CT Scan - Elbow (Left) Test

Elbow injuries are common in both adults and children. Early recognition and treatment of an affected elbow can reduce the risk of complications and later disability. The doctor may order for a CT scan of the elbow to make a detailed analysis of the internal structure. Compute Tomography (CT) is an imaging tool that combines X-ray with radiology to examine the discomfort in the affected area in a more detailed manner. A CT scan lets your doctor see the size, shape, and position of the structure deep inside the body. Serious injuries such as fractures or dislocations can damage the bones and other structures of the elbow, resulting in difficulty in movement, blood vessel function, and nerve function. A CT scan may be ordered if the following signs are indicated: Tears to muscles, tendons or ligaments, Masses, tumors and infections, Pain due to injuries following trauma, dislocation or fracture, and Inflammation of the joint.

The patient is advised to inform the radiology technician of any recent illness or medical conditions and/or if they are suffering from any heart disease, asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid problems, iodine or shellfish allergy. Any of these conditions may increase the risk of an adverse effect on the patient.

The CT scan will help the doctor do a detailed analysis about the abnormality in the elbow whether it is due to a fracture, dislocation or any other serious condition.

The test is performed by a radiology technician and the results are read by a
radiologist. Before the test:

Remove any jewelry and any other metal object
Take off or most of your clothes. You will be given a gown to wear during a
test
During the test:
You will be told to lie very still on the table attached to the CT scanner
A dye (contrast material) will be put in a vein in your arm or hand
The table will slide into the round opening of the scanner and move slightly
while taking pictures. You may hear a click or a buzz as the scanner moves
You may be alone in the scanning room. But the technologist will watch you
through a window. You will be able to talk to him or her through an
intercom.
A CT angiogram usually takes 30 to 60 minutes but could take up to 2
hours.

After the test:
You will be asked to drink plenty of fluids after the test to help you flush of
the dye injected into your body