CT-Scanning : Back and Spine

The CT-scan, or COMPUTERIZED AXIAL TOMOGRAPHY, has become a revolutionary x-ray tool. In this test, a series of cross sectional x-rays are taken of the spine.

A computer takes this information and reconstructs detailed cross sectional anatomic images that are impossible with conventional x-rays. The detail provided is 10-20 times better than conventional films. Structures normally "invisible" on conventional films become clear on the CT-scan. This test is used often used in the evaluation of the spine (neck, upper and lower back regions) to assess the probability of disc disease of the spine.

* USES FOR CT-SCANNING OF THE SPINE *

1. SUSPECTED SPINE TUMORS

2. SUSPECTED SPINE FRACTURES

3. SPINAL CORD INJURY

4. EVALUATION OF PROLAPSED DISC IN THE NECK OR BACK

5. NARROWING OF SPINAL CANAL (spinal stenosis)

***** REMEMBER *****

1. If injectable contrast material is used, there is a small risk of allergic reaction. There is a very rare incidence of death from this reaction.

2. Intensity of radiation exposure is considered medium to high, as compared with other diagnostic x-ray studies.

MEDICAL TESTS

Abdominal Ultrasound
Abdominal X-Ray
Allergy Testing
Amniocentesis
Amylase Blood Test
Angiodynography
Angiogram
Arterial Blood Gases
Arthrocentesis
Arthrogram
Barium Enema
Blood Chemistry
Blood Coagulation Test
Blood Cultures
Blood Glucose Test
Blood Test Smac 25
Bone Marrow Biopsy Aspiration
Cardiac Catheterization Angioplasty
Cardiac Enzymes
Cholesterol Blood Test
Complete Blood Count
CT Scanning Back
CT Scanning Chest Abdomen
Drug Levels
Glucose Tolerance Test
Hepatitis Blood Test
HIV Blood Test
Kidney Biopsy
Kidney Blood Test
Lipoproteins
Liver Biopsy
Liver Blood Test
Lymph Node Biopsy
Mononucleosis Test
Paracentesis
Peritoneal Lavage
Pregnancy Blood Test
Prostate Specific Antigen
Skin Biopsy
Spine X-Rays
Thyroid Biopsy
Thyroid Blood Test
Toxicology