CT Abdomen and Pelvis With and Without Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the abdomen and pelvis, with and sometimes without intravenous contrast.
["This scan helps clinicians evaluate organs, blood vessels, masses, inflammation, injury, and other abdominal or pelvic problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82679-2
- Short code
- CTA Abd ves+Pelvis ves WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Abd ves+Pelvis ves WO+W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct-angio
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis. It combines X-ray images with computer processing and may include images taken before and after intravenous (IV) contrast is given.
Why might I need this test?
Clinicians may order this scan to investigate unexplained pain, swelling, injury, infection, stones, inflammation, or an abnormal growth. It can also help assess organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, bowel, bladder, and blood vessels and may be used to monitor certain conditions or treatments.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a motorized table while a CT scanner rotates around you and creates X-ray images. If contrast is used, it is usually injected through an IV line in your arm; the scan may include images both before and after the injection.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center. Fasting may or may not be required, and you may be asked to drink clear fluids if contrast will be used. Tell the care team about any contrast allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy possibility, medications, or recent contrast scans before the procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The scan may show findings involving the abdominal or pelvic organs, bowel, blood vessels, bones, or surrounding tissues. Abnormal findings can reflect conditions such as infection, inflammation, obstruction, injury, stones, fluid collections, or a mass, but the images must be interpreted in the context of symptoms and other testing. Your healthcare professional should explain the results and discuss any follow-up needed.
Short name
CT Abdomen and Pelvis
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use radiation?
What is the difference between contrast and non-contrast images?
How long does the scan take, and when will I get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy