CT SCAN SHOULDER

The computer tomography (CT) scan of the shoulder is a type of medical imaging examination that is done without the need for surgery. In this examination, X-rays and other body technologies are used to construct detailed images of the tissue structures, including muscles, as well as the shoulder joint. This scan is most helpful when diagnosing issues related to the shoulder, including dislocations, arthritis, and other tumours as well as for monitoring conditions. 

What is a CT Scan Shoulder? 

A CT scan shoulder is an examination that makes use of x-rays, and computer to visualize the shoulder joint and the surrounding tissues. To conduct the examination the patient must lie on a specific table that has to be fitted unto a large machine that resembles a doughnut. The machine does a rotation to the body while x-rays that are emitted sequentially pass through the shoulder. There are certain sensors that detect x-rays which are sent to the computer that builds the shoulder images based on the data received. 

Types of CT scan of Shoulder 

Types can be narrowed down to two main types of CT scan shoulder:  

• Non-contrast CT scan: This test is usually used in evaluating fractures and detecting deformities of the bone structures. 
• Contrast CT scan: This test employs a contrast dye to better visualize soft tissues and is generally utilized to look at inflammation of the joints, tumours, or infected tissues. 

The following parameters are considered by medical experts during the scan: 

• The alignment and placement of the shoulder joint. 
• The bone density and configuration. 
• Abnormalities pertaining to soft tissues such as tumours and cysts. 
• Inflammation of the joint or effusion. 
• Environment with fragments made of metal or other implants. 

A patient is often referred to undergo this procedure when he/she suffers from any or a combination of the conditions listed below: 

• Intense pain in the shoulder or restricted movement. 
• Possible fracture or dislocated shoulder. 
• Injuries to the shoulder like torn rotator cuff and damaged ligaments. 
• Osteoarthritis or any other form of degenerative joint disease. 
• Cancerous or noncancerous growths in the shoulder. 
• Abscess of the shoulder joint or the surrounding tissues. 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Scan Shoulder? 

The following situations or symptoms may need a CT scan shoulder: 

• Severe shoulder pain that inhibits movement.  
• Potential fractures or dislocations.  
• Injuries to the shoulder including torn rotator cuff or torn ligaments.  
• Arthritis or other degenerative joint diseases.  
• Tumour or cyst formation in the shoulder area.  
• Infections of the shoulder joint or tissues surrounding it. 

The following patient groups may need to undergo a CT scan shoulder:  

• Athletes or other people with a known history of shoulder trauma.  
• Elderly individuals having degenerative joint disease.  
• Persons having undergone previous shoulder surgeries like arthroscopy or joint replacement. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Some of the main reasons to consider CT scan shoulder are: 

• Correct identifying of the disorders affecting the shoulder. 
• Monitoring of the recovery/relapse process. 
• Evaluation of potentially harmful impacts/output such as inflammation of the joints or infection. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Scan Shoulder

Some common disorders which are now diagnosed through CT scan shoulder are: 

• Fractures or dislocations. 
• Arthritis or any other form of degenerative joint disease. 
• Torn rotator cuff and ligaments. 
• Shoulder tumours or cysts. 
• Shoulder joints or surrounding tissues infection. 

When preparing for a CT shoulder scan, these are the instructions that must be followed:  

• Arrive 30 minutes before the patient's appointment time.  
• Dress the patient in loose and comfortable attire without any metal.  
• Take off all metal items including jewellery and glasses.  
• Tell the radiology technician about all medical conditions such as kidney disease as well as any allergies. 

Pre-requisites 

The prerequisites above are in addition to the following: 

• Patients with kidney disease or any reduced kidney function may require a blood test to evaluate renal function prior to the imaging study. 
• Patients with a known history of allergy to contrast material may need to have a different method to perform the test or may need to take medication beforehand. 

Best Time to Take the Test 

The CT scan can be done at any convenient time but preferably when the patient is experiencing maximum symptoms. 

Eligibility 

Usually, the test is suggested for patients with supposed shoulder pathologies; however, the following conditions are exceptions: 

• Women who are pregnant or lactating unless medically required 
• Individuals with advanced stages of terminal kidney disease or significant impairment of kidney function 
• Individuals with a prior history of contrast dye allergy 

Procedure for Taking a CT Scan Shoulder 

The following procedures are to be carried out in the order of: 

1. Reporting and registration. 
2. Putting on a hospital gown and taking out metals. 
3. Lying down on a table that moves into the CT scanner. 
4. Remaining still and following the instructions during the scan's breathing phases. 
5. The overall duration of the test normally ranges from 15 minutes to 30 minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Prior to taking the test, the following should be completed: 

• The technologist must be informed on whether there are medical conditions like kidney issues or allergies. 
• Not eating or drinking for a couple of hours before the test is to be conducted, should a contrast dye be used. 
• Taking off any metals including but not limited to; jewellery, spectacles, and headgears.