What is a CT scan of the bone and joints?

• Computed tomography is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standard X-rays.
• In a CT scan, an X-ray beam moves in a circle around the body. This allows many different views of the same organ or structure. The X-ray information is sent to a computer that interprets the X-ray data and displays it in a 2-D form on a monitor.
• CT scans may be done with or without "contrast." Contrast refers to a substance taken by mouth or injected into an IV (intravenous) line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to show up more clearly on the scan.
• CT scans of the bones and joints performed for all bones and joints of the body like (hip joint, knee joint, ankle joint, shoulder joint, upper and lower limb bones) can provide more detailed information about the bone tissue and bone structure than standard X-rays of the bone, thus providing more information related to injuries and/or diseases of the bone.

Why do I need a CT scan of the bone and joints?

A Bone or Joint CT scan may help diagnose (find):
• Quickly inspect a patient after an accident in order to identify traumatic internal injuries.
• CT scans can be used to detect cysts or infections in the body. They can also identify the bone structures within the body and can accurately measure the density of bone.
• A bone CT scan can identify abnormalities of the spine including scoliosis, herniated discs, or a narrowing or widening spinal canal.
• A CT scan of the bone allows physicians to examine bones, soft tissues, and joints to determine whether there are any damages, fractures, or any further abnormalities.
• A bone CT scan may detect tumors or masses that may be cancerous, that may require treatment, which is planned for using the scan. It will display location, size and shape of the tumor or mass.
• A CT scan of the bone or joint may diagnose diseases or infections. Osteoporosis is often diagnosed through a CT scan.
• Also used for follow up pre and after surgery as joint replacement operations

How to prepare for a CT scan of the bone and joints?

• You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam.
• Metal objects, including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and hairpins should be left at home or removed prior to your exam. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work. Women will be asked to remove underwire containing metal.
• Women should always inform their physician and the CT technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant.
• You should inform your doctor of all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies.
• Inform your doctor of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, and diabetes or kidney disease.

In case of contrast Examinations:
• You should not to eat or drink anything (fasting) for a few hours (4 to 6 h) before the exam, and do renal function test, inform your doctor or radiology technician if you have any allergies or kidney diseases.