beneficial to patients suffering from grave conditions. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain

• Acute appendicitis, bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, etc. 
• Presence of tumors, cysts and other types of unknown mass in the abdomen. 
• Inflammation caused by disease conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. 

Preparing for a CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain

• Some patients may be advised to refrain from eating for a duration of 2-8 hours prior to the scan with the aim of minimizing motion-related blurring of the images in case contrast material is used. 
• For all issues related to allergies, the doctor should be informed particularly in regards to any contrast materials allergies. 

Pre-requisites 

• Complete medical documents’ record and relevant prior images if there were any. 
• Some patients are required to put on a hospital attire and contraindicated items including metallic valuables which may impede the imaging procedure. 

The CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain is taken best at 

• As a rule, the scan is done in the days or weeks when the physic symptoms…and the physician’s clinical assessment make it necessary . 

Who Qualifies for Assessment Using CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain? 

• It can be said that, exposure to radiation should be avoided in pregnant women and young children; otherwise safe for most other people. 

Procedure for Taking a CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain 

• The person is moved with the help of a motorized sliding table in the CT scanner, which is apparated in the shape of a doughnut. 
• It is usual to have a radiologic technologist present near the machine who drives the scanner and speaks into the intercom. 
• Usually, the scanning is done within thirty minutes to about an hour. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Medical staff ought to be given a history of any present medical issues, for instance, that of the kidney which may affect the use of contrast media. 
• Those with a fear of enclosed spaces, known as claustrophobia, should make this known to the technologists, as certain enhancements or changes in the procedure can be made.