CT SCAN OF NECK WITHOUT CONTRAST
Also Known As
Lab Test
₹5500
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6hrs
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About The Test
A CT scan neck is a painless imaging test that uses low-dose X-rays and advanced computers to create detailed 3-D pictures of the neck. At Cadabams Diagnostics, we deliver same-day appointments, high-resolution images, and expert reports within hours—helping you move from worry to clarity quickly.
What is CT Scan Neck?
Definition
A CT scan of neck (also called neck CT or neck CT scan) captures cross-sectional images of soft tissues, blood vessels, lymph nodes, thyroid, airway, and cervical spine.
### How it Works
- You lie on a moving table that slides through a doughnut-shaped scanner.
- Detectors rotate around you, taking multiple X-ray slices in seconds.
- A computer reconstructs the slices into 3-D views for radiologists to read.
When and Who Needs to Take a CT Scan Neck?
Common Scenarios
- Persistent neck pain or swelling lasting >2 weeks
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Unexplained voice changes or hoarseness
- Post-accident trauma (whiplash, fractures)
- Cancer staging (thyroid, laryngeal, lymphoma)
- Infection follow-up (abscess, cellulitis)
Typical Age Groups
- Adults 18-80: routine screening for symptoms
- Children: only when ultrasound is inconclusive (low-dose protocols used)
List of Parameters
- Soft-tissue planes (thyroid, parathyroid, salivary glands)
- Lymph node size & morphology
- Airway patency
- Carotid & vertebral arteries
- Cervical spine alignment
- Calcifications or masses
Why This Test
- Rule out infections (abscess, retropharyngeal)
- Detect tumors early (thyroid nodules, laryngeal cancer)
- Evaluate trauma (fractures, hematomas)
- Check congenital anomalies (cysts, branchial cleft)
- Monitor post-surgical changes
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of taking the Test
- Speed: 5-minute scan, reports in 2–4 hours
- Accuracy: 3-D reconstruction spots 2 mm lesions
- Comfort: wide-bore scanner, anxiety-friendly staff
- Convenience: online booking, flexible slots (7 am–9 pm)
Illnesses Diagnosed with a CT scan of the Neck without Contrast
| Condition | What CT Shows |
|---|---|
| Thyroid cancer | Nodule size, calcifications, invasion |
| Lymphoma | Enlarged nodes, extracapsular spread |
| Carotid stenosis | Percentage narrowing, plaque type |
| Deep-neck abscess | Pus pockets, airway compression |
| Fractures | Cervical vertebrae alignment |
Preparing for test
4 Hours Before
- Fasting: skip solid foods if contrast planned
- Hydration: drink 1 L water (except if restricted)
- Clothing: wear metal-free attire; locker provided
Medications
- Continue routine meds; bring prescription list
- Hold metformin 48 h post-contrast if kidney issues
Pre-requisites
- Doctor’s prescription (upload via app or bring hard copy)
- KFT report if over 60 or diabetic (within 30 days)
- Previous imaging CDs for comparison
Best Time to Take the CT Scan Neck
- Morning slots (7–10 am): ideal for contrast studies (faster overnight fasting)
- Evening slots (5–8 pm): suits working professionals
- Emergency: 24×7 availability for trauma cases
Eligibility
- Adults & children >5 years (weight ≥20 kg)
- Pregnant women: postponed unless life-threatening
- Kidney disease: clearance required for contrast
Procedure for Taking a CT Scan Neck
- Check-in: ID & prescription verified (5 min)
- Consent: contrast risks explained, form signed
- Positioning: lie supine, head immobilized with soft straps
- Scan: table moves; hold breath for 5–10 seconds
- Contrast: dye injected via IV; warm sensation normal
- Post-scan: 15 min observation, given refreshments
- Report: digital report + CD ready in 2–4 hours
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Allergies: inform staff about iodine, shellfish, or prior reactions
- Pregnancy: take beta-hCG test if in reproductive age
- Claustrophobia: open-bore scanner + mild sedation available on request
- Jewelry: remove necklaces, earrings, piercings
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Condition/Findings | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal scan | No abnormalities detected in soft tissues, lymph nodes, thyroid, or airway. | Healthy status; no further action required. | |
| Mild inflammation | Slight tissue swelling seen, possibly with minor airway narrowing. | Requires clinical follow-up to monitor for improvement or progression. |
| Abnormal mass | Unusual density or shadow detected, possibly indicating a tumor or cyst. | Possible pathology; further tests such as biopsy or PET-CT may be necessary for diagnosis. |
| Deep-neck abscess | Loculated pus pockets seen, possibly with airway compression. | Requires immediate medical attention; antibiotics or drainage may be necessary. | |
| Lymphoma | Enlarged lymph nodes with extracapsular spread observed. | Indicative of lymphoma; biopsy and further staging tests are likely required. |
Risks & Limitations
Minimal Risks
| Risk | Frequency | Mitigation at Cadabams |
|---|---|---|
| Radiation exposure | Low (≈2–4 mSv) | Latest low-dose scanners |
| Allergic reaction to contrast | <1 % | Pre-screening & on-site emergency team |
Limitations
- Metal artifacts from dental fillings may obscure areas.
- Soft-tissue resolution slightly lower than MRI for nerve detail.
Types of CT Scan Neck
- Non-contrast CT neck – quick, no dye; ideal for trauma or stones
- Contrast-enhanced CT neck – iodine dye highlights vessels & tumors
- CT angiography neck – specialized contrast study for carotid arteries
- CT-guided biopsy – real-time imaging for precise tissue sampling
FAQs
How long does a CT scan neck take?
The scan itself is 3–5 minutes; total visit time is 30–45 minutes including preparation.
Is the radiation dose high?
No. Modern low-dose protocols keep exposure at ≈2–4 mSv—less than a year of natural background radiation.
Can I eat after the scan?
Yes, resume normal diet immediately unless advised otherwise.
ediately.
Will the contrast affect my kidneys?
Risk is minimal in healthy kidneys. We screen kidney function beforehand and use iso-osmolar contrast.
What is the biggest difference between a CT with and without contrast?
A CT without contrast is a basic, fundamental scan great for bones and general anatomy. A CT with contrast uses an injected iodine dye that acts like a highlighter, making blood vessels and certain types of tissues (like tumors or areas of infection) stand out more clearly on the images. Your doctor chooses which is best based on your specific medical question.