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Separate CTs for foot/ankle?

Are separate CT Scans required to rule out injury to ligaments of the ankle and foot?

I recently visited an orthopedist about pain in the front of my ankle just below the tibia with no swelling or bruising. Without any manual testing, the doctor ordered x-rays. There were 4 views on the computer screen. He looked at only one from a distance and ordered a CT scan for my foot and ankle to rule out ligament injuries.

The hospital called today to schedule 2 CT scans. I asked why there are 2 and she said that one is for the ankle and one is for the foot. I will be charged separately for each. I have had CT scans of the foot and ankle a few years ago and they were not separate.

Is it standard to have separate scans? Also, do I have a right to "shop around" to other imaging centers or are they likely to be the same? Input is greatly appreciated.
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Avatar universal
MRI not CT is more appropriate for evaluating ligaments of ankle and/or foot.
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1806721 tn?1554333407
That does sound weird. Usually when different CTs are scheduled, it's because the protocols are different, e.g. you may need different contrast agent. I would call your ordering doctor, and ask him to call radiologist who protocoled you to clarify.
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