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CT Scan of the Wrist (Upper Joint), With Contrast

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

A CT scan of the wrist that uses contrast to create detailed images of bones and surrounding tissues. It can help evaluate injury and other structural problems.

Quick summary

["This scan provides detailed images of the wrist joint and may help identify injuries or other structural abnormalities."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36810-0
Short code
Deprecated Upper joint CT W contr IS
Synonyms
Deprecated Upper joint CT 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 wrist CT is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed pictures of the wrist bones, joint spaces, and nearby soft tissues. The word "with contrast" indicates that a contrast material may be used to improve image detail.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate a suspected fracture, joint injury, arthritis, infection, bone lesion, or another structural problem. It may also be used to plan treatment or surgery.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table while a CT scanner rotates around the affected wrist and takes multiple X-ray images. If contrast is required, it may be injected into a vein or directly into the joint, depending on the specific procedure and the instructions from your care team.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the preparation instructions provided for your specific scan. Tell the imaging staff about any contrast allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy, or medications such as metformin, because these details may affect whether contrast is used and how the test is performed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Contrast-enhanced wrist CT

Frequently asked questions

Is a wrist CT the same as a standard X-ray?
No. A CT scan uses many X-ray measurements and a computer to create more detailed, cross-sectional images, which can show complex fractures and surrounding structures more clearly.
What is contrast in this test?
Contrast is a material that helps certain tissues appear clearer on CT images. Depending on the procedure, it may be given intravenously or injected into the wrist joint.
Will I need to stay in the hospital after the scan?
Most wrist CT scans are outpatient procedures and do not require an overnight stay. If contrast was used, observation may be needed briefly, particularly if you have kidney disease or another relevant medical condition.
  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