CT CERIVICAL SPINE

The neck area, or cervical spine, can be examined through CT (computed tomography) imaging that integrates X-ray and computer technologies. Injuries, tumours, and degenerative diseases to this part of the body usually require more specific monitoring, something this technique can help diagnose effectively. Using X-ray technology, this procedure captures the images in slices and allows for studying them in greater detail. 

What is CT Cervical Spine? 

Similar to the traditional CT scan, the CT Cervical Spine exam employs a combination of X-rays, CT technology, and computer software to capture the images. The step that differs is the patient rests on a table that will move directly into a large, rounded scanner, rather than lying still. This machine, unlike traditional forms, spins around the individual while capturing images at different angles with the use of X-rays. From there, the computer is able to create ultra-detailed images of the cervical spine structure. 

Types of CT Cervical Spine 

CT Cervical Spine is divided into two categories: 

• Non-contrast CT Cervical Spine: In this types of scan, no contrast is used and it is mostly done for imaging the bone parts of cervical vertebrae region for supraspinatus evaluation. 
• Contrast-enhanced CT Cervical Spine: In this scan, contrast material is injected to image the spinal cord and nerves in the cervical spine region. 

List off Parameters Considered During the CT Cervical Spine

During the test, the medical professionals shall take into account the following parameters: 

• Cervical spinal alignment and curvature 
• Bone density with or without fractures 
• Herniated discs and degenerative discs 
• Spinal canal stenosis 
• Cystic or neoplastic lesions 
• Soft tissue abnormalities, such as those involving the spinal cord and the nerves 

Reasons for Taking a CT Cervical Spine

This scan is used for the following common referrals: 

• Pain or stiffness around the neck region 
• Shivering, numbness or weakness in the arms and hands 
• Trauma inflicted onto the neck region 
• Degenerative conditions including spinal stenosis or osteoarthritis 
• Possible infections or neoplastic lesions of the spine 
• Follow-up on spondylolisthesis or spinal stenosis 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Cervical Spine? 

The following conditions may lead the clinician to suggest a CT Cervical Spine: 

• Pain or stiffness in the neck. 
• Altered feelings such as numbness, tingling, or physical weakness in the arms or hands. 
• Neck trauma from a car accident or fall. 
• Osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis and other degenerative diseases. 
• Infections or tumors of the spine that may be present or are suspected. 
• Patients with known history of cancer or those who are suspected to have cancer and metastasis. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

There are numerous advantages that come from the CT Cervical Spine, including but not limited to: 

• Detailed imaging of the cervical spine region 
• Correct identification of spinal pathologies 
• Follow-up on spinal pathologies 
• Facilitation of corrective surgical procedures 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Cervical Spine

The CT Cervical spine is known to be the most common diagnosis of the following conditions: 

• Stenosis of the spine 
• Osteoarthritis of the spine 
• Degenerative disease of the intervertebral discs 
• Spondylolisthesis of the spine 
• Fracture of the spine 
• Infection of the spine 
• Bones, like osteosarcoma, have tumors. 

Preparing for CT Cervical Spine

Here’s a few ways you can prepare for your test: 

• Take off any jewelry that may get in the way of the test or remove any clothing that does. 
• Put on a hospital gown. 
• Refrain from eating or drinking anything for about 4 to 6 hours prior to the test. 
• Avoid taking some medications like anticoagulants or anti-inflammatories. 

Pre-requisites 

Here are some items that you might be responsible prior to testing: 

• Fasting or refraining from eating for about 4 or 6 hours prior the test. 
• Not taking specific medications for a period of time. 
• Completing a consent form that explains your choice about accepting the treatment. 

Best Time to Take the CT of Cervical Spine 

This test can be done at any time, however, it is recommended to schedule the test in the morning or early afternoon so that the patient has fasted for a certain amount of time. 

Eligibility 

The following patients are generally advised to have a CT Cervical Spine: 

• Patients with neck and shoulder stiffness and pain. 
• Patients with possible diagnosis of a spinal disorder. 
• Patients with a history of malignancy or possible metastatic disease. 

This test may be inappropriate for: 

• Women in advanced stages of pregnancy. 
• Those with kidney problems. 
• Those allergic to shellfish or iodine. 

Procedure for Taking a CT Cervical Spine 

The steps that follow detail the CT Cervical Spine procedure: 

1. CT booking and pre-test preparation 
2. Change into a hospital gown 
3. Take off jewelry and irregular clothes that can interfere with the test 
4. Hair ornaments (if any) are also removed. 
5. Client lies flat on the examination table. 
6. Put a cushion under the head and neck region. 
7. Administer contrast material where necessary. 
8. Scan cervical spine region. 
9. Reconstruction and Radiological analysis. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Have the following requirements on check before undergoing the test: 

• Patient has to be on fasting (Nil By Mouth) for 4 to 6hrs prior the test. 
• Patient should stop taking some medication. 
• Patient should declare any other allergy or condition to the technician.