An examination of the humerus (upper arm bone) along its whole length. It is ordered when X-ray findings need clarifying: in complex fractures, suspected tumour or osteomyelitis, and for surgical planning.
- Duration5 minutes
- Contrastnot required
- Preparationnone
- Report30–60 minutes
What it shows
- Fractures, cracks and the position of bone fragments
- Haematomas and damage to surrounding tissues after injury
- Callus formation as a fracture heals
- Non-union (false joint) after a fracture
- Osteomyelitis
- Benign and malignant tumours, bone cysts
- Deformities, bony outgrowths (osteophytes), reduced bone density
- Tuberculosis of the bone
When it is recommended
- Suspected fracture or crack that is unclear on X-ray
- Planning surgery, fixation with metal implants
- Monitoring fracture healing
- Delayed fracture healing of unknown cause
- Suspected osteomyelitis or bone tumour
- Suspected tuberculosis of the bone
Good to know
- CT is usually done after an X-ray of the upper arm.
- The scan can be done with metal implants or an external fixator in place, although metal may partly distort the images.
- CT is more informative than MRI for assessing bone.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.