CT/contrast-low GFR-blood test time?

[Lynne0762]

CT with contrast is the problem. I need one. If your GFR is lower than 45 you need hydration but some places test you on the spot and some test you earlier. Some countries recommend getting blood work done within 24 hours before the CT with contrast. I've gone there, tested too low for contrast and had to leave. Is it OK to wait 48 hours before the CT? What's your experience if I may ask please. OH and the second site said they accept blood work up to 6 weeks! I've always found talking to people about a health issue gets you more information than elsewhere. I really appreciate any comments. I don't take this as medical advise....just wanted to know how long you've waited if at all between the GFR test and the contrast. Sorry to be so winded. Alot's going on lately. Thanks much.

[Beads]

I have kidney issues because of removal of a cancerous kidney. I have CTs with contrast to check there’s no cancer left/come back. Note I’m only 16 months from diagnosis so it’s not that much history.

I have a form for the hospital blood tests. This says get the test done by X date. Once the hospital has the results for the test they book the CT. Last December there was 3 or 4 weeks between the blood test and the scan. I don’t know if the same applies if you have CKD, but my levels shouldn’t change much over a period of about a month.

It probably varies, each hospital will have their own system.

[Marvin8]

You might want to look up beet juice and how it pertains to CT scan contrast dye.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

I had contrast given to me when my GFR was in the 30's. they said to just drink water to flush. Last time I had to have a CT scan, I was stage 5 and then did the test without contrast and saw what they needed to see.

[Darlenia]

My hubby's cardiologist had his earlier labs on hand - the doctors and hospitals in our area use MyChart which makes all medical records available online to everyone with a need to know. My husband doesn't recall any special order for additional tests prior to his cardiac scan and stent. Even though my hubby was on dialysis, we asked his cardiologist and anesthesiologist to preserve as much of his residual kidney function as possible. So the surgeon reduced the amount of CT contrast needed - he noted that still provided enough definition to identify issues, place a stent, etc. Throughout his entire stay he had an IV providing fluids; he doesn't recall a request to increase his intake of water before or after. His lab numbers were unchanged following the procedure.

[Jwbak]

I had a full nephrectomy for my left kidney due to a cancer tumor. I had complications and went into acute kidney injury for my other kidney and had to have multiple CT scans at that time due to an open artery when my GFR was about 6.

6 months out my Urologist wanted a high contrast scan which I refused because I was reading about high contrast effects on the kidney and my GFR was and is 30.

He told me at the time that they have improved the contrast fluid quite a bit and it is very rare to have any issues. He suggested I get an MRI for my next scan in 6 months. I didn't clarify but I assume the constrast fluid has less impact on the kidney.

I never had any discussion with anyone about increasing my water intake or anything. I think they may have just told me to drink more water after my scan, but didn't stress the importance of it.

I'm not sure what to make of it all but just sharing my experience.

[Green306]

I had CT with contrast. My bloodwork was done and I waited for results. I then got IV fluids before the scan.