What Is CT Bone Scan, Reasons Which Require A Scan, & How It Is Done?
A CT bone scan is a special kind of x-ray that can provide more detailed information about the bones than a regular x-ray. This test is also sometimes called a CAT scan (computerized axial tomography). CT bone scans are used to diagnose many different conditions, including bone fractures, tumors, osteoporosis, and arthritis by obtaining detailed axial or horizontal images of your body. These images include the images of your organs, bones, fat and even muscles. It is also a powerful diagnostic test that can be performed to check for injuries after a car accident or other trauma.
CT bone scan is a completely painless minimally invasive diagnostic procedure which will take just a few minutes to complete. During the test, you will lie on a table that slides into the CT scanner. You will need to hold very still inside the CT scanner machine during the scan so that the images are clear. After the CT scan, you can go back to your normal activities. You may be asked to drink lots of fluids and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours to help flush the contrast material out of your body.
Reasons For Which A CT Bone Scan Is Usually Ordered!
A doctor will order a CT bone scan in order to assess your soft tissues, bones, and various bony joints to evaluate if there is any damage to these structures, fractures, or abnormal lesions which are otherwise not seen on a standard x-ray or can be determined by simple physical examination. It is the best diagnostic test to evaluate for the following:
Detect any bony disorders or defects.
Diagnose any infections or the extent of bony infection.
To see if you have any bony tumor and check for its extent.
To check if there are any bony metastases or spread of cancer of any other part of the body.
To assess the effect of ongoing treatment for conditions such as osteoporosis or cancer involving your bones.
What To Expect Before, During, & After The CT Bone Scan?
Before the CT bone scan, you will be asked to remove any jewelry or metal objects that you are wearing. You may need to change your clothing to wear a special medical gown to undergo the test.
During the CT bone scan, you will lie on a table that slides into the CT scanner. Once you are in the machine, the scan will take about 15-30 minutes. During the scan, you will need to hold still so that clear pictures can be taken.
After the CT bone scan, you can resume your normal activities. There are no side effects from the test and no preparation is required.
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If you have been ordered a CT bone scan, it is important to follow the instructions of your doctor. You may need to fast for a certain period of time before the scan, and you may need to drink contrast material. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies or other medical conditions, especially if you are pregnant in which case it is not advisable. If you have any queries related to a CT bone scan procedure, you can consult with experts at 1Health Medical Center.