CT Cervical Spine without Contrast
About Test
CT (Computed Tomography) scan is an imaging modality that uses a series of X-rays taken from different angles and a computer to create cross-sectional images of internal body organs, bones, and soft tissues.
There are small bones in your body called vertebrae that are joined together to form the “spine.” The cervical spine refers to the part of the spine located in the back of your neck. It consists of 7 vertebrae named C-1 to C-7. The spine encloses your spinal cord, and in between each vertebra, there is an opening for the nerves to exit and supply the surrounding muscles and organs. With the help of a CT scan cervical spine, your doctor can see the vertebrae, spinal disks, spinal canal, and spinal cord.
No contrast material is used in CT scans without contrast.
Why and when do you need this test?
Some of the indications for a CT scan of the cervical spine include the following;
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or arms
- Neck muscles stiffness and limited mobility
- Tingling or Numbness in arms, hands, and fingers.
- Paralysis or Weakness in arms
- Headaches
- Trauma to the cervical spine
Do you need to prepare for the test?
You may eat or drink and take regular medicines according to your doctor’s advice.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, as X-rays can harm the baby.
What can you expect?
- You will be asked to lie down on the table that will slide into the CT scan machine that looks like a large donut with a tunnel.
- You need to lie down still and not move to prevent the images from getting blurry.
- You will be alone in the room but under the constant care of a technician across the glass window who will be talking to you.
- It is a painless procedure that lasts for about 15-30 minutes but may take longer.
Are there any risks to this test?
It is a non-invasive test that uses low doses of X-rays that poses no risks unless you are pregnant. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or have kidney disease.
What do the test results mean?
The abnormal results may include;
- Vertebral fractures
- Degenerative bone changes
- Osteoarthritis
- Deformities or congenital disabilities of the spine
- Infection or abscess
- Spinal cord compression
- slipped or Bulging spinal disks
- Tumors
- Unusual curves in the spine
- Narrowing of the spine compressing the spinal cord
Related Tests:
Other related tests may include:
- MRI scan of the spine
- X-ray of the spine
Frequently ordered together
MRI Cervical Spine with Contrast
MRI Cervical Spine without Contrast
MRI Cervical Spine with And without Contrast
CT Cervical Spine With & Without Contrast
X-Ray Cervical Spine 6V
X-Ray Cervical Spine 2-3V
X-Ray Cervical Spine 4-5V
X-Ray CERVICAL SPINE COMPLETE
X-Ray CERVICAL SPINE WITH OBLIQUES FLEXION EXTENSION
440.00$
515.00$
620.00$
620.00$
150.00$
140.00$
110.00$
95.00$
95.00$
