3D CT HIP

3D CT Hip Overview

Introduction 

3D CT (Computed Tomography) of the hip is an imaging method that gives three-dimensional representations of the hip joint, its surrounding bones, and the adjacent soft tissues. It is especially useful in determining complicated fractures, formulating surgical Orthopaedics plans, and assessing abnormalities of the joints. 

What is 3D CT Hip? 

A 3D CT Hip scan is done by employing X-ray beams and computer algorithms to produce detailed cross-sectional images, which are resolved into 3D models. These images enable clinicians to assess the hip joint via multiple perspectives which increases the accuracy of the diagnosis and the efficiency of the surgical procedure. 

Parameters Considered

• Alignment and overall congruity of the hip joint. 
• Bone density and structural integrity. 
• Fractures or dislocation presence. 
• Narrowing or deformity of the joint space. 
• Positioning of the prosthetic component, if used. 

Reason for the Test

• Detailed interpretation of injuries during traumatic injury. 
• Planning a total hip arthroplasty in advance. 
• Monitoring joint degeneration and arthritis on a chronic course. 
• Detect femoral head devoid of blood supply and bone cysts. 
• Monitoring post-operative results and complications 

When and Who Should Get a 3D CT Hip 

Indications: 

• Hip injury or suspected fracture. 
• Examination of ache or pain in the hip in addition to limited mobility. 
• Pre- and post-operative studies for joint replacement. 
• Evaluation of hips for developmental disorders. 
• Tumours or infections of the hips are suspected. 

Patient Demographics: 

• Old aged patients suffering from osteoporosis and chronic hip ache. 
• Sports persons with joint impingement or tearing of the Labrum. 
• Patients of hip replacement and revision surgery. 
• Deformed hips due to congenital disorders in children. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Offers high evaluation 3D cross-sectional views 
• Aids in deciding the course of action to be taken during surgery and surgical interventions 
• Rapid and not intrusive 
• Capable of Visualizing of some subtle fractures not detected by x – rays 

Conditions Diagnosed

• Fractures and dislocations of the hip 
• Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) 
• Avascular necrosis (AVN) 
• Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease 
• Bone cancer and infectious processes. 

Preparations

• Attire must consist of comfortable clothing free of any metallic objects 
• Arrive earlier for registration and signing of consent 
• Older reports or medical records should be submitted 
• If no fasting is required, apart from the case where contrast is intended 

Pre-requisites 

• Must be accompanied by a doctor or orthopaedic surgeon for referral 
• Advise the institution’s staff on allergies or kidney disease’s history (for use of contrast) 

Best Time to Take the Scan 

• On medical dispatch urgency or surgery timetable 
• Report aiming in early hours of clinic session 

Eligibility 

• Flat form safety for all excluding pregnant only if not justified 
• Certain kidney conditions deem the use of contrast unsuitable. 

Procedure of taking the test 

• Observational patient position is patient lying on the CT table 
• Alignment and immobilization of the hips 
• 5 – 10 minutes of scanning activity 
• Contrast would be injected through IV line if needed. 
• Stereolithographic reconstruction of the hip is performed in post-processing.  

Caution before taking the test 

• Remain motionless to maximize imaging quality.  
• Allergies, pregnancy, or implants must be disclosed to personnel.