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CT Chest Abdomen Pelvis with Contrast

Last Updated: 2026-01-01 Author:

  • 1. Clinical Summary

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

  • 2. Patient Prep

    • Position: Supine with arms raised
    • NPO Status: NPO 4 hours solids. Clear liquids OK up to 2 hours
    • Pre-Medication:
      • Oral contrast: 250-500 mL neutral (Volumen or water). Give 60-90 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

    • Single phase portal venous. 40 second injection. 70 second scan delay from start of injection
    • Additional Recons: Sagittal reformats optional
    • 20-22G IV. Verify renal function

    Safety First

    • Renal Function: Verify eGFR > 30
    • Allergy: Check allergy history
    • Portal venous phase optimal for solid organ and bowel assessment. Systematic review all organs
    • Arms fully raised. Neutral oral contrast preferred over positive
Series Name Start Location End Location Delay Slice Thickness Notes
Scout/Topogram Thoracic inlet Pubic symphysis N/A N/A AP and lateral
Portal Venous Phase Lung bases or diaphragm Pubic symphysis 70 sec 0.625 mm Single portal venous phase
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 CAP 2.5 mm/2.5 mm Standard 3 Chest diagnostic
Axial Renal Delay Abdomen 2.5 mm/2.5 mm Standard 3 Renal diagnostic
Coronal Portal venous Full CAP 3 mm/3 mm Standard 3 Coronal overview