CT Scan of the Colon and Rectum with Air and Contrast
A CT scan that uses air and contrast to create detailed images of the colon and rectum.
["This imaging test can help identify polyps, inflammation, narrowing, or other abnormalities in the colon and rectum."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60515-4
- Short code
- CT Colon+Rect W Air contr PR
- Synonyms
- CT Colon+Rect W Air contr PR
- 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
- CPT
- 86592
- 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) imaging test of the colon and rectum. Air and contrast help separate the bowel wall and surrounding tissues so abnormalities can be seen more clearly on the images.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test to investigate rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal symptoms, bowel changes, unexplained weight loss, or an abnormal screening examination. It may also be used to evaluate suspected polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular disease, narrowing, or a mass.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a table while a CT scanner takes pictures from different angles. Air may be gently introduced into the rectum, and contrast may be given orally or through a vein, depending on the specific examination ordered.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the radiology center's instructions carefully. CT colonography usually requires a clear-liquid diet and bowel-cleansing laxatives, while other CT protocols may have different food, medication, and contrast precautions. Tell the staff about kidney disease, prior contrast reactions, pregnancy, bowel obstruction, or allergies before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include polyps, inflammation, ulcers, narrowing, diverticula, or a mass in the colon or rectum. Some findings may require additional imaging, endoscopy, biopsy, or follow-up with your clinician. Results should be interpreted by a radiologist in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
CT colon/rectum with air contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine abdominal CT?
Is the test uncomfortable?
Will I need someone to drive me home?
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