Anatomy of the clavicle
The collarbone is an even long bone that is part of the shoulder girdle. It is the connection between the axial skeleton and the human upper extremities. It is visible and easily felt. Despite its small size, it performs many important functions in the human skeletal system; it is the attachment of many vital muscles we use for breathing and moving our arms; it is part of the shoulder-clavicular joint, crucial for human motor skills; and it protects nearby soft tissues.
Indications for CT examination of the clavicles
Because of its location, the clavicle is prone to fractures, especially from overloading the upper limbs during exercise or carrying too heavy things with the hands. There are also conditions in the connections between the clavicle and other bones, primarily involving the shoulder-clavicular joint.
CT examination of the clavicles can also be performed because of:
- degenerative changes
- post-traumatic lesions and injuries
- Rupture or tearing of muscle attachments
- Cancer diagnostics, including primary and metastatic bone tumors
- inflammatory lesions
- foreign bodies
Preparation for CT examination of the clavicles
In the vast majority of cases, a CT scan of the clavicles does not require the administration of a contrast agent, is quick and completely painless. It is not necessary to be fasting or to determine creatinine levels and eGFR when performing this examination. It is necessary, as for any CT scan and examination with ionizing radiation, to bring a current referral for a CT hand examination.