CT Pelvis with Intravenous Contrast and Image Reconstruction
A pelvic CT uses X-rays and intravenous contrast to create detailed images of the pelvic bones, organs, blood vessels, and surrounding soft tissues.
["This scan provides detailed views of the pelvis and may help identify injuries, masses, infection, or blood-vessel problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79075-8
- Short code
- CT Pelvis by reconstr W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Pelvis by reconstr 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?
This is a computed tomography (CT) scan of the pelvis performed with contrast given through a vein. The scan creates cross-sectional pictures, and computer processing may reconstruct them into additional images for closer review.
Why might I need this test?
A pelvic CT may be ordered to evaluate unexplained pain or swelling, fractures, infection, inflammation, masses, or abnormalities involving the bladder, bowel, reproductive organs, and blood vessels. It may also help plan or monitor treatment.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a padded table while the scanner takes X-ray images from several angles. A technologist may inject an iodine-based contrast liquid into a vein to improve the visibility of blood vessels and soft tissues.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions from your imaging center; fasting is not always required. Tell the care team if you have had a prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, thyroid disease, or an iodine allergy, and tell them if you are or might be pregnant.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate a fracture, mass, infection, inflammation, bleeding, or a problem involving the urinary, digestive, or reproductive organs. The radiologist interprets the images in the context of your symptoms and other tests. A CT finding does not always mean cancer or another serious condition, so discuss the report with your clinician.
Short name
Pelvic CT with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is the CT scan painful?
How long does the test take?
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