Computed tomography of abdominal cavity and small pelvis in Kharkiv

Computed tomography of abdomen and pelvis is a non-invasive diagnostic method that uses X-rays to produce an image using digital reconstruction. CT shows images of organs in different projections and angles that can be viewed in layers. Unlike CT, abdominal and pelvic x-ray are less informative because they show one-dimensional image.

Procedure of CT of abdomen 

To carry out computed tomography of abdominal cavity, the patient must lie on a special table in the tomograph and lie still during the diagnostics. During the examination, X-ray sensors rotate around the patient’s body, with the help of which the image is transmitted to the screen.

CT of abdomen takes from 5-10 minutes (without contrast agent) and to 15-20 minutes (with contrast agent). Immediately after the diagnostics, the patient receives its results. Only a doctor can interpret the examination results. Therefore, after CT of abdominal cavity, it is necessary to make appointment with a gastroenterologist.

Contrast CT of abdominal cavity in Kharkiv

To increase the information content of the diagnostics, a doctor may refer to the contrast CT of abdominal cavity. The clearest image is achieved through the use of a contrast agent consisting of iodine-containing preparations. The contrast agent quickly spreads along the vascular bed and stains the pathological areas, which are clearly visualized in the image obtained as examination result.

Depending on the area under examination, the contrast agent is injected intravenously, through the mouth, or rectally. To assess the condition of the liver, kidneys, pancreas and vessels of abdominal cavity, the drug is administered intravenously. When examining the large intestine (including rectum), contrast agent is injected rectally (through the enema). To determine the patency of digestive tract, the patient needs to drink a solution with contrast agent.

Organs included in CT of small pelvis

CT of small pelvis in women includes diagnostics of vagina, uterus and ovaries, and in men - prostate gland and seminal vesicles. In both men and women, computed tomography of small pelvis examines the following:

• bladder;
• rectum (lower part of large intestine);
• large vessels;
• nerve plexuses.

Preparation for contrast CT of abdomen and small pelvis 

Preparation for contrast CT of abdomen and small pelvis includes a special diet. Three days before the examination, it is necessary to exclude from the diet the food causing gas formation (carbonated drinks, legumes, dairy products, bran, peaches, pears). 6-8 hours before the diagnostics, you should refrain from eating and drinking.

Immediately before CT of abdominal cavity and small pelvic organs, it is necessary to take off metal objects from the examined area (piercings, clothing with zippers and metal inserts). You need to take with you an abstract from the medical record and the results of previous diagnostic examinations (if any).

Complications after contrast CT of abdomen 

Complications after contrast CT of abdominal organs usually do not occur. In some cases, there is a feeling of heat when the contrast agent spreads throughout the body, irritation at the injection site with intravenous administration of the drug and allergic reaction.

Contraindications for contrast CT of abdominal cavity are the following:

• pregnancy and lactation period;
• age up to 12 years;
• diseases of thyroid gland;
• pancreatitis;
• pathology of liver and kidneys in severe form.

To undergo CT of abdominal cavity and CT of small pelvic organs at the medical center “ON Clinic Kharkiv”, call the phone numbers indicated on the website or fill out the appointment form. Applications for CT of abdomen and small pelvis are accepted around the clock.