Our abdominal and pelvic imaging services
Our radiologists use abdominal imaging to diagnose gynecologic and urologic cancers, liver disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and many other conditions. We also use imaging to guide biopsies and perform minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures such as embolization.
CT scans use X-rays to create three-dimensional (3D) images of structures inside your body. We may use body CT scans to diagnose diseases in your abdomen and pelvis such as urinary stones, appendicitis, and cancer. We use the most up-to-date equipment for faster, more accurate scans with the least possible radiation exposure.
A few of our specialized CT scans for the abdomen and pelvis include:
- CT enterography: provides a detailed assessment of the bowel for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): detects colon polyps and signs of cancer in your large intestine without the need for sedation
- Dual-energy CT scanning: uses two X-ray beams to produce more detailed images in less time and with a lower dose of radiation than standard CT scans
Radiologists, gastroenterologists, and surgeons work together to diagnose concerning symptoms such as gastrointestinal pain, bleeding, bowel problems, or difficulty swallowing.
Our GI imaging studies include:
- Barium swallow: uses X-rays to examine your upper GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, for issues like indigestion and vomiting
- Barium enema: uses contrast material and X-rays to evaluate your lower GI tract for rectal bleeding and colon diseases
- Defecography: uses MRI or X-rays to diagnose pelvic floor disorders such as constipation, fecal (bowel) incontinence, and anal or pelvic pain
Our multispecialty approach to genitourinary (genital and urinary) imaging means you receive the expertise of radiologists, urologists, gynecologists, and nephrologists, all from one source.
We offer a wide range of advanced imaging studies to diagnose conditions such as urinary incontinence, urinary urgency, blood in the urine, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Our interventional radiologists also use imaging guidance to treat blockages in your urinary tract like cysts and stones.
Types of genitourinary imaging we offer include:
- Kidney scan: nuclear scan that uses a radioactive tracer to evaluate kidney function
- Voiding cystourethrogram: exam that produces images of your bladder and urethra while you urinate
- CT urogram: CT scan of your kidneys, ureters, and bladder to diagnose stones, infections, and tumors
An MRI uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed images of structures inside your body. We use MRI and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) to evaluate cancer, cysts, and benign (noncancerous) tumors in your abdomen, pelvis, reproductive organs, and lymph nodes.
MRI is also useful for diagnosing conditions that may not show up on other imaging exams such as inflammatory diseases like cirrhosis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.
At Penn Medicine, your comfort is top of mind. That’s why we offer special MRI machines that accommodate larger people and those with claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces). These machines are available at imaging locations throughout the region.
Abdominal and pelvic ultrasound
An ultrasound is a quick, painless exam that uses sound waves to create images without radiation. At Penn Medicine, we offer 3D and 4D ultrasounds for better image quality. We may use abdominal or pelvic ultrasounds for:
- Assessing liver diseases like hepatitis B and C
- Checking the health of a fetus as it develops in the womb
- Diagnosing pelvic pain or uterine bleeding
- Measuring blood flow and locating blockages in blood vessels
- Screening for prostate and uterine cancer