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CT Sacroiliac Joint with Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A CT scan of the sacroiliac joint that uses contrast to produce detailed images and evaluate the joint for disease or injury.

Quick summary

["This imaging test can help identify inflammation, fractures, and structural changes affecting the sacroiliac joint."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36123-8
Short code
CT SIJ W contr IS
Synonyms
CT SIJ W contr IS
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 sacroiliac joint, which connects the spine to the pelvis. Contrast material may be used to improve the visibility of joint structures and surrounding tissues.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be recommended for lower-back or pelvic pain, stiffness, swelling, or suspected sacroiliac joint disease. It can help evaluate joint inflammation, fractures, infection, alignment problems, and other structural abnormalities.

How is the test performed?

You will usually lie on a CT table while an X-ray scanner rotates around the area being examined. If contrast is used, it is administered according to the imaging team's instructions, and detailed images are created with a computer.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions provided by the imaging center. Tell the care team if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, have kidney disease, have previously reacted to contrast, or take medicines such as metformin, because these factors may affect the use of contrast or the preparation needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal findings may indicate sacroiliac joint inflammation, a fracture, infection, degenerative changes, or abnormal joint alignment. The results should be interpreted together with your symptoms, physical examination, and other imaging or laboratory tests.

Short name

CT sacroiliac joint with contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this test use radiation?
Yes. A CT scan uses X-ray radiation to create detailed images. The radiation dose is generally kept as low as reasonably achievable for the clinical question.
What is contrast material?
Contrast is a substance that makes certain tissues or spaces easier to see on imaging. Before the examination, discuss any prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, or medication concerns with the imaging team.
Will I need to stay in the hospital afterward?
Most CT scans are outpatient procedures, and you can usually go home the same day. The facility may observe you briefly after contrast is given, particularly if you have risk factors for a reaction.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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