CT SCAN OF WHOLE SPINE
Also Known As
Lab Test
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About The Test
Every year, thousands of Indians face back or neck pain, numbness, or injury after falls and accidents. A CT SCAN OF WHOLE SPINE offers cross-sectional images that reveal hidden fractures, slipped discs, infections, and even early tumours. Cadabams Diagnostics delivers these scans with minimal wait time, affordable pricing, and reports within 2 hours.
What Is CT Scan of the Spine?
A CT scan of the spine uses low-dose X-rays and powerful computers to create 3D pictures of the vertebrae from skull base to tailbone. Unlike ordinary X-rays, this scan shows:
- Bone structure in minute detail
- Disc spaces and spinal canal
- Nerves and surrounding soft tissues
- Blood vessel abnormalities
When and Who Needs to Take a CT Scan of the Spine?
You may need a CT SCAN OF WHOLE SPINE if you have:
- Persistent back or neck pain after injury
- Numbness, weakness, or tingling in limbs
- Suspected spinal fracture from trauma
- Chronic arthritis or osteoporosis
- Unexplained fever with spine tenderness
Doctors also order these scans before spine surgery or to check healing after procedures.
List of Parameters
Our radiologists assess:
- Vertebral alignment and curvature
- Disc height and hydration
- Spinal canal width (stenosis)
- Nerve root impingement
- Fracture lines or bone density
- Soft-tissue swelling or masses
Why This Test
Common medical reasons include:
- Trauma screening after road accidents
- Evaluation of chronic low-back pain
- Planning for spinal fusion or decompression
- Monitoring arthritis progression
- Detecting hidden infections like spinal TB
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Speed: Scan completes in 5–10 minutes
- Accuracy: 0.5 mm slice thickness catches hairline cracks
- Comfort: Wide-bore scanner reduces claustrophobia
- Convenience: Same-day digital reports via Cadabams app
- Guidance: Direct online booking with zero paperwork
Illnesses Diagnosed with Whole Spine CT Scan
| Condition | What the CT reveals |
|---|---|
| Herniated disc | Disc material pressing on nerves |
| Spinal stenosis | Narrowing of spinal canal |
| Spondylolisthesis | Vertebra sliding over another |
| Compression fracture | Collapsed vertebral body |
| Spinal tumours | Abnormal growths & their exact location |
| Osteomyelitis/discitis | Bone or disc infection |
Preparing for test
- Fasting: Skip food 4 hours before if contrast is planned
- Clothing: Wear metal-free attire or change into our gown
- Allergies: Inform staff about shellfish or iodine allergy
- Medications: Continue regular meds unless advised otherwise
- Hydration: Drink water after non-contrast scans to flush kidneys
Pre-requisites
Bring:
- Doctor’s prescription or e-referral
- Previous imaging (X-ray/MRI) for comparison
- Valid ID and insurance card
Best Time to Take the CT Scan of the Spine
- After injury: Within 24–48 hours for acute trauma
- Before surgery: 1–2 weeks to allow scheduling
- Routine screening: Any weekday morning for minimal wait
Eligibility
- Age: 5 years and above; paediatric cases need guardian consent
- Pregnancy: Not recommended unless absolutely essential
- Weight: Scanner accommodates up to 200 kg
Procedure for Taking a CT Scan of the Spine
Step-by-Step Guide
- Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early at Cadabams Diagnostics centre.
- Screening: Fill a short safety questionnaire.
- Positioning: Lie on the padded table; cushions support natural spine curve.
- Scanning: Table glides through the scanner in <5 minutes while you hold still.
- Contrast (if needed): IV line placed for 30-second dye injection.
- Completion: Dress and relax in our refreshment lounge.
Duration of the Exam
- Non-contrast: 5 minutes
- With contrast: 10–15 minutes including observation
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Pregnant patients must inform staff for alternative imaging.
- Diabetics on metformin should withhold the drug 48 hours after contrast.
- Remove all metal jewellery, belts, and hairpins.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal scan | Vertebral bodies, discs, and spinal canal appear healthy; no fractures, | No evidence of disease; routine activity can continue |
| Disc degeneration | Decreased disc height, loss of hydration, marginal osteophytes | Common age-related change; may correlate with discomfort if symptomatic |
| Herniated disc | Disc material extending beyond its normal boundary, pressing on spinal nerves | May cause pain, numbness, or weakness; further assessment for nerve function may be needed |
| Spinal stenosis | Narrowing of the spinal canal, often with ligament thickening or bone spurs | Can lead to nerve root compression; may require intervention if symptoms are severe |
| Vertebral fracture | Disruption or collapse of part of a vertebra; may be wedge-shaped, burst, or compression type | Indicative of trauma or osteoporosis; further evaluation of bone health and possible cause is recommended | |
Risks & Limitations
Risks (low but worth knowing):
- Small radiation dose (similar to 6–9 months of natural background exposure)
- Rare allergic reaction to iodinated contrast dye
Limitations:
- Limited detail of spinal cord nerves compared with MRI
- Not ideal for very early bone-marrow disorders
Types of CT Scan of the Spine
We offer three options, tailored to your doctor’s request:
Non-Contrast CT Spine
Fast, no dye—perfect for fractures or bone alignment checks.
CT Myelography
Contrast dye is injected into spinal fluid to outline nerves and discs, ideal for complex nerve compression.
CT Spine with IV Contrast
Dye delivered through a vein highlights infections, tumours, or post-surgery changes.
FAQs
Is the CT SCAN OF WHOLE SPINE painful?
No. You only lie still; there is no pain.
How much radiation is involved?
Equivalent to about 6 months of natural background radiation—well within safe limits.
Can I drive home after the scan?
Yes, unless you received sedatives (rare for spine scans).
What if I am claustrophobic?
Our open-bore design and calming music reduce anxiety.
Is a CT scan of the whole spine painful?
The scan itself is completely painless. You will simply lie still while the machine moves around you. If your scan requires contrast, the only discomfort you might feel is a brief pinch from the IV needle placement.
When will I get my results?
At Cadabams Diagnostics, we pride ourselves on a quick turnaround. The radiologist's report is typically sent to your referring physician within 24-48 hours. In urgent or emergency cases, results are communicated much faster. Your doctor will then schedule a follow-up to discuss the findings with you.