CT scan of the spine

Computed tomography of the spinal column is a fast and authoritative way to diagnose spine diseases. In addition to examining the entire spine, a CT scan of each of its sections is possible:

• CT of the cervical spine;
• Thoracic CT scan;
• CT scan of the lumbosacral spine;
• CT scan of the sacrum and coccyx.

Computed tomography of the spine provides a highly accurate layer-by-layer image of all anatomical structures that make up the spinal column.

Thanks to this, the doctor can carefully assess:

• the condition of the vertebral bodies - to detect the presence of osteophytes, cracks, fractures, bone defects or signs of osteoporosis;
• intervertebral discs - to see protrusions, hernias, reduced disc height;
• the spinal canal - to assess its diameter, the presence of stenosis or compression of the spinal cord;
• articular surfaces - to diagnose signs of arthrosis or spondyloarthritis;
• developmental anomalies - for example, non-union of the vertebral arches or additional segments;
• pathological neoplasms - both benign (cysts, hemangiomas) and malignant tumors;
• the consequences of injuries - including dislocations, vertebral displacements, compression fractures.

CT is particularly informative in cases of traumatic injuries, suspected tumor processes, deformities, as well as for monitoring postoperative condition or planning surgical intervention.

The examination can be performed either without the contrast agent necessary for obtaining images with increased sharpness, or with it. If a CT scan of the spine is performed without contrast, then there is no need for special preparation – the patient just needs to take off all metal accessories, devices and jewelry.

If CT is performed with the contrast agent, then a patient needs to stop eating and drinking fluids 4-6 hours before the study. It is also necessary to notify the doctor if you have an allergy to iodine and seafood, thyrotoxicosis, type 2 diabetes, kidney and cardiovascular diseases. In some cases they may be a contraindication for the examination, while in others, preparatory examinations are conducted. Diabetic patients are measured for blood sugar, patients with kidney diseases are tested for creatinine levels, and "heart patients" can have an ECG and blood pressure measured.

The patient lies face up on the slide-out table of the tomographic scanner, which is then pushed into the scanner tunnel. If CT is performed with the contrast agent, then before the procedure a catheter is installed in the patient's vein, through which an automatic injector supplies the necessary amount of the contrast agent. The injector eliminates the administration of insufficient or excessive amounts of contrast.

When the tomographic scanner table starts moving, the examination begins – the scanner takes a large number of images in different projections - the computer builds a detailed three-dimensional model of the spine on their basis. Studying it the doctor checks the presence and nature of deviations from the norm.

During the procedure the doctor stays in the adjacent room, watching the patients through a special window and communicating with them with the help of a special intercom device. The patient does not experience any pain during the procedure. When a contrast agent is introduced, a salty or metallic taste may appear in the mouth or a slight feeling of being unwell, but these symptoms quickly pass.

After the procedure the patient is given received images with the results of the study and the conclusion of the diagnostician.

You can make an appointment for a CT scan of the spine at the «Oxford Medical» clinic in Kiev by calling or writing to the chat operator on the website.

The prices for a CT scan of the spine may vary depending on:

• how many sections of the spine are examined;

• whether or not contrast enhancement is used.

You can find out the prices for CT scans of the lumbar spine and other sections of the spine at «Oxford Medical» here. At CT with contrast in Kyiv - price is somewhat higher due to the need to use a special drug with a contrast agent. 

Computed tomography of the back is performed on a new high-precision tomograph Siemens Somatom Go.UP. With minimal radiation exposure, it provides a 64-slice scan of the spine with a step of 0.7 mm. Its images can diagnose pathological changes and neoplasms from 1 mm in size.