Knee CT scans

What are Knee CT scans?

The process of taking a CT of the knee or legs begins by taking many different X-ray views at various different angles, which are then combined with the use of computer processing to create cross-sectional images of the bones and soft tissue inside of your body, including tissues inside of solid organ.

Ordinary X-ray testing does not show clear images of soft tissue, so doctors often request CT scanning to get a good image of soft tissue including organs, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, and the brain. Sometimes a contrast dye is used as it shows up clearer on the screen.

A quality CT scan of the knee will use multiple x-rays to make cross sectional pictures of the knee.

Reasons for a Knee CT scan:

CT scans of the knee are used for a multitude of reasons. They may be done to check for certain cancers in various different ways including to detect abnormal tumors, growths or lumps. They also identify the location of tumors, the stage of cancer, and where to perform a biopsy.

A knee CT scan can be used to guide doctors or surgeons during a procedure, such as a biopsy. They are important in planning for certain types of therapy and surgery, as well as in the aftermath to determine whether the patient’s body is responding to treatment.

CT scans can be used to detect cysts or infections in the knee. They can also identify the bone structures within the knee and can accurately measure the density of bone.

A knee CT scan is often used to quickly inspect a patient after an accident in order to identify traumatic internal injuries.

A Knee CT scan may help diagnose (find): 

A CT scan of the knee can diagnose a broken or fractured bone, cap or bone infection. It can also find bone tumors or masses, including cancer.

The test can help find the cause of pain or other problems in the knee joints.

A knee CT scan may help find a blood clot in the leg or knee as well.