XR - CERVICAL SPINE AP & LATERAL VIEWS

XR – Cervical Spine AP & Lateral Overview

The cervical spine X-ray AP and lateral projections is an image study aimed at diagnosing conditions affecting the structure or alignment of the cervical spine (neck region). It employs X-ray technology for visualizing the cervical vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and the surrounding soft structures. Patients might need to take off glasses, jewellery, and other garments which may obscure the X-ray images. Usually, there are no special requirements including changes to diet or cessation of medication. 

What is XR – Cervical Spine AP & Lateral? 

The XR – Cervical Spine AP & Lateral test applies X-ray beams to capture images of the cervical spine in two projection angles – AP and lateral. The AP view is obtained by taking the picture from the front, while the lateral view is obtained by taking the image from the side. This test serves the purpose of determining the alignment, structural components, and possible pathological processes affecting the cervical spine including vertebrae, discs, and soft tissues levels. 

Types of XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral 

Below are the two types of XR Cervical Spine AP & Lateral test: 

• AP imagery captures the cervical spine region in front and back aspects. 
• Lateral imagery captures the side view of the cervical spine region. 

List Of Parameters Considered During the XR Cervical Spine AP & Lateral

The following parameters are taken into consideration by specialists during the procedure: 

• Affected vertebra’s position and alignment 
• Space between vertebrae and height of intervertebral disc 
• Bony elements density and texture 
• Soft tissue patterns and shapes, for presence of contours 
• Spine curvature measurements 

Reasons for Taking an XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral

This test is most prescribed for these conditions or symptoms: 

• Fractures or dislocations of the vertebrae in the neck. 
• Discogenic disease which progresses over time. 
• Protruding intervertebral discs. 
• Narrowing of the vertebral foramen. 
• Scoliosis and other bends of the spine. 
• Osteoarthritis and other conditions that lead to the deterioration of the joints. 

When and Who Needs to Take an XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral? 

The following symptoms will require the XR screening: 

• Painful feelings or rigidness around the cervical region. 
• Inability to freely move the head or neck. 
• Weakness or lack of sensation in the extremities of the body with associated tingling. 
• External impact or lesions on the neck region. 
• Abnormal kyphotic or lordotic curvature of spine. 
• Osteoarthritis or other similar degenerative diseases. 
• Possible fractures or dislocated bones. 

Assumed spinal injuries, traumas, and various ailments frequently accompanying the below conditions usually require this test for diagnosis and should be the target population of this exam. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

As with any imaging procedure doe the spine, there are advantages of the XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral test which include: 

• The examination does not require patient cooperation, so it can be done fast. 
• The patient's cervical spine will be X-rayed for accurate results. 
• Patients with spine pathologies will be monitored effectively. 
• Helps establish the diagnoses for injuries of the spine. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral

Medial conditions that this test with/against include: 

• Cervical spine fractures or dislocation. 
• Progressively deteriorating cervical discs and cervical osseous structures. 
• Pockets of pathology formed due to protruded intervertebral discs. 
• Narrowing within the spinal column. 
• Abnormal lateral and frontal curving of the spine. 
• Joint diseases leading to progressive degenerative arthritis. 

Preparing for XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral

Patients need to: 

• Remove any items such as jewellery or glasses that can potentially obscure the X-ray images. 
• Tell the X-ray technician if there are any surgically implanted devices like a pacemaker or prosthetic joints. 
• Adhere to the general and specific guidelines given by any qualified medical practitioner or medical institution. 

Pre-requisites 

Conditions that currently exist do not pose any restrictions for the imaging procedure. However, patients may have to put on a hospital gown and take off anything that may distract from looking at the target images. 

Best Time to Take the XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral X-Ray 

This assessment is generally best done when symptoms present themselves or post injury. However, there are no restrictions to when the test can be done. 

Eligibility 

The assessment is best suited for the patients with observable symptoms or previous medical history that may possibly include spine conditions. Some other conditions like pregnancy or severe scoliosis may need extra attention and careful testing. 

Procedure For Taking an XR - Cervical Spine AP & Lateral X-Ray 

The tests are typically accomplished in a few simple steps as discussed below: 

1. Patient positioning: The Patient will stand Infront of the Xray machine and the operator will direct the x-ray tube towards the cervical spine. 
2. AP view: The patient is instructed to relax without any movement as the beam rotates from anterior to posterior and x-rays are taken during the rotation. 
3. Lateral view: The patient is asked to rotate sideways, and a picture is taken of the cervical spine from a side view. 
4. Image Capture: The images taken will be printed and supplied to a computer for printed display and evaluation. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Prior to the test, patients must report to the technician any medical conditions like pregnancy or recent injuries and adhere to any specialized instructions given by the practitioner or the facility conducting the test.