CT of the Spine

A CT scan of your cervical- thoracic -and lumbar spine allows the radiologist to look at different levels or slices of the middle back using a rotating X-ray beam. The radiologist is able to view each slice to assess for injuries, including ruptured disks and other bony abnormalities.

• While positioning you on an exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
• If contrast dye is being used, it will be injected through your IV.
• You may get an injection. During the injection, you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metal taste in your mouth. This is normal.
• If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat or swelling of your face, please notify the technologist immediately.
• You will be asked to lie flat on your back.
• The exam table will slide into the scanner, only covering the part of your body which is being studied. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out.
• The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
• You may be asked to hold your breath for a short time while the scanner takes a series of pictures. The time it takes to actually acquire images is very brief.
• The images will be reviewed, and if necessary, some may be repeated.
• This procedure usually takes approximately 20 minutes.

What to Wear

Please dress in comfortable clothing. Leave all jewelry and valuables at home.

Medications

Please take all the medications that have been prescribed to you by your doctor. Let our staff know what medications you have taken prior to your exam.

Food and Drink

You should not eat solid foods for two hours prior to your test, if your procedure is scheduled with contrast. You may, however, drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water and broth.

If your doctor gave you an order, please bring it with you.

The benefits of CT of the Spine:

• Can provide more detailed, accurate results than traditional x-ray
• Option for 3D imaging and analysis
• Can detect problems/disease earlier
• Involves minimal risks
• Painless, noninvasive and accurate
• Fast and simple
• Can be performed if you have an implanted medical device, unlike MRI
• May eliminate the need for exploratory surgery or biopsy