Abdominal and Pelvic CT Scans

An abdominal and pelvic CT scan generates detailed cross-sectional images of your abdomen, pelvis, digestive system, and associated organs. This non-invasive scan is a powerful tool for diagnosing and evaluating a variety of conditions within the abdomen and pelvis, including:

Identifying inflammation of the appendix
Detecting the presence, location, and size of kidney stones
Investigating the source of abdominal pain
Assessing abnormalities in the liver
Identifying and characterizing tumors or cysts within the pelvic region
Visualizing inflammation in the bowel wall associated with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis

If you are experiencing abdominal pain, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits, or other concerning symptoms in your abdomen or pelvis, an abdominal and pelvic CT scan may be a valuable tool for your provider to reach a diagnosis.

Abdominal and Pelvic Pain

The human body is a complex machine, and the abdomen and pelvis house a vital network of organs responsible for digestion, waste elimination, reproduction, and more.

When you experience abdominal or pelvic pain, blood in your urine (hematuria), or other concerning symptoms, a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis becomes a powerful diagnostic tool. Here's how CT scans aid in diagnosing these conditions:

Diagnosing Abdominal Pain: Sharp pains, dull aches, and cramps are all forms in which abdominal pain may manifest. A CT scan can help visualize the organs within your abdomen, including the appendix, intestines, and gallbladder. This detailed view allows your provider to identify potential causes of your pain, such as appendicitis, diverticulitis (inflammation of pouches in the colon), or bowel obstruction.
Evaluating Pelvic Pain: Pelvic pain can affect both men and women and can be a source of significant discomfort. A CT scan can help visualize the pelvic organs, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and prostate gland. Examining these structures helps your healthcare provider identify potential causes of pelvic pain, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

CT scans can help diagnose and assess a number of medical conditions that may originate in the abdomen and pelvic areas.

Scans for Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that can form in the kidneys and cause excruciating pain, particularly in the flank (lower back on either side). A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis plays a vital role in diagnosing kidney stones.

They can effectively detect the presence of kidney stones within the urinary tract. This allows healthcare providers to pinpoint the exact location of the stone, which is crucial for determining the best course of treatment.

Additionally, a CT scan will determine the size of the stone, helping your provider assess if the stone may pass naturally or if medical intervention is necessary.

Scans for Liver Problems

The liver is a vital organ responsible for detoxification, protein synthesis, and many other essential functions. A CT scan of the liver offers valuable insights into its health:

Liver Masses: A CT scan can detect the presence and size of masses within the liver. These masses can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The detailed images also reveal the shape and density of the mass, aiding in further evaluation and diagnosis.
Liver Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease characterized by the scarring of liver tissue. A CT scan can reveal the extent and severity of scarring, allowing your healthcare provider to assess the stage of the disease and develop a treatment plan.
HCC Screening: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. For individuals at high risk of developing HCC, CT scans may be used for screening purposes. Early detection of HCC is crucial for improving treatment outcomes.

Urinary Tract Scans or CT Urogram

The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder), bladder, and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). A CT urogram is a specialized CT scan where contrast dye is administered to the patient before the scan to enhance the visualization of the urinary tract structures.

This detailed examination can help with:

Hematuria Investigation: Blood in the urine (hematuria) can be a cause for concern and can have various underlying causes. A CT urogram can help identify abnormalities within the urinary tract that may be causing problems such as kidney stones, tumors, or inflammation.
Urinary Tract Evaluation: In some cases, a CT urogram may be used to evaluate other urinary tract issues, such as congenital abnormalities within the urinary system or blockages that may impede urine flow.

Schedule Your CT Scan Today

CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis are a powerful tool in the healthcare provider’s diagnostic arsenal, helping them make informed treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals will work with you to determine the most appropriate CT scan for your specific needs.

Don't wait to get the answers you need.

Visit us at any of our convenient locations and our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and guide you through the scheduling process. To schedule an imaging test at any of our locations, please call us today.