myRadiologist

Symptom

Blunt abdominal trauma

ConsiderationsRichard Wasley, MD

in unstable patients, emergency evaluation may use combination of xray to detect fracture and free air, ultrasound of the abdomen to evaluate internal bleeding.

in stable patients, CT is most important imaging modality for a general post-trauma survey. Oral contrast not usually required as initial study. Ultrasound and MR of limited value

§Suggested imagingIn listed order

  1. 01CT abdomen and pelvis with IV contrastCPT 74177
  2. 02CT abdomen and pelvis without IV or oral contrastCPT 74176
  3. 03CT abdomen and pelvis with IV and oral contrastCPT 74177