CT ABDOMEN AND PELVIS PLAIN

A Plain CT Abdomen and Pelvis scan is a fast, common, and highly valuable diagnostic imaging test used to visualize the internal structures of your midsection. At Cadabams Diagnostics, we utilize this advanced technology to provide your doctor with detailed, cross-sectional images of your abdominal and pelvic organs, bones, and blood vessels.

The key feature of this specific scan is that it is "plain," meaning it is performed without the use of an injectable contrast dye. This makes the procedure quicker and an excellent choice for specific medical situations, particularly emergencies. It is a completely non-invasive test designed to deliver clear insights into your health, helping your healthcare provider make an accurate and timely diagnosis.

What is a Plain CT Scan?

Computed Tomography, more commonly known as a CT scan, is a sophisticated medical imaging technique. It works by combining a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your body and using advanced computer processing to create cross-sectional images, or "slices," of the bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues inside your body. Think of it like looking at one slice of bread from a whole loaf—it allows the radiologist to see intricate details that would not be visible on a standard X-ray.

The term "Plain" in Plain CT Abdomen and Pelvis simply means that the scan is a non-contrast CT abdomen and pelvis. In many types of CT scans, an iodine-based contrast material is injected into a vein to highlight organs and blood vessels, making them stand out more clearly. However, for a plain scan, no such dye is used. This is often preferable for identifying specific conditions like kidney stones or internal bleeding, and it is a safer alternative for patients with kidney problems or allergies to contrast dye.

Types of Abdominal and Pelvic CT Scans

It's helpful to understand the two main categories of abdominal and pelvic CT scans:

• CT without contrast (Plain CT): This is the focus of this page. As discussed, it uses no injectable dye. It is the preferred method for detecting kidney stones, certain types of internal bleeding (hemorrhage), bowel obstructions, and fractures. Its speed makes it invaluable in emergency medicine.

• CT with contrast: This scan involves injecting an iodinated contrast agent into a vein, typically in your arm. This dye travels through your bloodstream, highlighting organs and blood vessels. It provides superior detail for evaluating tumors, infections, inflammation, and vascular problems.

The type of scan you receive depends entirely on the specific medical question your doctor is trying to answer.

When a radiologist at Cadabams Diagnostics reviews your Plain CT Abdomen and Pelvis images, they are conducting a systematic and thorough evaluation of numerous structures. Here is a list of key parameters they consider:

• Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder: This is a primary focus area. The radiologist looks for the presence, size, and location of dense calcifications, which are indicative of stones. This is why it is often called a CT scan for kidney stones. They also check for signs of urinary tract blockage (hydronephrosis) or abnormalities in the size and shape of these organs.
• Liver, Spleen, Pancreas, and Gallbladder: The size, shape, and density of these solid organs are assessed. The scan can reveal signs of injury, fatty liver disease, enlargement of the spleen, or visible fluid collections.
• Bowel and Appendix: The radiologist examines the small and large intestines for signs of a blockage (obstruction), which may present as dilated loops of bowel. They also look for inflammation of the appendix (appendicitis) or pouches in the colon (diverticulitis).
• Pelvic Bones and Spine: The scan provides clear images of the bones in the pelvis and the lower portion of the spine, making it excellent for identifying fractures, particularly after trauma.
• Presence of Free Fluid or Air: Air or fluid outside of the bowel or organs is an abnormal finding. Free air can indicate a perforated organ (like a ruptured ulcer), while free fluid (blood or ascites) can signify internal bleeding or other medical conditions.

Your physician has a specific diagnostic goal in mind when ordering this test. Key reasons include:

• To determine the underlying cause of sudden, severe, or unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain.
• To specifically confirm the presence of kidney or ureteral stones, measure their exact size, and pinpoint their location, which is crucial for treatment planning. [Link to: Kidney Stones Health Page]
• To serve as a rapid, first-line imaging assessment after physical trauma, such as from a car accident or a fall, to rule out life-threatening internal injuries.
• To check for a suspected bowel obstruction, a serious condition where the intestines are blocked.

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

Your doctor may recommend a Plain CT Abdomen and Pelvis scan for several urgent and non-urgent reasons. It is a cornerstone of diagnostic imaging in many clinical scenarios.

Common indications for this test include:

• Sudden and Severe Abdominal Pain: When the cause of acute pain is unclear, a plain CT can quickly identify potential issues like appendicitis, diverticulitis, or a bowel obstruction.
• Suspected Kidney Stones: This scan is the gold standard for detecting stones in the kidneys or ureters, providing precise information on their size and location.
• Trauma: After an accident or injury to the abdomen or pelvis, a plain CT is one of the fastest ways to check for internal bleeding or damage to organs and bones.

This scan is frequently performed in emergency room settings due to its speed and effectiveness. It is also the test of choice for patients who cannot safely receive contrast dye, such as individuals with certain allergies or compromised kidney function.

Benefits of Taking the Test

The Plain CT Abdomen and Pelvis offers numerous advantages for both patients and clinicians:

• Speed: The scanning process is incredibly fast, often taking less than a minute. This is critical in emergency situations where time is of the essence.
• Accuracy: It is widely recognized as the most accurate imaging modality for diagnosing kidney stones (nephrolithiasis), far surpassing traditional X-rays or ultrasound for this purpose.
• Accessibility: CT scanners are readily available in most hospitals and diagnostic centers, including at all Cadabams Diagnostics locations, ensuring prompt access to this vital tool.
• Non-invasive Nature: The procedure itself is painless. Apart from lying on the scanner bed, no needles, injections, or special preparations are required for a plain scan.

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Abdomen and Pelvis Plain

This powerful diagnostic tool can help confirm or rule out a wide range of medical conditions, including:

• Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)
• Ureteral Stones (stones in the tube connecting the kidney and bladder)
• Bowel Obstruction
• Appendicitis
• Diverticulitis
• Internal Bleeding (Hemorrhage) resulting from trauma
• Fractures of the pelvis, hips, or lower spine
• Abdominal Abscesses (collections of pus)

One of the significant benefits of a non-contrast CT abdomen and pelvis is the minimal preparation required.

• Instructions: In almost all cases, there is no special preparation. You do not need to fast (abstain from food or drink) before your appointment.
• Clothing: It is best to wear loose, comfortable clothing without any metal parts, such as zippers, buttons, snaps, or buckles. Jewelry, including piercings in the scanned area, should be removed.
• Gown: You may be asked to change into a hospital gown to ensure that no metal or dense objects interfere with the clarity of the images.

Pre-requisites

• A doctor's referral or prescription for the scan is necessary to proceed.
• As mentioned, no fasting or special diet is typically needed for a plain CT scan.

Best Time to Take the Plain CT Scan

There is no "best time" of day to have this scan. It can be performed at any time and is often conducted on an urgent or emergency basis, 24/7, depending on the clinical need.

Eligibility

Most individuals can safely undergo a plain CT scan. The primary contraindication is pregnancy.

• Pregnancy: CT scans use ionizing radiation, which can be harmful to a developing fetus. It is absolutely crucial that you inform the technologist if you are pregnant or if there is any chance you might be pregnant. Alternative imaging studies, like an MRI or ultrasound, may be considered.

Procedure for Taking a Plain CT Scan (The Plain CT Abdomen Procedure)

Knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety about your appointment. The plain CT abdomen procedure at Cadabams Diagnostics is simple and straightforward.

• Step 1: Check-in & Confirmation: You will arrive at our center and check in at the reception desk. Our staff will confirm your details and the doctor's order.
• Step 2: Preparation: A technologist will greet you and lead you to a private changing area if you need to change into a gown. They will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. You will then be escorted to the CT room.
• Step 3: Positioning: You will be asked to lie down on the padded scanner table, usually flat on your back with your arms raised above your head. The technologist will ensure you are comfortable.
• Step 4: The Scan: The table will slowly and smoothly move into the center of the CT scanner, which is a large, doughnut-shaped machine called a gantry. The gantry is open on both ends, so you are not fully enclosed. The technologist will be in an adjacent control room where they can see and speak to you via an intercom. They may give you simple instructions, such as, "Please hold your breath and don't move." It is very important to remain still during the scan to prevent blurry images.
• Step 5: Completion: The actual scanning process is very quick, often lasting less than 60 seconds. Once the images are acquired, the table will slide back out of the gantry. The technologist will confirm the scan is complete, and you will be free to get up. The entire appointment, from check-in to completion, typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Caution Before Taking the Test

Your safety is our top priority. Before your scan begins, please be sure to inform the technologist about the following:

• Pregnancy: As stressed before, you must notify staff if you are or could be pregnant.
• Recent Barium Study: If you have had a recent imaging study that used barium contrast (like a barium swallow or enema), the residual barium in your digestive tract can interfere with the CT images. Please mention this to our team.