A detailed cross-sectional scan of the elbow joint and the adjacent parts of the humerus, ulna and radius. It is most useful for injuries and bone disorders around the elbow.
- Duration5 minutes
- Contrastnot required
- Preparationnone
- Report30 min – 1 hour
What it shows
- fractures and cracks of the bones around the elbow
- inflammatory, degenerative and destructive changes in the joint
- osteoarthritis: bony spurs at the joint margins
- benign and malignant tumours
- osteomyelitis
- fluid, blood or pus in the joint
- calcifications and foreign bodies in the joint and surrounding soft tissues
- developmental abnormalities of the joint
When it is recommended
- elbow injury or suspected fracture
- pain, swelling or restricted movement in the joint
- arthritis or osteoarthritis of the elbow
- osteochondropathies
- joint involvement in systemic connective tissue diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
- pronounced signs of epicondylitis
- surgical planning and monitoring of recovery
Good to know
- Ligaments, the joint capsule and other soft tissues are usually better assessed with MRI; CT is preferred for bone disorders.
- Epicondylitis is visible on CT only when changes are pronounced.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.