CT Scan of Hip Joints

A CT scan of hip joints creates detailed, cross-sectional images of the bones, cartilage, and soft tissues in and around your hips.

• What the scan shows: Tiny fractures, joint-space narrowing, bone spurs, fluid collections, and early signs of arthritis.
• How it helps in hip pain diagnosis: Pinpoints the exact source of discomfort, speeds up treatment decisions, and rules out serious conditions like tumors or infections.

Definition and technology

Computed Tomography (CT) uses a rotating X-ray tube and advanced detectors to capture multiple image “slices.” A computer then reconstructs these slices into 3-D pictures of your hip joints.

Why CT over other imaging

• Faster than MRI: Typical scan time under 10 minutes.
• Superior bone detail: Ideal for complex fractures or subtle bone lesions.
• Widely available: At Cadabams Diagnostics, slots are open daily—even after hours for emergencies.

• Non-contrast CT: Quick baseline scan for fractures or bone density checks.
• CT with IV contrast: Highlights blood vessels and soft-tissue inflammation.
• CT arthrogram: Contrast is injected directly into the joint to evaluate labral tears or cartilage damage.

• Bone density measurements
• Joint space width and alignment
• Presence of bone spurs or cysts
• Soft-tissue swelling or effusion
• Vascular patency (if contrast is used)

• Unexplained hip pain: Rule out occult fractures or early avascular necrosis.
• Post-injury evaluation: Assess complex pelvic or acetabular fractures.
• Monitoring arthritis: Track joint-space loss or bone erosion.

Signs that indicate the scan

• Persistent hip or groin pain lasting >2 weeks.
• Sudden pain after a fall or accident.
• Limited range of motion or a noticeable limp.
• Swelling or warmth around the joint.

Age and lifestyle factors

• Active adults (runners, dancers) with overuse injuries.
• Seniors with osteoporosis or arthritis flare-ups.
• Athletes needing pre-surgery mapping.

• Quick results: Preliminary report within 30 minutes.
• High-resolution imaging: Detects lesions as small as 0.5 mm.
• Guides treatment plan: Helps surgeons decide between arthroscopy, joint replacement, or conservative care.

• Fractures: Pelvic ring, femoral neck, or acetabular.
• Labral tears: Common in athletes and dancers.
• Tumors: Benign bone cysts to rare sarcomas.
• Avascular necrosis: Early bone death before collapse.

• Fasting guidelines: Skip solid food 4 hours prior if contrast is used; clear fluids are allowed.
• Clothing and metal objects: Wear loose, metal-free attire; remove belts and jewelry.
• Medication instructions: Continue routine meds; diabetic patients may need to adjust metformin—our staff will advise.

• Doctor’s referral: Bring a signed prescription or e-referral.
• Recent blood test for creatinine: Required within 30 days if IV contrast is planned.

• Morning slots: Ideal for fasting scans.
• Emergency 24/7 availability: Walk-in trauma cases accepted round the clock.

• Adults and seniors: All ages welcome.
• Pediatric considerations: Low-dose paediatric protocols for children >5 years.
• Pregnancy restrictions: CT is avoided unless absolutely critical; a pregnancy test is done for females of child-bearing age.

1. Check-in and paperwork: Verify ID, consent, and allergy history.
2. Positioning on scanner table: Lie flat, knees supported by a cushion.
3. Scan duration and instructions: 5–10 minutes; hold still and follow breathing cues if contrast is used.

• Allergy to contrast: Inform staff of iodine or shellfish allergies.
• Kidney function check: Ensure eGFR >30 ml/min.
• Pregnancy test: Urine test if indicated.

Radiation exposure

A hip CT delivers a low dose—roughly equal to 6 months of natural background radiation. Cadabams Diagnostics uses dose-reduction software to keep exposure minimal.

Contrast dye considerations

• Mild reactions (warmth, metallic taste) occur in <3 % of patients.
• Severe allergies are extremely rare; our staff is trained with emergency protocols.