CT scan of hip, knee, ankle, or foot with contrast

Procedure Information

What is a CT Scan of Hip, Knee, Ankle, or Foot with Contrast?

A CT scan of the hip, knee, ankle, or foot with contrast is a type of imaging test that combines X-rays and computer technology to generate a picture of bones and other internal structures. During this procedure, a special dye containing iodine is injected into the blood stream to make the organs or tissues being studied easier to see on the scan.

Why Would I Get a CT Scan of Hip, Knee, Ankle, or Foot with Contrast?

This procedure is used to diagnose problems such as joint inflammation, soft tissue injury, bone fractures, and other musculoskeletal issues. A doctor might also use this test to check for a structural problem, such as arthritis or tumours.

What Happens During a CT Scan of Hip, Knee, Ankle, or Foot with Contrast?

During the scan, the patient is asked to lie on a table and the dye containing iodine is injected into a vein. The table will then move through a donut-shaped scanning machine. X-rays are passed through the body which gives a three-dimensional image of the hip, knee, ankle, or foot being studied.

What to Expect After a CT Scan of Hip, Knee, Ankle, or Foot with Contrast?

After the scan, most of the injected contrast dye will pass out of the body through urine. Some people may experience a slight skin rash or itching, which usually disappears quickly. The doctor will have to interpret the scan results, so a patient may need to wait a few days for this.

Conclusion

A CT scan of hip, knee, ankle, or foot with contrast is a type of imaging procedure that combines X-rays and computer technology to generate an image of internal bones and tissue. A doctor may order this test to diagnose inflammation, fractures, and other musculoskeletal issues. After the scan, most contrast dye will pass out of the body via urine and a few patients may experience a slight rash or itching, which resolves quickly. The scan results will need to be interpreted by a doctor, so the patient may need to wait a few days to receive them.