Computed tomography of the sacroiliac joints
Sacroiliac Joint CT Scan in Casablanca
The sacroiliac joints connect the sacrum (the triangular bone at the bottom of the spine) to the two pelvic bones, one on each side, at the level of the buttocks. A sacroiliac joint CT scan uses X-rays to show the bone surfaces of these joints in detail. It can show erosions, fusion of the joint, osteoarthritis or a fracture of the sacrum. It is often prescribed by a rheumatologist, in addition to an X-ray or an MRI, to investigate pain in the buttocks or the lower back.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
The exam usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, with the image acquisition itself taking only a few seconds.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE Revolution
When is this exam needed?
- Pain in the buttocks or the lower back, especially at night or on waking, suggesting spondyloarthritis (an inflammatory rheumatic disease).
- X-ray or MRI of the sacroiliac joints that is difficult to interpret.
- Suspected fracture of the sacrum after a fall or in case of fragile bones (osteoporosis).
- Pain in only one sacroiliac joint, for example after an injury or childbirth.
- Localization before a CT-guided injection into the joint.
How the exam is done
You remove your pants, belt and any metal object at hip level; you may be offered a gown. You lie on your back, legs stretched out, arms crossed over your chest.
The radiographer checks that your pelvis is perfectly straight, without rotation, so that the two joints can be compared symmetrically. The area examined is short and centered on the back of the pelvis, which limits exposure. You breathe normally and stay still during the few seconds it takes to pass through the ring. The exam is painless, although the position may bring back pain in the buttocks: say so, as a cushion under your knees may relieve you. You can then get dressed and return to your usual activities.
Preparation
- Remove your belt, pants with rivets and metal objects from your back pockets.
- Continue your usual anti-inflammatory treatment, unless your rheumatologist advises otherwise.
Fasting
No fasting is needed, even if an injection is planned. Drink normally.
Contrast injection
No injection is generally needed, since the bone surfaces are directly visible on X-rays. It remains possible, through a vein in the arm, if the radiologist is looking for an infection or an abscess around the joint.
Contraindications and precautions
- Previous reaction to an iodinated contrast agent: tell us when you book; a preparation or another exam may be offered.
- Diabetes treated with metformin, or kidney disease: please tell us. Depending on your kidney function, the radiologist will tell you whether metformin should be paused after the injection. Bring a recent creatinine test if you are asked to.
- Thyroid disease, to be reported before any iodine injection.
- Current or possible pregnancy: you must tell us before the exam. A CT scan uses X-rays: it is performed during pregnancy only if it is essential.
- Breastfeeding: please tell us. It is generally not necessary to stop breastfeeding after an iodinated contrast injection.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from the rheumatologist or your regular doctor
- Previous pelvic X-rays and MRIs of the sacroiliac joints
- Recent blood test results if you have them (inflammation tests)
- List of your medications
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The price of a sacroiliac joint CT scan varies with the area covered and with an injection, which is generally unnecessary for these joints.
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
CT scan or MRI for spondyloarthritis?
At the start of the disease, MRI is often preferred, as it can show inflammation of the bone, which the CT scan does not see. The CT scan is useful for revealing more established bone lesions: erosions, thickening of the bone, fusion. Your rheumatologist chooses based on how long you have had symptoms and the exams already done.
Are the reproductive organs exposed to X-rays?
The sacroiliac joints are located in the pelvis, close to the ovaries and not far from the testicles. The area examined is limited to the joints and the dose is set to the minimum needed. That is why the exam is requested only when it is truly useful, and why any possible pregnancy must be reported.
Can a CT scan guide an injection?
Yes, an injection into the sacroiliac joint can be performed under CT guidance, which helps place the needle precisely in the joint. This is a different procedure, with its own preparation and its own prescription. Talk to your doctor about it if an injection is being considered.
Do I have to stop my anti-inflammatory treatment for this CT scan?
No, this CT scan does not require you to stop your treatment: the bone lesions it looks for do not disappear in a few days. Continue your medications as prescribed and write them on the list you bring. If in doubt, ask your rheumatologist for advice.
Sacroiliac Joint CT Scan in Casablanca: how much does it cost?
The price of a sacroiliac joint CT scan varies with the area covered and with an injection, which is generally unnecessary for these joints. The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.