CT Shoulder With Contrast
A CT scan uses X-rays and contrast to create detailed images of the shoulder, helping evaluate bones and soft tissues.
["This scan provides detailed images of the shoulder and may help identify fractures, joint abnormalities, masses, or other structural problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87884-3
- Short code
- CT Shoulder-Bl W contr IS
- Synonyms
- CT Shoulder-Bl W contr IS
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.4
- Ref high
- 4
- Critical range
- 0.1 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- CPT
- 84443
- SNOMED
- 301343003
- 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?
A shoulder CT with contrast is an imaging study that uses X-rays and contrast material to produce detailed pictures of the shoulder. It can show the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this scan to investigate persistent shoulder pain, swelling, or reduced movement. It may help evaluate a complex fracture, joint problem, bone irregularity, or a suspicious mass when other imaging is not sufficient.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table while a CT scanner takes X-ray images from different angles. If contrast is given through a vein, you may feel a brief warm or cool sensation when it is injected, and you will be asked to remain still during the scan.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center. Fasting is generally not required unless specified, but you may need to avoid food and drinks for a short period if intravenous contrast will be used. Tell the care team about kidney problems, prior contrast reactions, allergies, pregnancy, or any implanted medical devices.
Reference range
Adult: 0.4-4.0 mIU/LN/A
Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include a fracture, joint degeneration, a bone lesion, tendon or muscle injury, fluid collection, or another structural abnormality. The scan findings should be interpreted by a radiologist and considered alongside your symptoms, physical examination, and other tests. A contrast-related kidney problem is also possible in people with relevant risk factors.
Short name
Contrast-enhanced shoulder CT
Frequently asked questions
Is a CT scan with contrast the same as an MRI?
Will I need to have blood drawn?
How soon will the results be available?
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