XR - DORSAL /THORACIC SPINE AP & LATERAL VIEW

X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT Overview

X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT is a scan of the thoracic region of the body and two images are obtained – one from the front and the other from the side. A thoracic spine X-ray is typically ordered in case of a complaint of pain in the thoracic spine region. In a normal X-ray of the thoracic spine, we look for the following bones in order from top to bottom: the 12 thoracic vertebrae, the ribs that leap from the thoracic vertebrae, the processes of the vertebrae, thoracic pedicels, and cysts. Abnormalities may include fractures of vertebrae in the thoracic region, and degenerative bone diseases, infection, scoliosis, osteoporosis, or tumours.  

What is an X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT? 

Diagnostics treatments like physiotherapy, medications, and surgery can involve any of the listed abnormalities. The images serve as a baseline to determine if there is any further damage in the future. An anteroposterior or AP view captures the torso of the body from the front to the back. Lateral, or LAT view, captures the torso of the body from the side view or profile. 

An X-ray is a form of imaging technology that uses low energy ionizes radiation to create pictures of the inside of a person's body. Different types of body tissue absorb or transmit radiation in different shows. An X-ray picture shows the internal parts of the body, where hard tissues, for example bones, show in white colour, while the soft parts of tissues show in grey or black. 

Types of X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT 

There are two principal categories of Thoracic Spine AP and LAT X-Rays: 

• Conventional x-ray: This is the x-ray method utilized at most, if not all, medical institutions. 
• Digital x-ray: This is a newer type of x-ray that captures images using electronic sensors. It is less harmful due to lower radiation exposure and results in better-quality images. 

List of Parameters Considered During the X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT

In considering the outcome of an X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT, Doctors highlight the following parameters:  

• Alignment and curvature of vertebrae 
• The density and texture of the bone 
• Structures of soft tissues which includes muscles and ligaments 
• Any foreign objects including surgical implants or devices 
• Signs of degenerative changes which may include, osteophytes or disk space narrowing. 

Reasons for Taking an X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT

Physicians may need to have an X-Ray of the Thoracic Spine AP and LAT for the following reasons:  

• Identify the existence of spinal fractures or dislocation 
• Follow the progression of degenerative diseases like osteoporosis or spinal stenosis 
• Find out if there are any infections osteomyelitis or discitis 
• Study the curvature of the spine with deformities of scoliosis or kyphosis 
• Check the condition of implanted or surgically placed spinal prostheses, rods plates If they have been broken or are loose. 

When and Who Needs to Take an X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT? 

An X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT may be recommended for patients that: 

• Have suffered an injury to the thoracic spine, for example, an injury from a fall or car accident 
• Suffer from osteoporosis, spinal stenosis, or other forms of degenerative spine ailments 
• Have indications of infection such as fever, chills, and muscle weakness 
• Have previously undergone spinal correction surgery and are in need of follow up examinations 
• Have issues with walking or balancing 

Benefits of Taking the Test

There are several advantages stemming from X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP and LAT which include the following:  

• Speedy and non-intrusive 
• The dose of radiation is lower than other methods of imaging 
• Provide quality images of thoracic spine 
• Establish and follow up many different pathological conditions of the spine. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT

Common conditions diagnosed using X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT involves:  

• Spinal fractures and dislocations  
• Osteoporosis and vertebral compression fractures  
• Spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease  
• Scoliosis and kyphosis  
• Osteomyelitis and discitis 

Preparing for X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT

Before undergoing an X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT, patients should:  

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal fasteners or additional accessories.  
• Remove any jewellery, glasses or hearing aids.  
• Advise the radiology technician of any medical implants or surgical hardware.  
• Refrain from eating or drinking anything for several hours before the test. 

Pre-requisites 

There are no specific pre-requisites for an X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT, but patients should: 

Be able to stay still and in position in the X-ray machine. 

Follow any breathing instructions given by the radiology technician. 

Advise the radiology technician of any medical conditions or allergies.  

Best Time to Take the Test 

Any time is okay for taking the test, but it is recommended to schedule for a time when the patient is least likely to be uncomfortable. 

Eligibility  

The test is usually prescribed for patients who:  

• Show signs of a spinal injury or condition  
• Have a prior history of spinal injuries or conditions 
• Are above 50 years and need routine spinal assessments 

Procedure of Conducting an X-Ray Thoracic Spine AP & LAT 

This test usually lasts between 15 to 30 minutes and is completed in the following steps:  

1. The patient is placed on the X-ray table and asked to stay still.  
2. The radiology technician positions the X-ray for the AP view.  
3. The patient is asked to remain still, hold their breath and the X-ray is taken.  
4. The radiology technician positions the X-ray for the LAT view.  
5. The patient is asked to remain still, hold their breath and the X-ray is taken. 

Caution Before You Take the Test 

Patients should let the radiology technician know about the following: 

• Any medical implants or surgical hardware 
• Any allergies or sensitivities to iodine or other contrast agents 
• Medical issues such as pregnancy or having a pacemaker