Elbow joint CT scan

CT of the elbow joint — is a method of radiation diagnostics that makes it possible to assess layer by layer the bones, articular surfaces and small intra-articular structures of the elbow. The examination is prescribed after injuries, in case of pain, swelling, limitation of movements or suspicion of a fracture, fissure, displacement of fragments or consequences of an inflammatory process.

At the clinic «Oxford Medical», CT of the elbow joint is performed on modern tomographs GE Revolution Maxima and SIEMENS Healthineers SOMATOM go.Up, which ensure high image quality with minimal radiation exposure. You can undergo CT in Kyiv on the right bank — near the «Dorohozhychi» metro station, as well as on the left — in Berezniaky. Make an appointment for the examination by phone or through the feedback form on the website.

CT of the elbow joint allows a detailed assessment of the bones that form the joint, the articular surfaces and their mutual position.

During CT, it is possible to detect:

• fissures and fractures of bones in the elbow area;
• intra-articular fractures;
• displacement of bone fragments after injury;
• free bone fragments in the joint cavity;
• consequences of improperly healed fractures;
• degenerative changes of the joint, in particular signs of arthrosis;
• bone overgrowths and deformities of the articular surfaces;
• congenital or acquired anatomical features of the structure of the joint.

CT is especially important in situations when it is necessary to assess the condition of bone structures as accurately as possible, clarify the nature of the injury or prepare for surgical treatment. In complex injuries of the upper limb, the doctor may also recommend additional studies, in particular CT of the shoulder joint, if there is suspicion of a combined injury of several anatomical areas.

CT is often prescribed after injuries of the upper limb, when it is necessary to clarify the localization and nature of the injury. For example, when there is suspicion of a arm fracture, the study helps to assess whether the injury extends to the articular surface, whether there is displacement of fragments and how complex the injury is.

Doctors of «Oxford Medical» recommend not postponing the examination after an elbow injury, since some intra-articular injuries may be unnoticeable during the initial examination, but later affect joint mobility and hand function.

CT of the elbow joint has few limitations. Before prescribing the study, the doctor takes into account the patient’s general condition and circumstances that may affect the appropriateness of performing the procedure.

The main contraindications are:

• pregnancy, especially in the early stages;
• inability to remain still during scanning;
• severe general condition of the patient, which requires an individual approach to the choice of diagnostic method.

In cases when CT is performed with contrast enhancement, the presence of allergy to iodine-containing contrast agents and pronounced kidney function disorders are additionally taken into account. The doctor makes the decision on the need for such a study individually.

Elbow CT does not require complex preparation. Before the procedure, it is recommended to:

• wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict access to the elbow area;
• remove watches, bracelets and other metal objects from the arm;
• inform the doctor about the presence of metal structures in the upper limb, if they were installed earlier.

If CT is performed with contrast enhancement, a blood creatinine test may be needed before the study to assess kidney function. Also in this case, it is usually recommended not to eat for 4–6 hours before the procedure.

During the study, the patient is positioned on the table of the computed tomography scanner, and the arm is fixed in the position necessary for scanning. It is important to remain still throughout the procedure in order to obtain the clearest possible images.

The tomograph performs a series of layer-by-layer images of the elbow area at different angles. Based on them, detailed images are formed, which allow assessment of the condition of bone structures and detection of pathological changes.

Scanning usually lasts only a few minutes and is not accompanied by pain or discomfort. After the study is completed, the radiologist analyzes the obtained data and prepares a written conclusion.

Based on the CT results, the patient can consult a specialized specialist to determine further treatment tactics. Most often this is an orthopedic traumatologist, who assesses the results of the study, clarifies the diagnosis and, if necessary, prescribes further treatment.

For CT of the elbow joint, the cost can be viewed here. At the clinic «Oxford Medical», the study is performed on modern tomographs GE Revolution Maxima and SIEMENS Healthineers SOMATOM go.Up, which provide high image detail. You can undergo the examination in Kyiv on the right bank — near the «Dorohozhychi» metro station, as well as on the left — in Berezniaky. To make an appointment for the study, call the contact center or leave a request for a callback on the website.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.

Sources:

American College of Radiology

US National Library of Medicine

RadiologyInfo, American College of Radiolog