CT THORASIC SPINE

Your thoracic spine protects the spinal cord and anchors your rib cage. When pain, tingling, or injury strike this area, an accurate image is vital. A CT thoracic spine scan uses low-dose X-rays and computer processing to create cross-sectional slices of bone, discs, and surrounding soft tissue. Cadabams Diagnostics offers same-day appointments, minimal wait times, and compassionate care for every patient.

What is a Thoracic Spine CT Scan?

A CT thoracic spine (also called a chest spine CT scan or T-spine CT) is a painless, outpatient imaging test. You lie on a motorized table that glides through a donut-shaped scanner. In less than 10 minutes, hundreds of high-resolution images are captured from multiple angles. The result? A detailed map that helps your physician spot fractures, tumors, infections, or other problems that ordinary X-rays can miss.

When and Who Needs to Take a Thoracic Spine CT Scan?

Your doctor may order a CT scan thoracic spine if you have:

• Mid-back pain lasting more than six weeks
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Suspected fracture after a fall or accident
• History of cancer with possible spread to bone
• Unexplained fever or weight loss
• Abnormal findings on an X-ray or MRI

• Bone density and vertebral height
• Disc spaces and alignment
• Spinal canal diameter
• Presence of calcifications, fractures, or lesions
• Surrounding soft tissue and rib connections
• Radiation dose tracking (ALARA principle)

Common clinical questions a thoracic spine CT scan can answer:

• Is there a compression fracture from osteoporosis?
• Has cancer spread to the spine?
• Are there bone spurs pressing on nerves?
• Is infection (e.g., tuberculosis) present?
• Is the curvature (kyphosis or scoliosis) worsening?

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Speed: Results available within 2–4 hours
• Precision: Detects 2 mm lesions
• Guidance: Helps plan surgery or radiation therapy
• Peace of mind: Rule out serious causes of back pain quickly
• Accessibility: Same-day scheduling at Cadabams Diagnostics

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Thoracic Spine Scan

• Vertebral compression fractures
• Herniated or calcified discs
• Spinal tumors (primary or metastatic)
• Osteomyelitis or discitis
• Ankylosing spondylitis changes
• Traumatic injuries (e.g., burst fracture)

1. Wear loose, metal-free clothing; we provide a gown if needed.
2. Remove necklaces, bras with underwire, and belt buckles.
3. Bring prior imaging reports for comparison.
4. If contrast is planned, fast for 4–6 hours and inform us of allergies.

Pre-requisites

• Doctor’s prescription stating clinical indication
• Recent serum creatinine report (if contrast is used)
• Pregnancy test (for women of childbearing age when contrast is ordered)

Best Time to Take the Thoracic Spine CT Scan

Any time of day is acceptable. However, if contrast is involved, early morning slots reduce fasting time. Book online at Cadabams Diagnostics to choose the slot that suits you.

Eligibility

• Adults and children (pediatric protocols adjust dose)
• Patients with pacemakers, implants, or prior spinal surgery—no restrictions
• Contrast scans: creatinine ≤ 1.5 mg/dL and no prior severe contrast allergy

Procedure for Taking a Thoracic Spine CT Scan

Step 1: Check-in & Consent

Arrive 15 minutes early. Our staff explains the process and obtains your written consent.
### Step 2: Positioning on the CT Table
You’ll lie on your back with arms above your head. Cushions keep you comfortable and still.
### Step 3: Scanning & Image Acquisition
The table glides through the scanner while you hold your breath for a few seconds. You’ll hear gentle whirring sounds—this is normal.
### Step 4: Contrast Injection (if required)
A small IV line delivers dye; you may feel warm or metallic taste for 30 seconds.
### Step 5: Report Generation
Images are processed by AI-enhanced software and reviewed by our on-site radiologist. Reports are shared via email and our secure patient portal.

Caution Before Taking the Test

• Inform staff of claustrophobia; we offer calming music and open-bore CT options.
• Diabetics on metformin: pause dose 48 hours post-contrast (doctor guidance required).
• Kidney disease: discuss alternatives if eGFR < 30.

Results and Interpretations

• Normal: Vertebrae aligned, discs intact, no fractures or lesions.
• Abnormal: Detailed measurements of any narrowing, fractures, or masses.
• Next steps: Your physician will correlate findings with symptoms and may recommend physical therapy, medication, or further imaging.