Anatomy of the shoulder joint
The shoulder joint is the connection between the trunk and the upper limb, and allows the upper limb to move in three planes: flexion and straightening, adduction and adduction, and rotational movements. Thanks to this joint, we are able to perform so many diverse and fluid hand movements. In addition to the shoulder joint, the muscle tendons protect the shoulder from excessive movement and provide an attachment for the muscles.
The shoulder joint consists of the clavicle, shoulder process, scapula, humerus and the joint capsule. Unfortunately, because of its structure, this area is subject to frequent injury and trauma. Overloading caused by carrying weights in the gym or in life can cause the joint to pop, fracture or stretch or tear ligaments. The bones that make up the shoulder joint can also fracture.
Indications for CT examination of the shoulder joint
When an X-ray or ultrasound examination is not sufficient, we can successfully use a CT scan of the injured body part to diagnose the injury or condition. At our facility, we perform extremely accurate joint examinations described by a radiologist who specializes exclusively in joints, which guarantees a reliable description of the examination.
A CT scan of the shoulder joint can be performed to:
- Degenerative changes in joints and bones;
- Post-traumatic lesions and injuries to joints and bones;
- ligament damage;
- Bone fractures and breaks;
- denture loosening;
- inflammatory lesions;
- foreign bodies.
Preparation for CT examination of the shoulder joint
In the vast majority of cases, a CT scan of the shoulder joint does not require the administration of a contrast agent, is quick and completely painless. It is not necessary to be fasting, nor 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 CT hand examination.