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CT Abdomen Pelvis with Contrast

Last Updated: 2026-01-02
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  • 1. Clinical Summary

    Series Phase Coverage
    Portal Venous Phase Contrast (70 sec delay) Diaphragm to Pubic symphysis
    Renal Delay Contrast (300 sec delay) 1-2cm above and below kidneys
    • Abdominal pain
    • Oncology staging
    • Infection source
    • Post-operative complications

  • 2. Patient Prep

    • Position: Supine with arms raised
    • NPO Status: NPO 4 hours for solids
    • Pre-Medication:
      • Oral contrast: 900 mL Readi-Cat 2 over 90 minutes. Last cup 30 min before scan

  • 3. IV Contrast & Injection

    Parameter Value
    Agent Isovue 370
    Volume 1.5 mL/kg
    Flow Rate 3 mL/s
    Duration 40s
    Timing Method Empiric Delay (70s)

    Use full dose if GFR > 30

    If GFR < 30

    Max Contrast = \(2*\left[\frac{\text{Patient Weight}}{75 \text{ kg}} * \text{eGFR}\right]\)

  • 4. Special Notes

    • Ensure adequate oral contrast opacification. Scan from diaphragm through pubic symphysis. 70 second delay typical
    • Additional Recons: Thin slice 1mm for 3D if mass identified
    • 20-22G IV required. Verify patent IV. Oral contrast 250-500mL water before scan.

    Safety First

    • Renal Function: Verify eGFR > 30
    • Allergy: Check allergy history. Pre-medicate if prior reaction
    • Systematic review of all solid organs. Check for free fluid/air. Assess bowel enhancement pattern
    • Arms raised completely. Remove all metal objects from scan range
Series Name Start Location End Location Delay Slice Thickness Notes
Scout/Topogram Diaphragm Pubic symphysis N/A N/A AP and lateral
Portal Venous Phase Diaphragm Lesser trochanters 70 sec 0.625 mm Standard portal venous timing
Renal Delay 1-2cm above kidneys 1-2cm below kidneys 300 sec 0.625 mm Renal Delay series
Plane Acquisition FOV Thickness/Increment Kernel IR Strength Notes
Axial Portal venous Abdomen 3 mm/3 mm Standard 3 Primary diagnostic series
Axial Renal Delay Abdomen 3 mm/3 mm Standard 3 Renal Delay series
Coronal Portal venous Full AP 3 mm/3 mm Standard 3 Coronal reformats for overview
Sagittal Portal venous Full AP 3 mm/3 mm Standard 3 Sagittal reformats for bowel loops