CT of the neck soft tissues

CT of the soft tissues of the neck — is a modern method of radiation diagnostics that allows detecting inflammatory processes, neoplasms, traumatic changes and other disorders in the neck area. The examination helps to assess the condition of the tissues in detail and determine the localization of pathological changes.

At the «Oxford Medical» clinic, CT of the cervical region of soft tissues is performed on GE Revolution Maxima and SIEMENS Healthineers SOMATOM go.Up tomographs. Modern equipment provides high image quality and allows detecting even minor changes.

You can undergo the examination in Kyiv on the right bank — near the Dorohozhychi metro station, as well as on the left bank — in Berezniaky. You can make an appointment for the examination by phone or through the callback form on the website.

CT of the soft tissues of the neck allows assessing the condition of structures located in this anatomical area.

During CT of the larynx and soft tissues of the neck, it is possible to assess:

• soft tissues and intertissue spaces;
• lymph nodes;
• pharynx, larynx and adjacent structures;
• condition of the airways in the neck area.

If necessary, CT of the throat is performed with contrast enhancement for a more accurate assessment of the boundaries of the pathological process and the condition of the tissues.

CT of the soft tissues of the neck helps clarify the nature of changes, their localization and spread to adjacent tissues. The examination may be useful in various inflammatory processes in the throat area, in particular if there is a suspicion of lymphadenitis or spread of the inflammatory process to surrounding tissues.

Doctors of «Oxford Medical» recommend not postponing the examination if symptoms persist for a long time, intensify or are accompanied by difficulty breathing, swallowing or noticeable enlargement of lymph nodes.

Before performing CT of soft tissues, the doctor takes into account the patient’s general health condition and possible contraindications to the examination, especially if administration of a contrast agent is planned.

The examination may be contraindicated in such cases:

• severe allergic reaction to iodine-containing contrast agents;
• pronounced impairment of kidney function;
• pregnancy, if there is no urgent need for the examination;
• a condition in which it is difficult for the patient to remain still during scanning.

Caution is needed for patients with bronchial asthma, diabetes mellitus, thyroid gland diseases or a tendency to allergic reactions. In such cases, the possibility of performing CT is assessed individually.

CT of the soft tissues of the neck is usually performed with contrast enhancement, so before the examination a blood test for creatinine may be needed to assess kidney function.

Before the procedure, it is recommended:

• not to consume food 4–6 hours before the examination, water can be drunk in a small amount;
• to wear comfortable clothing without metal elements in the examination area;
• to remove jewelry, hearing aids and other metal objects in the examination area;
• to report the presence of allergy, kidney diseases, thyroid gland diseases or diabetes mellitus.

Following these recommendations helps to perform the examination comfortably and obtain high-quality images.

During the examination, the patient lies down on the movable table of the computed tomograph. To obtain clear images, it is important to remain still, so the head and neck are fixed in a comfortable position.

After preparation, the table smoothly moves into the scanning area, where a series of layered images is performed. The procedure is painless and lasts only a few minutes.

During scanning, the tomograph creates detailed images of soft tissues, which allows assessing the localization of pathological changes, their size and spread to adjacent structures. After completion of the examination, the radiologist analyzes the obtained images and prepares a written conclusion.

In most cases, this examination is performed with intravenous contrast enhancement, since it allows more clearly assessing the boundaries of pathological changes, the condition of lymph nodes and the spread of the process to adjacent tissues.

Before the examination, a catheter is placed into a vein, through which the contrast agent is automatically injected. During its injection, a short-term sensation of warmth in the body or a metallic taste in the mouth is possible — this is a normal reaction that quickly passes.

The current price for CT of the soft tissues of the neck can be viewed here. At the «Oxford Medical» clinic, the examination is performed on expert-class tomographs GE Revolution Maxima and SIEMENS Healthineers SOMATOM go.Up, which allow obtaining detailed layered images of high quality.

You can undergo the examination in Kyiv on the right bank — near the Dorohozhychi metro station, as well as on the left bank — in Berezniaky. To make an appointment, contact the contact center or leave a request on the website.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.

Sources:

• American College of Radiology
• US National Library of Medicine