Along with a normal CT scan, the team also used a technique called dual-energy computed tomography (DECT). This scans the sample with X-rays at two different energy levels, giving information about tissue composition and disease processes invisible to a single-energy CT scan.

For example, the CT scan of a portion of the jaw called the left dentary revealed thickening and a mass on its surface. Then the DECT detected an accumulation of fluorine within the mass. The researchers say that together, these indicate that the T-rex had tumefactive osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone.