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.