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A computed tomography (CT) scan of the arm is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the arm.
Alternative NamesCAT scan - arm; Computed axial tomography scan - arm; Computed tomography scan - arm
How the test is performedYou will be asked to lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of the CT scanner. The arm being scanned will be held still with small foam pads.
Once you are inside the scanner, the machine's x-ray beam rotates around you. (Modern "spiral" scanners can perform the exam in one continuous motion.)
Small detectors inside the scanner measure the amount of x-rays that make it through the arm. A computer takes this information and uses it to create several individual images, called slices. These images can be stored, viewed on a monitor, or printed on film. Three-dimensional models of the arm can be created by stacking the individual slices together.
You must be still during the exam, because movement causes blurred images. You may be told to hold your breath for short periods of time.
The scan should take only a few minutes.
How to prepare for the testCertain exams require a special dye, called contrast, to be delivered into the body before the test starts. Contrast can highlight specific areas inside the body, which creates a clearer image.
Some people have Allergies to IV contrast and may need to take medications before their test in order to safely receive this substance.
Contrast can be given through a vein (IV) in your hand or forearm. If contrast is used, you may also be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4-6 hours before the test.
If you weigh more than 300 pounds, have your doctor contact the scanner operator before the exam. CT scanners have a weight limit. Too much weight can cause damage to the scanner's working parts.
Since x-rays have difficulty passing through metal, you will be asked to remove jewelry and wear a hospital gown during the study.
How the test will feelSome people may have discomfort from lying on the hard table.
Contrast given through an IV may cause a slight burning sensation, a metallic taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These sensations are normal and usually go away within a few seconds.
Why the test is performedCT rapidly creates detailed pictures of the body, including the arms. Reasons to perform this test include:
- Diagnose or evaluate a cancer or tumor
- Evaluate a mass that is felt during a physical exam
- Evaluate an abscess or infection
- Evaluate pain or other problems in the wrist, elbow, or shoulder joints (usually when MRI cannot be done)
- Guide a surgeon to the right area during a biopsy
- Identify or evaluate a fracture
Results are considered normal if the arm being examined is normal in appearance.
What abnormal results meanAbnormal results may be due to:
- Abscess
- Broken or fractured bone
- Cancerous or non-cancerous tumor
- Joint injury or problem
CT scans and other x-rays are strictly monitored and controlled to make sure they use the least amount of radiation. CT scans do create low levels of ionizing radiation, which has the potential to cause cancer and other defects. However, the risk associated with any individual scan is small. The risk increases as numerous additional studies are performed.
In some cases, a CT scan may still be done if the benefits greatly outweigh the risks. For example, it can be more risky not to have the exam, especially if your health care provider thinks you might have cancer.
The most common type of contrast given into a vein contains iodine. If a person with an iodine allergy is given this type of contrast, nausea or vomiting, sneezing, itching, or hives may occur. Let your doctor know if you have ever had an allergic reaction to injected contrast dye.
If you absolutely must be given such contrast, your doctor may choose to treat you with antihistamines (such as Benadryl) or steroids before the test.
The kidneys help filter the iodine out of the body. Therefore, those with kidney disease or Diabetes should receive plenty of fluids after the test, and be closely monitored for kidney problems. If you have diabetes or are on kidney dialysis, talk to your health care provider before the test about your risks.
Before receving the contrast, tell your health care provider if you take the diabetes medication metformin (Glucophage) because you may need to take extra precautions.
Rarely, the dye may cause a life-threatening allergic response called anaphylaxis. If you have any trouble breathing during the test, you should notify the scanner operator immediately. Scanners come with an intercom and speakers, so the operator can hear you at all times.
ReferencesMcMahon PJ, Tibone JE, Pink MM. Shoulder. In: DeLee JC, Drez D. DeLee and Drez's Orothopaedic Sports Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa:Saunders Elsevier; 2003:chap 21.
What else can I help you with?
Who invented the ct scan?
The CT scan was invented by Godfrey Hounsfield, an electrical engineer, and Allan Cormack, a physicist, in the early 1970s. They were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1979 for their work on developing the technology.
How safe is CTscan?
It's well worth the risk. If you are prescribed such a scan then you have something going on that your family doctor cannot figure out plus you must be in a lot of pain, therefore; the outcome is well worth the risk. Speedy62269
What machine is used to check the brain for swelling or internal bleeding?
A CT scan or MRI machine is typically used to check the brain for swelling or internal bleeding. These imaging techniques allow doctors to visualize detailed structures of the brain to help make a diagnosis.
Preparing for a Chest CT?
A CT scan can be used to diagnose a multitude of conditions that affect the chest. While these tests are not painful, preparing for the scan can put your mind at ease and make you more comfortable during the procedure. Wear loose-fitting clothes and remove any metal objects like jewelry, glasses, bobby pins and dentures before beginning the scan. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or suffer from claustrophobia.
What machine used to check the brain for swelling or internal bleeding is a?
A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a machine used to check the brain for swelling or internal bleeding. It creates detailed cross-sectional images of the brain using X-rays to help diagnose conditions such as traumatic brain injury or stroke.
Can you smoke before a ct scan?
Can I smoke before ct scan
What is pseudoarthritis?
I was told it is like gout,but instead of uric acid it has pyrophosphates. It can be anywhere in the body. I had a ct scan and it is in my arm and chest.
What medications should not be taken after a Contrast CT Scan?
There are no generally contraindicated medications after a contrast enhanced Ct Scan.
Preparation for a ct scan abdomen?
should you eat before having a ct scan of the chest and abdomen
What is the computerized x-ray imaging in the transverse plane?
CT scan
What does CT scan stand for?
cat scan
How much does it cost for a checkup at MRI scan and CT scan center?
A CT scan is about $300 to $6750, while a MRI scan is $400 to $12,000.
Would an abdominal CT scan detect an ulcer?
No, you cannot see an ulcer on a ct scan.
Is it possible to take ct scan of a child's brain?
Yes, it is possible to CT scan a child.
Side effects of contrast dye for ct scan?
Side effect of cervical ct scan?
How do you say CT scan in Spanish?
I looked your question up on google translate and CT scan is "Tomografia computarizada" but just CT is "CT" english to spanish
What is the red stuff in a CT scan image?
The red dye that is used in a CT scan is a contrast dye. The objective of the dye is so that certain parts of the body will show up clearer in an x-ray. Contrast dye is generally given by IV into the hand or arm.
