CT Abdomen Without Contrast; CT Abdomen/Pelvis With IV Contrast
This order includes a CT scan of the abdomen without contrast and a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with IV contrast.
["CT imaging provides detailed cross-sectional images to help evaluate conditions affecting the abdomen or pelvis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87862-9
- Short code
- CT Abd WO + CT Abd+Pel W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Abd WO + CT Abd+Pel 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
- 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?
Computed tomography, or CT, uses x-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the body. This order appears to include a CT scan of the abdomen without contrast and another CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast given through a vein.
Why might I need this test?
These scans may be ordered to investigate unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain, fever, injury, or suspected problems involving organs, blood vessels, stones, or abnormal growths. The appropriate study and protocol are selected based on the medical question.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a table while an x-ray machine circles the area being examined. The scan without contrast is usually completed first; the scan with contrast requires intravenous placement so the contrast can be delivered into a vein. The scans are generally quick, and image interpretation is performed separately by a radiologist.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the facility's specific instructions, which may include fasting or temporarily stopping certain medicines. Tell your care team if you are pregnant, have kidney disease, or have had a serious reaction to iodinated contrast, and remove metal objects and removable medical devices as directed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CT findings may help identify or clarify conditions such as infection, inflammation, bleeding, obstruction, kidney stones, trauma, or a mass. The images must be interpreted with your symptoms, medical history, examination, and other test results, so an abnormal finding does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
Short name
CT abdomen and abdomen/pelvis
Frequently asked questions
Is this an x-ray test?
What is the difference between the two scans?
Will I need to stay at the facility afterward?
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