Computed tomography of the sacroiliac joint
Anatomy of the sacroiliac joint
The sacroiliac joint is a flat joint. It connects the hip bone and the sacrum to each other. The surfaces of the joint are formed by the articular surfaces of the bones, covered by cartilage – fibrous (hip bone) and vitreous (sacrum). The stability of the entire joint is provided by the joint capsule covering both bones, as well as the fascia and ligaments of the pelvis.
Due to its anatomical structure and, more importantly, due to daily stresses, the sacroiliac joint is prone to a number of injuries and conditions. One of the most accurate methods of diagnosing hip joint pain is a CT scan. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure that uses ionizing radiation (X-rays) along with high-tech computer algorithms to create images from inside the examined area. In summary, performing the examination makes it possible to produce extremely detailed and precise images showing the interior of the sacroiliac joint and any pathologies that have arisen in its area. This examination is characterized by high resolution.
What are the indications for a CT scan of the sacroiliac joint?
A CT scan of the sacroiliac joint may be necessary for a number of complaints reported by the patient, including:
- Sacroiliac joint pain,
- Sacro-lumbar pain,
- mechanical injury,
- inflammation,
- signs of damage to muscles, cartilage, joint capsules or ligaments,
- rheumatoid arthritis,
- degenerative changes.
What preparations should I make for a CT scan of the sacroiliac joint?
In the vast majority of cases, a CT scan of the sacroiliac joint does not require the administration of a contrast agent, is quick and completely painless. It is not necessary to be fasting or to have creatinine levels and eGFR determined when performing this test. It is necessary, as for any CT scan and examination with ionizing radiation, to bring a current referral for examination of the sacroiliac joint on CT.