A scan of the lower ends of the forearm bones, the carpal bones and the wrist joint. It is best suited to assessing injuries and bone changes.
- Duration5 minutes
- Contrastnot required
- Preparationnone
- Report30 min – 1 hour
What it shows
- fractures of the forearm and carpal bones, after-effects of old injuries
- dislocation and subluxation of the joint
- inflammatory and degenerative changes (arthritis, osteoarthritis)
- benign and malignant tumours, metastases
- osteomyelitis of the forearm and carpal bones
- developmental abnormalities of the joint
When it is recommended
- wrist injury or suspected fracture
- pain and restricted movement after an old injury
- arthritis or osteoarthritis of the wrist
- suspected dislocation or subluxation
- suspected tumour or osteomyelitis
- preparation for surgery in this area
Good to know
- Ideally performed after a plain X-ray.
- For cartilage, ligament and muscle problems MRI is more informative; CT is preferred after injuries.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.