CT abdomen and pelvis with IV and oral contrast

Strengths

great for acute abdominal pain workup. >96% sensitive for etiology. Oral contrast generally NOT needed unless recent surgery, chronic symptoms (> 3-5 days), tumor evaluation or in thin patients (helps to delineate bowel loops and mesentery).

Limitations

Consider ultrasound first for: high suspicion of gallbladder/biliary disease; women with suspected adnexal pathology; children. CT better if suspected bowel, mesenteric or retroperitoneal etiology and provides more "complete" view overall.

Contraindications

1) Allergy to contrast, but we will premedicate patient as necessary; 2) IV contrast will be dose-adjusted dependent upon creatinine clearance.

To schedule, call Orange Coast or Saddleback Medical Center — numbers on the contact page.

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