A scan of the bones and joints of the hand and, to a lesser extent, the tendons, muscles and vessels. It is used in complex cases where an X-ray is not enough for a diagnosis.
- Duration5 minutes
- Contrastplease call to check
- Preparationplease call to check
- Report30 min – 1 hour
What it shows
- fractures of the hand bones
- dislocations and subluxations of the hand and wrist joints
- arthritis and osteoarthritis of the hand joints
- degenerative changes in bones and joints
- tumours of the hand tissues
- developmental abnormalities
When it is recommended
- need to clarify X-ray findings
- hand injury, suspected fracture
- suspected dislocation or subluxation
- arthritis or osteoarthritis of the hand joints
- preparation for surgery (e.g. fitting an external fixator)
- monitoring fracture healing
- suspected tumour
Good to know
- Injuries and disorders of the hand tendons and muscles are better assessed with MRI.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.