Can a pelvic/abdominal ct scan with barium and iv contrast detect back problems and sciatica?

Some: The Radiologist will definitely be able to see your spine. The images from a CT of the abdomen are not formatted specifically to look at the spine however. The test of choice to evaluate sciatica is an MRI.

Sciatica work up: Unless you are having problems with your GI tract, a pelvic/Abdominal CT Scan will not detect back problems or sciatica. CT or MRI of the spine, LS Spine x-ray, or EMG/Nerve Conduction studies are just a few of the tests used to evaluate Sciatica/LBP. Follow up with your PCM or an Orthopedic Surgeon if you are having chronic LBP or Sciatica symptoms. If you have GI tract problems, see a GI Doc.