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CT Shoulder

Last Updated: 2026-01-01 Author:

  • 1. Clinical Summary

    Series Phase Coverage
    CT Shoulder Contrast (N/A or 60s if contrast delay) Entire scapula to Proximal humerus
    • Shoulder fracture
    • Proximal humerus
    • Glenoid
    • Scapula
    • Rotator cuff calcification

  • 2. Patient Prep

    • Position: Supine with arm at side
    • NPO Status: N/A

  • 3. IV Contrast & Injection

    Parameter Value
    Agent None typically. Contrast if infection/mass
    Volume If contrast: 75 mL
    Flow Rate 2-3 mL/s

    Use full dose if GFR > 30

    If GFR < 30

    Max Contrast = \(2*\left[\frac{\text{Patient Weight}}{75 \text{ kg}} * \text{eGFR}\right]\)

  • 4. Special Notes

    • Include entire scapula and proximal humerus. Submillimeter for glenoid detail. Y-views for scapula
    • Additional Recons: 3D reconstruction. Neer classification if proximal humerus. Glenoid version measurements
    • No IV unless contrast indicated

    Safety First

    • Renal Function: N/A or eGFR > 30
    • Allergy: N/A or check allergy
    • Proximal humerus fractures (Neer). Glenoid fractures. Scapular fractures. AC joint. Rotator cuff calcifications
    • Include entire scapula. Submillimeter for glenoid
Series Name Start Location End Location Delay Slice Thickness Notes
Scout Include scapula Proximal humerus N/A N/A AP and Y-view
CT Shoulder Entire scapula Proximal humerus N/A or 60s if contrast 0.625 mm Submillimeter
Plane Acquisition FOV Thickness/Increment Kernel IR Strength Notes
Axial Shoulder Shoulder 1.5 mm/1 mm Bone N/A Axial bone
Coronal Shoulder Shoulder 2 mm/1.5 mm Bone N/A Coronal shoulder
Sagittal Shoulder Shoulder 2 mm/1.5 mm Bone N/A Sagittal shoulder
Oblique Shoulder Glenoid 1.5 mm Bone N/A Glenoid en face