CT SCAN OF LOWER ABDOMEN (INCLUDING PELVIS) WITH CONTRAST
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
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About The Test
A CT scan of lower abdomen (including pelvis) with contrast is a fast, painless imaging test that gives your doctor a detailed 360-degree view of your intestines, kidneys, bladder, reproductive organs, blood vessels, and lymph nodes. If you have unexplained pain, bleeding, or abnormal blood tests, this scan can pinpoint the cause quickly and accurately.
CT Scan of Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis) With Contrast Overview
What is the CT Scan of Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis) With Contrast?
The test combines X-ray technology and computer processing to create cross-sectional images. A special iodine-based contrast dye is injected into a vein in your arm. The dye highlights blood vessels and soft tissues, making even small abnormalities easier to see.
Key points at a glance:
- Duration: 10–20 minutes
- Positioning: You lie on your back on a motorized table.
- Noise level: A soft whirring sound; earplugs are available on request.
- Radiation: Low-dose protocols are used at Cadabams Diagnostics to keep exposure minimal.
When and Who Needs to Take This CT Scan?
Doctors frequently recommend the scan for adults and children who experience:
- Persistent lower abdominal pain or pelvic pain
- Blood in stool or urine
- Suspected kidney stones, appendicitis, or diverticulitis
- Unexplained weight loss
- Follow-up after cancer treatment
- Trauma after an accident
List of Parameters
The radiologist evaluates:
- Bowel wall thickness
- Liver, spleen, and pancreas texture
- Kidney size and cortical thickness
- Ureter and bladder diameter
- Uterus or prostate size and contour
- Lymph-node size
- Any abnormal masses or fluid collections
Why This Test
- Detect tumors or cysts in ovaries, uterus, prostate, or bladder
- Diagnose appendicitis, diverticulitis, or abscesses
- Stage cancers (colorectal, cervical, bladder)
- Guide biopsies or surgery
- Monitor treatment response
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Sharper images of soft tissues compared to X-rays
- Faster diagnosis: Results often ready within hours
- Non-invasive: No scopes or incisions
- Out-patient procedure: Return home the same day
Conditions Diagnosed with CT Lower Abdomen (Including Pelvis) With Contrast
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)
- Kidney stones and hydronephrosis
- Appendicitis and diverticulitis
- Ovarian or uterine cancer
- Prostate enlargement or cancer
- Abdominal abscesses or infections
Preparing for test
Pre-requisites
- Bring doctor’s prescription and previous imaging if any
- Wear loose, metal-free clothing
- Remove jewelry, belts, and piercings
Best Time to Take the CT Scan
Morning slots are preferred because:
- Easier fasting overnight
- Quicker access to follow-up care if needed
Eligibility
- Adults and children (sedation available for kids)
- Pregnant women: scan only if absolutely necessary and after risk–benefit discussion
- Kidney function: eGFR >30 mL/min/1.73 m² usually required
Procedure for Taking the CT Scan
- Check-in: Registration and consent form
- Contrast: IV line inserted; dye may feel warm for 30 seconds
- Positioning: Lie still; you may be asked to hold your breath for 5–10 seconds
- Scan: Table moves through the scanner ring once or twice
- Observation: 10-minute rest to watch for any delayed reaction
Caution Before Taking the CT Scan
- Fasting: 4–6 hours for solids, 2 hours for clear fluids
- Medications: Take regular medicines with a sip of water unless told otherwise
- Allergies: Inform staff about shellfish or iodine allergies so pre-medication can be arranged
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation/Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Bowel wall thickness | <3 mm, smooth outline | Normal, no inflammation |
| Liver density | 120–140 HU post-contrast | Normal blood supply |
| Kidney cortex-medulla | Clear phase separation | Good filtration |
| Ureter diameter | <3 mm, no dilation | No stones or strictures |
| Uterus size (females) | 7.5–8.5 cm, regular contour | Normal anatomy |
| Prostate volume (males) | <30 cm³ | Non-cancerous enlargement |
| Lymph nodes | <1 cm short axis | Non-pathologic |
Risks & Limitations
| Risk | How We Minimize It at Cadabams Diagnostics |
|---|---|
| Allergic reaction to contrast dye (<1 %) | Pre-scan questionnaire, on-site resuscitation team |
| Kidney stress (rare) | eGFR blood test before scan if you have diabetes or hypertension |
| Radiation exposure | Ultra-low-dose CT protocols, ALARA principle |
| False positives | Double reporting by two senior radiologists |
Types of CT Scans for Abdomen and Pelvis
- Contrast-enhanced CT: Most common; dye highlights vessels and organs.
- Non-contrast CT: Used mainly for kidney stones.
- CT enterography: Specialized for Crohn’s disease; you drink extra oral contrast.
At Cadabams Diagnostics, the radiologist chooses the technique best suited to your symptoms.
FAQs
How long does the CT scan of lower abdomen with contrast take?
From check-in to discharge, expect 30–45 minutes. The actual scan is only 10–20 minutes.
Is the contrast dye safe for people with mild kidney issues?
Yes, if your eGFR is above 30 and you are well hydrated. Our team reviews kidney function before proceeding.
Can I eat or drink before the scan?
Fast 4–6 hours before the appointment to ensure clear images and reduce nausea.
What happens if I’m allergic to the contrast dye?
Inform us in advance. We can give anti-allergy pre-medication or arrange a non-contrast alternative.
Is the Radiation from a CT Scan Dangerous?
We adhere strictly to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, using the lowest possible radiation dose to obtain high-quality diagnostic images. When a CT Scan of the Lower Abdomen & Pelvis with Contrast is medically necessary, the benefit of achieving a fast, accurate diagnosis greatly outweighs the very small potential risk associated with the radiation dose.