Bone and Joint CT
Bone and Joint CT scans uses x-rays to create 2D and 3D images of the bone and/or joint architecture. Typically, a joint CT scan focuses on the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, or ankle.
Reasons for a Bone or Joint CT Scan
Your doctor or surgeon may order a bone or joint CT scan to help them plan for a procedure or therapy. The images can also be used to evaluate how your body is responding to therapy. Your doctor may also order a joint CT to:
- Look for fractures that are difficult to detect with ordinary X-rays
- Assess fracture healing
- Assess degenerative changes and check for loose bodies inside joints
- Check for abnormal tumors, growths, or lumps
Lower Joints vs. Upper Joints
There are two main groups of joints, upper and lower, classified by their location in the body.
Lower joints include:
- Ankle
- Knee
- Hip
Upper joints include:
- Wrist
- Elbow
- Shoulder
Duration
A bone or joint CT scan typically takes less than 1 minute to perform. Your entire visit should take less than 30 minutes.
Exam Preparation
Being prepared for your CT scan helps us take the best possible images for diagnosis. Please visit our exam prep page for more instructions specific to joint CT preparation.
