CT Scan of the Right Wrist with Contrast
A CT scan uses x-rays and multiple images to create detailed pictures of the right wrist. It may be performed with contrast to improve the visibility of bones and surrounding soft tissues.
["This scan provides detailed images of the right wrist to evaluate fractures, bone abnormalities, and surrounding tissues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69115-4
- Short code
- CT Wrist-R W contr IS
- Synonyms
- CT Wrist-R 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?
A CT scan of the right wrist uses x-rays taken from different angles to create cross-sectional images. Contrast material may be used to help certain tissues, injuries, or abnormalities appear more clearly.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this scan to evaluate a wrist injury, complicated fracture, bone lesion, joint problem, or persistent pain. It can also help assess nearby soft tissues and guide treatment or surgery.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table with your right arm positioned in the scanner. The CT machine rotates around you while taking images, which usually takes only a few minutes. If contrast is required, it may be given through a vein in your arm.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, including removing jewelry, watches, and metal objects from the wrist and arm. Tell the care team if you have previously reacted to contrast, have kidney disease, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or take medicines that may affect contrast use.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The scan may identify fractures, bone spurs, erosions, tumors, infection, or alignment abnormalities that are difficult to assess on standard x-rays. It can also show changes in tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other nearby soft tissues. The radiologist will interpret the images along with your symptoms, examination, and other tests.
Short name
Right Wrist CT with Contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is a right wrist CT scan painful?
Does this test use radiation?
How soon will I receive the results?
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