CT LOWER ABDOMEN (INCLUDING PELVIS)WITHOUT CONTRAST

A CT scan of the lower abdomen and pelvis captures specific areas of interest through a series of X-ray images taken in a rotating manner around the patient. It provides detailed images of the internal organs, including the intestines, kidneys, bladder and reproductive organs, and helps in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions pertaining to these organs. 

What is a CT Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis)? 

Like all other types of CT scans, CT lower abdomen and pelvis scan is a non-invasive procedure that involves no incision, unlike open surgical procedures. The process starts with the patient lying down on a motorized table, which is then slid into a ring-shaped apparatus that contains the X-ray scanning unit. This unit rotates around the patient multiple times, capturing images from multiple angles. Sensors placed on the opposite side detect the emitted X-rays and relay the information to a computer capable of reconstructing it into high-resolution images. 

Types of CT Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis) 

The two types of CT lower abdomen (including pelvis) scans are as follows: 

• Non-contrast CT scan: This scan is used for diagnosing kidney or bladder stones and does not utilize contrast dye.  
• Contrast-enhanced CT scan: This scan is performed for suspicious lesions such as tumours or abscesses and uses contrast dye to enhance specific areas of interest. 

During the examination, medical professionals evaluate the following parameters: 

• The size and configuration of the organs and structures within the lower abdomen and pelvis. 
• Any form of abnormality, which includes but is not limited to tumours, cysts, or abscesses. 
• Any inflammation or infection, including its location and extent. 
• Any form of obstruction within the intestines or urinary tract. 

A CT lower abdomen (including pelvis) is generally ordered for the following clinical indications: 

• Appendicitis 
• Diverticulitis 
• Nephrolithiasis 
• Cystolithiasis 
• Ovarian cysts 
• Intestinal obstruction 
• Abscess 
• Malignancy of intestines, kidneys, bladder or reproductive organs. 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis)? 

A healthcare provider may order a CT lower abdomen (pelvis included) for the following purposes:  

• To Identify and manage progressive diseases such as:  
• Appendicitis  
• Diverticulitis  
• Nephrolithiasis  
• Cystolithiasis  
• Ovarian cysts  
• Intestinal obstruction  
• Abscess formation 
• For the diagnosis of malignant growths in the: Intestines, kidneys, bladder and reproductive organs.  
• To assess the reasonable change to preexisting conditions or treatment response.  
• For diagnosis of abdominal pain or bleeding of undetermined origin. 

At times, this test is recommended in conjunction with other diagnostic procedures, for:  

• Abdominal tenderness  
• Haematuria or diarrhoea with blood  
• Pyrexia with chills  
• Nausea with vomiting  
• Change in bowel movement frequency or urine excretion. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

A CT lower abdomen (including pelvis) has many advantages, some of which are: 

• Confirmatory imaging of pathologies of the lower abdomen and pelvis. 
• Timely diagnosis of pathologies which require prompt medical intervention. 
• Assessment of known condition and evaluation of treatment outcomes. 
• A fast and easy technique. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis)

CT lower abdomen (including pelvis) can identify a number of illnesses such as: 

• Appendicitis 
• Diverticulitis  
• Kidney stones  
• Bladder stones  
• Ovarian cysts  
• Intestinal obstruction  
• Abscesses  
• Cancer of intestines, kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs 

Patients should:  

• Refrain from bringing or putting on metallic items like jewellery, spectacles, and clothes with metal clasps.  
• Don loose-fitting attire.  
• Refrain from consuming food and drinks a few hours prior to the test.  
• Advise the technician about allergies and inform about any medical history and ongoing medications. 

Pre-requisites 

There are no specific requirements for a CT lower abdomen (including pelvis), but the patients must notify the technician about the following:  

• Current pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.  
• Allergies to contrast dye.  
• Chronic kidney disease or advanced kidney failure.  
• Some other medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease. 

Best Time to Take the CT Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis) 

The time for conducting this procedure is flexible, however, it can be easier to book an appointment during the morning or early afternoon. 

Eligibility 

A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is generally recommended for people who:  

• Have symptoms like pain in the abdomen, bleeding, or abnormal movement of the bowels and urination.  
• Are currently known or suspected to have some form of pathology in the lower abdomen or pelvis. 

Procedure for Taking a CT Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis)  

The exam generally lasts 30- 60 minutes and includes the following steps:  

1. Preparation: Some metal items are usually taken off by the patient themselves and the hospital gown is given to them. 
2. Positioning: The patient lies on the table which slowly moves towards the CT Scanner. 
3. Scanning: The CT scanner will rotate X-ray tubes around the patient’s body and X-ray detectors collect the images as slices which then undergo computerized reconstruction.  
4. Contrast injection: The patient receives an IV line in the arm from which contrast dye is injected if CT scans with contrast enhancement need to be done.  
5. Additional scanning: For certain additional scans, the patient will be required to turn their heads sideways and may be required to hold their breath. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients should notify the technician about the following: 

• Possible pregnancy or are pregnant 
• Allergies to contrast dye 
• Kidney disease or failure 
• Family history of specific diseases such as diabetes or heart diseases