What is a pelvic CT scan?

Pelvic computer tomography (CT) is a imaging modality used to explore parts of the body located in the pelvic area. This technique uses ionizing radiation to create several two -dimensional images of this body area. Diseases or symptoms involving gastrointestinal tract, female reproductive organs, kidneys or blood vessels can be evaluated using this imaging technique. Although this radiographic procedure can provide important information, it exposes patients to harmful radiation and can cause kidney problems if used together with intravenous contrast material. It uses the same technology as an X -ray machine, but instead of providing one image, it provides multiple images located at certain levels in the body. Traditionally, the pelvic CT scan will provide images that go beyond the human body and generate consecutive images starting in the area of ​​the body around Umbilicus and continuing down to the top of the thighs. Interpretation of these numerous two -dimensional figuresAZs allow radiologists or other health care providers to concept to three -dimensional structures present in this area of ​​the body.

Many different symptoms and diseases can be evaluated using pelvic CT scanning. Various abdominal complaints - including abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and convulsions - can be evaluated using this imaging technique and can diagnose conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulosis, colitis and pancreatitis. The method is useful for exploring the pathology of the female reproductive tract, including inflammatory pelvic disease, fibroids or ovarian cysts. The kidney stones can also be visualized using this imaging technique. Even large blood vessels such as aorta can be evaluated by this radiographic method and conditions such as stenosis, aneurysms, dissection, atherosclerosis and thrombosis can be diagnosed.

There are some negative side effects that areThey can discover scanning when obtaining the pelvic CT, and this radiographic technique cannot be performed in all individuals. This technique uses ionizing radiation that can cause cumulative damage to patients exposed over time. Patients who repeat CT scan could have an increased risk of developing various cancer. The imaging technique often uses intravenous contrast to better visualize the body structures. Unfortunately, this contrast is toxic to the kidneys, so it should be used with caution in patients with basic renal insufficiency.