Cervical Spine CT - Overview & Technique

A computed tomography (CT) scan of the cervical spine is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the neck. Cervical Spine CT is performed in the radiology department scanning room, with the patient lying flat (supine) on a CT table. The head is placed in a comfortable ‘docking pillow’ and the CT scanner gantry (donut) passess over and around the patient to perform the scan. The gantry travels over the patient from the level of the jaw to the upper shoulders to create the scan.

Cervical Spine CT - Alternative Names and Explanations

CT Scan of the Cervical Spine, Cervical Spine CAT scan, CT Scan -  Cervical Spine w/o contrast 72125, CT Scan -  Cervical Spine with contrast 72126, CT Scan -  Cervical Spine with & w/o contrast 72127

Cervical Spine CT - Benefits (versus Other Diagnostic Options)

• Spinal CT scanning is a rapid procedure and offers an accurate evaluation of bone and most soft tissues. Using the latest equipment, the spine may be displayed in multiple planes and three-dimensional imaging is an option.
• CT can highlight the bony changes associated with degenerative spondylosis (arthritis).
• CT is better than MRI at detecting fractures of the cervical spine.
• CT scan is better in emergency cases, because it is faster and usually available right in the emergency room.

CT of the Cervical Spine - Indications, Common Uses, & Positive Findings

• CT scanning of the spine is  performed to detect—or rule out—spinal column damage in patients who have been injured.
• evaluate the spine before and after surgery.
• detect various types of tumor in the vertebral column, including those that have spread there from another area of the body. Some tumors that arise elsewhere are first identified by finding deposits of malignant cells (metastases) in the vertebrae; prostate cancer is an example.
• help diagnose spinal pain. One of the most common causes of spinal pain that may be diagnosed by CT is a herniated intervertebral disk, sometime with CT myelography.
• accurately measure bone density in the spine and predict whether vertebral fractures are likely to occur in patients who are at risk of osteoporosis.
• guide diagnostic procedures such as the biopsy of a suspicious area to detect cancer, or the removal of fluid from a localized infection (abscess).

CT Cervical Spine - Images

CT Cervical Spine - References, Links, and Additional Information

Schedule Your Cervical Spine CT Scan Today! 

• If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

• If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a CT, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

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