Severe Abdominal Pain — Go to ER
Severe acute abdominal pain, fever with abdominal pain, rigid abdomen, suspected appendicitis, vomiting blood, or major abdominal trauma requires emergency ER evaluation. Do not use DOD — call 911 or go to the ER immediately.
CT Abdomen and Pelvis: What Patients Should Know
CT of the abdomen and pelvis (CT A/P) provides detailed cross-sectional images of the abdominal and pelvic organs, gastrointestinal tract, vasculature, lymph nodes, and surrounding structures. It involves ionizing radiation and is commonly performed with IV contrast.
Educational content only. DOD does not perform or interpret CT scans. Acute abdominal emergencies require immediate ER evaluation.
Quick Answer
CT abdomen and pelvis creates cross-sectional images of the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, gastrointestinal tract, retroperitoneum, pelvic organs, lymph nodes, and vasculature. It uses ionizing radiation and is most commonly performed with IV contrast (and sometimes oral contrast). An eGFR test may be required before contrast administration. Provider orders are required. DOD can review CT A/P order requests for non-emergency indications for eligible patients in supported states.
Key Structures on CT Abdomen/Pelvis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- CT of the Abdomen and Pelvis — RadiologyInfo.org (ACR / RSNA)
- CT Scans — Patient Information — MedlinePlus (NIH)
- ACR Contrast Manual — American College of Radiology (ACR)
Related Education and Order Pages
Need a Provider Review for a CT Abdomen/Pelvis Order?
$40 virtual provider review for non-emergency CT orders. Acute abdominal emergencies require ER evaluation.
Start Virtual Consult — $40Not for emergencies. Orders not guaranteed.
Educational content only. DOD does not perform or interpret CT scans.