CAT Scan of the Abdomen and Pelvis

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Patient Instructions 

St. Mary's Regional Medical Center
Dept. of Imaging Services
(207)777-8482

A CT of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast may require the use of  both oral and IV contrast so that good images can be obtained.  (If you have a computer, you may want to read more about this type of exam on the RadiologyInfo website.)

If you are 70 years old or older, a Creatinine lab test will need to be done BEFORE your CT exam. This creatinine test should also be done if you have a history of high blood pressure or kidney disease. (Test results within 30 days prior to your CT appointment are acceptable). 

If you have diabetes and taking any of the metformin formulas listed below, please do not take the morning dose on the day of your CT exam.

 

 

 Brand Name  Generic Name 
 1. Actoplus MET  pioglitazone/metformin
 2. Avandamet                  rosiglitazone/metformin
 3. Fortamet   metformin
 4. Glucophage  metformin
 5. Glucophage XR   metformin
 6. Glucovance  glyburide/metformin
 7. Glumetza  metformin
 8. Janumet  sitagliptin/metformin
 9. Metaglip  glipizide/metformin
 10. Riomet  metformin

 

 

Here are the steps to follow before your exam:

  • Obtain the oral contrast called Omnipaque 240 from your doctor’s office or if not available obtain from the Radiology Department at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center. Store the package in a cool, dark place overnight.
  • On the day of your CT exam, DO NOT eat any solid foods during the 4 hours before your exam. You should drink extra water.
  • One and half (1 ½) hours before your appointment time, pour one 50 ml unit dose bottle of Omnipaque 240 into 32 ozs. (4 cups) of cold water.

Suggestion: Use water with Crystal Light dissolved in it. (orange or lemon flavor)


 

  • One hour before your appointment time, DRINK all of the liquid mixture.
  • You can take your routine medications.
  • Please bring a list of your current medications with you to your CT appointment.

  • If you have any questions, call St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center's Radiology Department at 207-777-8482. 

 

 

Revised 4/08/09 DMK   

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