CT Forearm with Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan of the forearm using injected contrast to produce detailed images of bones and surrounding tissues.
["This CT scan uses intravenous contrast to help evaluate abnormalities in the forearm."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36185-7
- Short code
- CT Forearm W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Forearm W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a computed tomography (CT) scan of the forearm performed after intravenous contrast material is injected. CT creates cross-sectional images that show the forearm bones, muscles, skin, and other nearby structures in greater detail than a standard X-ray.
Why might I need this test?
A forearm CT with contrast may be ordered to investigate persistent pain, swelling, a suspected fracture, bone abnormalities, infection, a mass, or the effects of an injury. Contrast can help clarify findings involving soft tissue or blood vessels.
How is the test performed?
You lie on the CT table while the scanner takes images of your forearm. If contrast is used, it is usually injected into a vein before or during the scan. The procedure generally takes a relatively short time, and a technologist guides the process.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging facility. Tell the care team if you have had a previous contrast reaction, kidney disease, thyroid disease, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding. You may be asked about allergies and medications before receiving contrast.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The scan may identify fractures, bone lesions, infection, inflammation, masses, or changes in the surrounding soft tissues and blood vessels. The radiologist interprets the images in the context of your symptoms and examination, and the ordering clinician explains the findings and any recommended follow-up.
Short name
CT forearm with contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is a CT forearm scan the same as an X-ray?
Does the injected contrast make the scan radioactive?
Will I be able to drive after the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy