A detailed scan of the bony structures of the ankle joint with multiplanar and 3D reconstructions. It is the main method for finding ankle (malleolar) fractures, including hidden ones, and for assessing the joint surfaces.
- Duration5 minutes
- Contrastnot used
- Preparationnone
- Report30 min – 1 hour
What it shows
- Fractures around the joint, including intra-articular and hidden malleolar fractures
- Dislocations and subluxations
- The state of the joint surfaces and the width of the joint space
- Osteoarthritis, including post-traumatic
- Signs of arthritis
- Benign and malignant tumours
- Osteomyelitis of the lower leg or foot bones
- Foreign bodies
When it is recommended
- Ankle injury, a twisted ankle
- Suspected intra-articular fracture
- Pain, limited movement or deformity of the joint
- Assessing the joint after injury before reconstructive treatment
- Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and other connective tissue diseases
- Suspected tumour or osteomyelitis
- Clarifying the results of other examinations
Good to know
- Cartilage and ligaments are less visible on CT than bone; MRI is more informative for sprains and ligament tears.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.