Finding the right tests…
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Finding the right tests…
CT Scan
When a fall or accident leaves your hip painful and an X-ray doesn't clearly show a break, this scan is often the next step - CT of the hip joints is generally used as a second-line test for a fracture that X-ray might miss, and it's faster than an MRI, which matters when a decision needs to be made quickly. It's also used before hip replacement surgery, where cross-sectional bone detail helps a surgeon plan implant size and position more precisely than flat X-rays allow. The scan covers both hip joints in cross-section, including the ball-and-socket structure, surrounding bone, and nearby soft tissue outlines. It uses X-rays, not magnets, so it moves quickly.
This scan images both hip joints in cross-section, focused on bone detail - the ball-and-socket structure, any fracture lines, and surrounding bone quality. It's used to confirm a fracture an X-ray missed or to map the joint before surgery. Your doctor reads the images alongside your symptoms and exam findings.
X-ray is still the first test for a suspected hip fracture. CT comes in as the next step when the X-ray looks normal but the clinical picture still points to a fracture, or when a fast answer is needed and MRI isn't practical for that patient. CT is faster to perform and easier to tolerate for people who can't lie still in an MRI machine for long.
Before a hip replacement, some surgeons request a CT of the hip joints to build a three-dimensional plan of the joint's shape. Cross-sectional bone detail from CT lets a surgeon judge implant size and position more consistently than working from flat X-rays alone, which matters most in complex cases such as a joint distorted by long-standing arthritis or a previous surgery.
- Fractures not visible on X-ray - Fracture pattern and displacement, when a break is already known - Bone shape and quality ahead of joint replacement - Avascular necrosis and other structural bone changes
CT is not the most sensitive test for very subtle fractures - MRI can pick up findings CT misses. Ask your doctor whether MRI is a better fit for your situation.
X-ray sometimes misses a fracture, especially a subtle one. When the clinical picture still points to a break, CT is often used as the next test because it's faster to arrange than MRI.
It typically images both hip joints in the same pass, even if your pain is on one side, since comparing both sides can help your doctor judge what's normal for you.
Not necessarily - MRI can be more sensitive to very subtle fractures. CT is generally chosen when a faster answer is needed or MRI isn't a good option for you, and your doctor makes that call.
Detailed cross-sectional bone images help a surgeon plan implant size and position more precisely than X-rays alone, especially in a joint with unusual shape or previous surgery.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
Yes, CT uses X-rays, so there is radiation exposure. Your doctor weighs this against how much the scan will change your diagnosis or treatment plan.
Not always. Many hip CT scans for fracture or pre-surgical planning are done without contrast. Your doctor decides based on what's being checked.
Preparation depends on whether contrast is used and your individual health history. Ask your doctor or the centre for instructions specific to your appointment.
CT involves radiation, so it's generally avoided in pregnancy unless there's a clear medical need. Tell your doctor and the centre if you're pregnant or think you might be.