Scanning of the Abdomen/Pelvis

CT scanning — sometimes called CAT scanning - is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

CT scanning combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. These cross-sectional images of the area being studied can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed.

CT scans of internal organs, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels provide greater clarity and reveal more details than regular x-ray exams.

This procedure is typically used to help diagnose the cause of abdominal or pelvic pain and diseases of the internal organs, bowel and colon, such as:

• infections such as appendicitis, diverticulitis or infected fluid collections, aka. abscesses.
• inflammatory processes such as pancreatitis, pyelonephritis or inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease.
• cancers of the colon, liver, kidneys, pancreas and bladder as well as lymphoma.
• kidney and bladder stones.
• abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) and other diseases of the vessels such as blood clots and abnormal narrowings or stenoses of the vessels.

CT scanning of the abdomen/pelvis is also performed to:

• quickly identify injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys or other internal organs in cases of trauma.
• guide biopsies and other procedures such as abscess drainages and minimally invasive tumor treatments.
• plan for and assess the results of surgery, such as organ transplants or gastric bypass.
• stage, plan and properly administer radiation treatments for tumors as well as monitor response to chemotherapy.