Musculoskeletal CT

What is a Musculoskeletal CT?

A Musculoskeletal CT focuses on your extremities and spine and is used to help diagnose the cause of pains or symptoms.

Whether to evaluate fractures, joint and extremity pain or neck and back pain, you can count on the most advanced CT imaging equipment and a team of experienced Radiologists to provide a complete diagnosis of the injury or pathology or both quickly and painlessly, so your physician can prescribe the most effective treatment plan for you.

Common Questions

Why would my physician recommend a Musculoskeletal CT?

If you are having unexplained pain in your joints, necks, shoulders or back your physician may refer you for a Musculoskeletal CT to help diagnose its cause.
What should I expect during a Musculoskeletal CT?

If this is your first CT, you may not be sure what to expect. Not to worry, we are here to guide you every step of the way. This test is relatively quick and painless. During a Musculoskeletal CT, you will lie on the padded scanner table. You will be asked to hold very still as the table moves through the CT scanner, capturing images. You may hear a humming sound from inside the machine. A contrast agent may be given to you intravenously for the exam. The Technologist will be in the adjacent room operating the scanner, but will be able to hear and communicate with you throughout the exam. The entire test takes just a few minutes.
How is a CT scan different from an X-ray?

Like Traditional X-rays, a CT scan produces multiple images of the inside of your body. However, unlike Traditional X-rays, the images generated during a CT scan are cross-sectional and can be reformatted in multiple planes and turned into a three-dimensional image. CT images typically provide greater detail than Traditional X-rays, particularly when looking at bones in great detail.
How do I schedule a Musculoskeletal CT with Fairfax Radiology?

Contact our Scheduling Department for an appointment:

Phone: 703.698.4488 Monday through Friday 8am to 6pm

Fax: 703.698.0864

Or click here to make an appointment request

Please have your written physician order and your insurance card in hand when making your appointment.
When are appointments offered for Musculoskeletal CT?

For your convenience, appointments are available mornings, afternoons, evenings and weekends at the locations listed below. Learn more about each location.