What is a CT RT Shoulder Joint (Plain)?
A CT (Computed Tomography) scan of the right shoulder joint uses a combination of X-rays and computer processing to create detailed images. The “plain” term indicates that no contrast material is used. This type of scan focuses on evaluating the shoulder’s bone structure, joint alignment, and possible deformities.
It is frequently recommended by orthopedic specialists, sports medicine doctors, and trauma surgeons.
When is it Recommended?
Doctors may advise a CT Right Shoulder Joint (Plain) scan for conditions such as:
- Chronic right shoulder pain or stiffness
- Unexplained joint swelling or deformity
- Suspected bone fractures or dislocations
- Post-surgical evaluation of implants
- Degenerative bone diseases like arthritis
- Sports or accidental trauma
How is the Procedure Done?
- The patient is positioned on the CT table with the right shoulder immobilized.
- The scanner rotates around the shoulder, capturing multiple images.
- The entire process takes 5–10 minutes.
- No injection or dye is used, and the scan is completely painless.
After the procedure, the images are interpreted by a radiologist, who generates a detailed report to assist the treating doctor.
Benefits of CT RT Shoulder Joint (Plain)
- High-resolution bone imaging
- Quick and painless process
- No contrast-related side effects
- Detects fractures or structural abnormalities precisely
- Helps plan surgeries and treatment effectively
Preparation and Safety
No special preparation is usually required. You may be asked to remove metallic objects or jewelry. Since it’s a non-contrast scan, fasting is not necessary. Modern CT scanners use low-dose radiation, making the procedure safe and accurate.