CT SCAN DORSAL/THORACIC SPINE

A CT scan of the dorsal or thoracic spine is an imaging test done without incisions or injections. It utilizes X-rays and computer technology to create 3D images of the upper and middle back. This scan is used to monitor injuries, tumours, or degenerative changes to the thoracic spine. 

What is a CT scan Dorsal/Thoracic Spine? 

Like other CT scans, a dorsal or thoracic spine CT scan adds computer processed X-rays to create detailed images of the spine. The patient lies on a bed that moves into a machine similar to an enormous donut. The machine rotates around the body and takes X-ray images from different angles. Those images are then processed into 3D cross sectional views of the spine. 

Types of CT Scan Dorsal/Thoracic Spine  

The two broad categories of CT scans of the dorsal/thoracic spine are as follows: 

• Non-contrast CT scan: Used for patients with an allergic reaction or kidney complications, this test does not use contrast dye. 
• Contrast-enhanced CT scan: This test employs cont

During the examination, medical personnel will check the following parameters:  

• Fractures or dislocations of vertebrae  
• Herniated or bulging discs  
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)  
• Tumours or cancers of the thoracic spine  
• Inflammatory processes like infections or abscesses 

CT scan of dorsal/thoracic spine is commonly requested due to the following conditions or complaints:  

• Pain or tingling sensation in the upper/middle backside  
• Deficits like weakness or paralysis of limbs  
• Gait instability or difficulty maintaining posture  
• Recent mechanical trauma to the thoracic spine 

When And Who Needs A CT scan Of the Dorsal/Thoracic Spine? 

A dorsal/thoracic spine CT scan could be recommended in the following scenarios: 

• Injuries of the thoracic spine like fractures or disk herniation.  
• Degenerative diseases such as, osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis.  
• Tumours or cancers which involve the thoracic spine.  
• Infections such as abscess or osteomyelitis.  
• Patients with symptoms including back pain, upper or mid back numbness, and/or weakness. 

This test is most useful for patients who have suffered some kind of trauma, along with a personal or family history of spinal issues. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

The advantages of a CT scan of the dorsal/thoracic spine include:  

• Effective diagnosis of disease of thoracic spine  
• Follow up of degenerative processes or tumour formations  
• Decision making for operative versus conservative treatment 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT scan Dorsal/Thoracic Spine

Most common conditions of dorsal/thoracic spine, which are diagnosed with CT scan are:  

• Herniated or bulging discs  
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)  
• Osteoarthrosis or degenerative joint disease  
• Tumours or cancers of the thoracic spine 

To adequately prepare for the test, the following steps are to be taken by the patient:  

• Arriving at least 30 minutes early to the appointment  
• Removing any jewellery and clothes that have metal clasps  
• Telling the technician about any known allergies or medical history  
• Abiding by any other instruction rendered by the healthcare provider 

Pre-requisites 

To conduct a CT scan of the dorsal or thoracic spine, the patient is not required to have pre-specified prerequisites but might need to:  

• Stop eating a few hours before the scan  
• Refrain from some medication or other substances 

Best Time to Take the Test 

While there isn’t a generally preferred a time of the day to administer the test, the afternoon or morning is recommended, to allow for potential follow up appointments.  

Eligibility 

It is advised that people of all ages undergo a scan of the dorsal or thoracic spine, however people with certain conditions are not recommended, like those with allergies, kidney disease, or other medical issues. 

Procedure for Taking a CT scan Dorsal/Thoracic Spine 

For the CT scan procedure of the thoracic or dorsal spine, the average time set to complete it is between 15—30 minutes with the steps being:  

1. The patient is to lie on the table which moves into the CT machine. 
2. The technician arranges the patient and explains how the patient must breathe and hold still throughout the test.  
3. The machine takes X-ray pictures of different sections of the body, rotating around it to capture images from various angles.  
4. These images are processed into detailed cross-sectional views of the thoracic spine. 

Caution Before Taking the Test  

In advance of the test, patients need to communicate any medical problems, allergies, or worries that could affect their health to the technician. Additionally, those with kidney problems or allergies should contact their doctor before booking the appointment.