Helpful in the diagnosis of knee joint disorders, degenerative changes, injury damage and inflammation is CT scanning, offered by PP DIAGNOSTYKA medical center in Poznan. This non-invasive imaging technique uses a combination of special X-ray equipment and advanced technology to visualize cross sections, with 3D reconstruction capabilities.
When does a doctor order a CT scan of the knee joint?
Allowing for more accurate imaging compared to classic X-ray, a CT scan of the knee joint can be ordered by a doctor for detection or precise evaluation:
- abscess or infection,
- bone fractures,
- cause of pain or other problems in the knee, especially when an MRI cannot be performed,
- Tumors, including cancerous ones,
- Problems with the healing process after surgery.
What makes a CT scan of the knee joint different?
Scans using a CT scanner are more detailed than general X-rays because they reveal more detail (they are fine-lined). The dose of ionizing radiation during examination of the knee joint by this method is minimal to the patient’s body. The X-ray tube and radiation detector move in a circle. This allows for multiple different views of the same structure (3D). The information is sent to a computer, which interprets it and displays it on a monitor in three-dimensional form.
What is the importance of CT scans in the treatment of knee joint diseases?
The non-invasive and state-of-the-art CT scan of the knee joint is used to quickly examine a patient after an accident or injury to identify internal injuries. It also identifies bone structures and accurately measures their density. It plays an important role in planning certain types of therapies and surgeries, and to determine whether the patient’s body is responding properly to the treatment given. The method can also be used to guide the surgeon to the correct area during a biopsy.