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CT Biphasic Pancreas

Last Updated: 2026-01-01 Author:


  • 1. Clinical Summary


    Series Phase Coverage
    Pancreatic Phase Delayed Arterial (bolus tracked+16s scan delay) Diaphragm to Iliac crests
    Portal Venous Contrast (70 sec delay) Diaphragm to Lesser trochanters
    • Pancreatic mass
    • Pancreatitis
    • Pancreatic cyst characterization
  • 2. Patient Prep


    • Position: Supine with arms raised
    • NPO Status: NPO 4 hours
    • Pre-Medication:
      • Water PO: 900 mL water orally 15-30 min before scan for gastric/duodenal distension
  • 3. IV Contrast & Injection


    Parameter Value
    Agent Isovue 370
    Volume 1.5 mL/kg
    Flow Rate 4-5 mL/s
    Duration 25s
    Timing Method Dual phase: Pancreatic arterial + Portal venous
    ROI Placement Abdominal aorta
    Trigger (HU) 150 HU

    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


    • TWO phases: Pancreatic phase (40-45s or bolus track) + Portal venous (70s). Water for negative contrast
    • Additional Recons: Curved MPR pancreatic duct. MIP pancreatic vasculature
    • 18-20G IV. Ensure water intake for duodenal distension

    Safety First

    • Renal Function: Verify eGFR > 30
    • Allergy: Check allergy history. Coordinate water intake
    • Pancreatic phase: optimal pancreatic enhancement and small lesions. Portal venous: liver and venous structures
    • Water distension of duodenum helpful. Thin slices for pancreas
Series Name Start Location End Location Delay Slice Thickness Notes
Scout Diaphragm Iliac crests N/A N/A AP
Pancreatic Phase Diaphragm Iliac crests 40-45 sec or bolus track 1-1.25 mm Thin slices for small lesions
Portal Venous Diaphragm Lesser Trochanter 70 sec 2.5 mm Standard PV phase
Plane Acquisition FOV Thickness/Increment Kernel IR Strength Notes
Axial Pancreatic Pancreas 1.5 mm/1.5 mm Standard 3 Thin slice pancreas
Axial Portal venous Abdomen 2.5 mm/2.5 mm Standard 3 Liver and vessels
Coronal Both phases Abdomen 2.5 mm/2.5 mm Standard 3 Pancreatic and peripancreatic
Curved MPR Pancreatic Pancreatic duct 1.5 mm Standard 3 Duct evaluation