Computer tomography (CT) is more sensitive than radiography for
detecting structural SIJ changes in the form of erosion of joint facets, joint
space alteration and increased bone density (sclerosis). However, CT cannot
visualise early active inflammation in the subchondral bone unless using modern Dual-energy CT-technique.
Nevertheless, CT can be of help in the diagnosis of minor erosive SIJ changes,
which can be difficult to detect by MRI, and in the diagnosis of anatomical
variation at the SIJ such as accessory joints. In later stages of the disease,
CT can be used to detect spinal changes and is often valuable for the detection and
evaluation of spinal fractures. Additionally, CT can
give information for surgery planning, image guided therapy etc.
Today CT is easily performed using
modern relatively complicated technology. However, CT is often associated with a
relatively high radiation dose and therefore has to be used only for valid
indications unless a low dose technique is used, which unfortunately also imply
reduces images quality.