Cadabams Diagnostics
CT Scan

CT Scan of Whole Spine

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CT SCAN OF WHOLE SPINE

60 Mins

Report Turnaround

1M

Happy Customers

4.9

Google Rating

5

Certified Labs

CT scan of Whole Spine Overview

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.

Why This Test

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

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.

List of Parameters

List of Parameters Considered During the Whole Spine CT Scan

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

Reasons for Taking a Whole Spine CT Scan

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

When to Take Test

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.

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

ConditionWhat the CT reveals
Herniated discDisc material pressing on nerves
Spinal stenosisNarrowing of spinal canal
SpondylolisthesisVertebra sliding over another
Compression fractureCollapsed vertebral body
Spinal tumoursAbnormal growths & their exact location
Osteomyelitis/discitisBone or disc infection

Preparing for Test

Preparing for a Whole Spine CT Scan

  • 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

  1. Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early at Cadabams Diagnostics centre.
  2. Screening: Fill a short safety questionnaire.
  3. Positioning: Lie on the padded table; cushions support natural spine curve.
  4. Scanning: Table glides through the scanner in <5 minutes while you hold still.
  5. Contrast (if needed): IV line placed for 30-second dye injection.
  6. 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.

Risks & Limitations of the Whole Spine CT Scan

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

Test Results

Results and Interpretations

Finding / ObservationDescriptionGeneral Interpretation / Significance
Normal scanVertebral bodies, discs, and spinal canal appear healthy; no fractures,No evidence of disease; routine activity can continue
Disc degenerationDecreased disc height, loss of hydration, marginal osteophytesCommon age-related change; may correlate with discomfort if symptomatic
Herniated discDisc material extending beyond its normal boundary, pressing on spinal nervesMay cause pain, numbness, or weakness; further assessment for nerve function may be needed
Spinal stenosisNarrowing of the spinal canal, often with ligament thickening or bone spursCan lead to nerve root compression; may require intervention if symptoms are severe
Vertebral fractureDisruption or collapse of part of a vertebra; may be wedge-shaped, burst, or compression typeIndicative of trauma or osteoporosis; further evaluation of bone health and possible cause is recommended |

FAQs

  • No. You only lie still; there is no pain.

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About us

Cadabam's Diagnostics: What Defines Us

Welcome to Cadabam's Diagnostics, where diagnostic care meets modern convenience. We believe that accessing vital health insights shouldn't mean sacrificing comfort. That's why we bring advanced, high-quality testing services delivered straight to your doorstep. Our commitment to accuracy, speed, and compassion ensures that every test is handled with the utmost care, giving you reliable results without leaving home. Trusted by healthcare providers and patients alike, we're here to support your wellness journey with expertise you can count on.