CT LOWER NECK & THORAX
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
Quick facts about the CT neck scan
- Duration: 5–10 minutes total
- Technology: 128-slice spiral CT with annotated scrollable images
- Radiation: Lowest-dose protocols approved by AERB
- Report turnaround: 6 hours for routine cases, 1 hour for emergencies
Why choose Cadabams Diagnostics
- AI-assisted reconstruction for crystal-clear details
- Comfortable wide-bore scanner—ideal for claustrophobic patients
- 24×7 booking via app or phone
- Transparent pricing with no hidden contrast fees
2. What is CT Neck Scan?
Definition and imaging technology
A CT LOWER NECK & THORAX scan uses X-rays and advanced detectors to create cross-sectional images from the collarbone to the top of the lungs. Our spiral CT rotates continuously, capturing data in a single breath-hold.
How annotated scrollable images enhance diagnosis
Cadabams Diagnostics overlays color-coded labels onto the 3D reconstruction. Radiologists can scroll through layers, zoom into suspicious areas, and share interactive links with your doctor for faster, more precise treatment planning.
3. When and Who Needs to Take a CT Neck Scan?
Common symptoms that prompt a scan
- Persistent neck pain or swelling
- Hoarseness lasting >3 weeks
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Unexplained weight loss with night sweats
Referring specialists
- ENT surgeons
- Oncologists
- Endocrinologists
- Spine specialists
List of Parameters
- Soft-tissue windows – evaluate thyroid, lymph nodes
- Bone window settings – detect fractures or spine involvement
- Lymph node zones – Level I–VII mapping for staging
- Vascular anatomy – carotid and subclavian arteries
Why This Test
### Trauma evaluation
CT LOWER NECK & THORAX rapidly identifies airway injury, vertebral fractures, or vessel tears.
### Infection or swelling
Detect abscesses, cellulitis, or retropharyngeal spread.
### Tumour staging
Precisely measure tumor size and nodal involvement before surgery or chemo-radiation.
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- High-resolution images down to 0.5 mm
- Quick scan time—less than 30 seconds on the table
- Scrollable 3D reconstruction for multi-angle review
- Same-day digital report accessible on the Cadabams app
Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Scan of Neck and Thorax
- Thyroid nodules – benign vs malignant characterization
- Lymphadenopathy – infection or lymphoma staging
- Spine involvement in neck – disc herniation or metastasis
- Parathyroid adenomas – small lesions often missed on ultrasound
Preparing for test
Diet and fasting
- With contrast: Fast 4 hours prior
- Without contrast: No fasting needed
Clothing and metal objects
- Wear loose cotton clothes; remove necklaces, earrings, and piercings.
Contrast preparation
- Drink 1 L water the day before to stay hydrated.
- Inform staff of previous contrast allergies.
11. Pre-requisites
- Doctor’s prescription – mandatory for scheduling
- Kidney function tests – serum creatinine & eGFR within 30 days for contrast studies
12. Best Time to Take the CT Neck Scan
- Morning slots preferred for diabetic patients after overnight fast.
- Emergency cases accepted 24×7; priority reporting in 60 minutes.
13. Eligibility
- Age groups: Safe for infants to geriatrics; paediatric protocols available.
- Pregnancy considerations: CT avoided in first trimester unless life-threatening; shielding provided in second & third trimesters.
14. Procedure for Taking a CT Neck Scan
Positioning on the table
Lie supine with head in a soft cradle; neck slightly extended.
Breathing instructions
Hold breath for 10-second scans; gentle breathing allowed between passes.
Contrast injection process
IV line in the arm; contrast delivered over 20 seconds via automated injector.
15. Caution Before Taking the Test
Allergies to iodine
Pre-medication with steroids & antihistamines for prior mild reactions; severe allergy patients offered alternative MRI.
Claustrophobia tips
Open-bore design reduces anxiety; music or relative accompaniment allowed.
Diabetes medications
Metformin paused 48 hours post-contrast if eGFR < 45; resume after kidney function re-check
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal scan | No abnormalities detected; normal sizes and textures of tissues, vessels, and bones | Indicates healthy anatomical structures and no signs of disease or injury |
| Mild inflammation | Slight soft tissue swelling or lymph node enlargement without necrosis | Suggests infection or early inflammatory process that may require clinical follow-up |
| Abnormal mass | Well-defined or irregular lesion with unusual density or enhancement patterns | Possible tumor, abscess, or pathology needing further evaluation, biopsy, or treatment |
| Soft Tissues of the Neck | Muscles, fat, and connective tissues in the neck region. | Identifies inflammation, infection (abscess), enlarged glands, or abnormal masses that can cause lumps or pain. |
Risks & Limitations
Radiation exposure
Effective dose ≈ 2–3 mSv—about 6 months of natural background radiation. Pediatric and low-dose protocols reduce exposure by up to 40 %.
Contrast dye considerations
- Rare allergic reactions (1 in 10,000)
- Temporary metallic taste or warm flush
- Kidney function assessment required if eGFR < 45
5. Types of CT Neck Scan
Contrast-enhanced vs non-contrast
- Non-contrast: Quick, ideal for stones or trauma
- Contrast-enhanced: Highlights vessels, lymph nodes, and tumors
Spiral vs multi-slice CT
- Spiral (helical): Continuous motion, ultra-fast
- Multi-slice: Up to 128 detectors for razor-thin slices (0.625 mm)
FAQs
How long does the scan take?
Total appointment 20 minutes; actual scanning 5 minutes.
Is the CT neck scan painful?
No pain; only a brief warm sensation during contrast.
When will I get my report?
Soft copy in 6 hours; hard copy & CD ready at center.
Can I drive home after the scan?
Yes, unless you took sedatives for claustrophobia.
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Why do I need a CT scan with contrast?
Your doctor may specifically request a CT scan of the neck and chest with contrast to get a better look at certain tissues. The contrast agent makes blood vessels, organs, and any abnormal tissue (like tumors or areas of inflammation) stand out more clearly against the surrounding structures. This enhanced visibility is often crucial for making a definitive diagnosis of vascular issues, infections, or cancer.