CT PELVIS

The CT Pelvis scan captures X-rays of the pelvis area and processes them with a computer to create images of the location's structures. Its organs included in the pelvic region are the bladder, reproductive organ, and rectum. This scan is predominantly used to identify adult kidney stones, tumours, or infections.  

What is CT Pelvis?  

CT Pelvis scan captures X-rays of the pelvic area and uses advanced computer software to produce cross-sectional images. During the test, one lies down on a table that is inserted into a horizontally positioned doughnut shaped machine. The machine captures images from different angles around the body, which are then pieced into elaborate portrait of the pelvis's interior. 

Types of CT Pelvis 

There are some categories for CT Pelvis examination such as: 

• Without contrast; using X-rays only. 

• With contrast: The use of contrast dye helps to describe specific structures better  

• Low-dose CT: Designed for follow-up appointments with lower dosage of radiation exposure  

• Spiral CT: Has a continuous movement that facilitates scanning detailed images  

List of Parameters Considered During the CT Pelvis

These parameters are considered by medical experts when performing the CT Pelvis:  

• Observed shapes and contours of the organs and their structures  

• Any set abnormal conditions such as masses or tumours or even stones  

• Organ perfusion and blood flow  

• Intensity of inflammation or scarring in tissue  

• Involvement of any lymph nodes  

Reasons for Taking a CT Pelvis

A CT Pelvis examination is ordered in the following cases:  

• Usually for the diagnosing or even checking up on kidney or bladder stones  

• Checking up on tumours or even cancers of the pelvic region  

• Severity assessment of pain or discomfort caused in the pelvic region  

• Injuries sustained in the pelvic region  

• Assessing effectiveness of the treatment  

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Pelvis? 

A CT of the pelvis is most often recommended for patients presenting with:  

• Abdominal or pelvic discomfort 

• Haematuria or blood in the stool 

• Urinary frequency or dysuria 

• Pelvic masses or abnormalities discovered on a physical exam 

• Possible renal or bladder calculi 

• Neoplasia or carcinoma of the pelvis 

Demographic categories of patients who may require a CT pelvis are:  

• Females complaining pelvic pain and irregular cycles. 

• Males complaining of prostate and testicular disorders. 

• Patients having past incidences of renal or bladder stone disease. 

• Trauma or suspected pelvic injury patients. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

The benefits of CT Pelvis include:  

• They provide accurate assessment and monitoring of pelvic illnesses  

• Early checking and diagnosis of tumour or cancers detected  

• Plan and track treatment targets effectively  

• It is a non-surgical type of procedure making it less invasive  

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Pelvis

Conditions that are the most common diagnosed with CT Pelvis include:  

• Kidney stones  

• Stones in the bladder  

• Tumours and cancers in the pelvic region such as ovarian, cervical and prostate cancer  

• PID or pelvic inflammatory disease  

• Diverticulitis 

Preparing for CT Pelvis

These steps are necessary before you take the CT Pelvis:  

• No eating in the 4-6 hours prior to the test.  

• Ensure to hydrate by drinking water.  

• All metal items, such as jewellery or glasses should be taken off.  

• Mention to the technician any medical conditions or allergies.  

Pre-requisites  

The following items are pre-requisites for the CT Pelvis:  

• An informed consent form is required.  

• The patient’s medical history and any allergies must be checked.  

Best Time to Take the CT Pelvis  

There is no specific time to carry out CT Pelvis, however some cases may require it to be scheduled at a particular time. 

Eligibility 

CT Pelvis gets suggested for most adults and children, though there are exclusions, such as: 

• Expecting mothers  

• Those with advanced stage kidney disease 

• Those with certain medical history (e.g., past experience of contrast agent anaphylaxis) 

Procedure for Taking a CT Pelvis  

The process of CT Pelvis is comprised of the following steps:  

1. Check in and get ready (15-30 minutes)  
2. Positioning the patient on the CT scanner table  
3. Adjusting the patient’s position and explaining the test procedure  
4. Performing the scan (5-15 minutes)  
5. After the test, the technician goes over the images and tells the patient what to do next 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Precautions that must or should be followed prior to CT Pelvis include:  

• Notify the technician of all medical health problems, allergies, or any previous reactions to the contrast agent (if any) 

• Take off any metallic items or jewellery 

• Not consuming anything for the suggested time