Leg CT scan

You will lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of the CT scanner. Once you are inside the scanner, the machine's x-ray beam rotates around you. Modern "spiral" scanners can perform the exam without stopping. A computer creates separate images of the body area, called slices. These images can be stored,…

Some exams use a special dye, called contrast that is put into your body before the test starts. Contrast helps certain areas show up better on the x-rays. Contrast can be given through a vein (IV) in your hand or forearm. If contrast is used, you may also be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4 to 6 hours before…

Some people may be uncomfortable lying on the hard table. Contrast given through an IV may cause a slight burning feeling, a metal taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These feelings are normal and go away in a few seconds.

CT scan makes detailed pictures of the body very quickly. The test may help look for: An abscess or infection A mass that is felt during a physical exam The cause of pain or other problems in the foot, ankle, or knee joints (usually when an MRI cannot be done) A broken bone Masses and tumors, including cancer Healing…

Results are considered normal if the leg being examined looks OK.

Abnormal results may be due to: Degenerative changes due to age Abscess or infection Blood clot in the leg (deep venous thrombosis) Broken or fractured bone Cancer Damage to the knee, foot, or ankle joint Noncancerous bone tumor Healing problems or development of scar tissue after surgery

Risks of CT scans include: Being exposed to radiation Allergic reaction to contrast dye Birth defect if done during pregnancy CT scans expose you to more radiation than regular x-rays. Having many x-rays or CT scans over time may raise your risk for cancer, but the risk from any one scan is small. Talk to your…

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