Computed tomography of the sacrum. CT examination of the lumbosacral spine - preparation for tomography and interpretation. Features of the examination

> CT scan of the lumbosacral spine

A CT scan of the lumbosacral spine allows you to study in detail the structure of this area, see all the features of cartilage and bone tissue, and also monitor the condition of the spinal cord. This technique is also used to monitor the functioning of blood vessels and the nervous system in this area. The examination has become widespread, since the lower back bears the greatest mechanical load, which is associated with a person’s upright posture.

The need for computer diagnostics arises when there is frequent pain in this area. Numbness of the lower extremities, tension in the back, fatigue, fatigue are also possible. As a rule, other examinations are carried out first. If they turned out to be insufficiently informative, then a computed tomography is prescribed.

Indications

A referral for examination is issued by an orthopedist, rheumatologist or neurologist. The main task of the examination is to identify the disease that led to the appearance of these symptoms. Typically this is:

Spinal injuries and bruises
Cracks, fractures, chips
Deformations, curvatures
Tumors, neoplasms
Intervertebral hernia
Pinched nerve endings
Osteoporosis
Osteochondrosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal, etc.

The procedure is also necessary before surgery, as it allows you to see all the anatomical features and thereby avoid complications during surgery. At the same time, the doctor studies the features of the abdominal organs. Sometimes it turns out that the cause of pain is not problems with the spine, but kidney stones.

Contraindications

CT scanning is strictly prohibited for pregnant women, since even a small dosage has a detrimental effect on the condition of the fetus. The examination in most cases involves contrast enhancement, so it is prohibited for patients with allergies to the components of this substance, as well as with serious diseases of the kidneys, heart, and endocrine system. Scanning obese people is difficult - the device is designed for a mass of up to 130-140 kilograms, so the patient’s body may not fit at all.

Preparation

During the examination of the lumbosacral region, the internal organs of the abdominal cavity and small pelvis also enter the field of view of the tomograph. The doctor gets the opportunity to assess their condition at the same time. Such a “random” examination has more than once allowed medicine to identify serious pathologies of internal organs, although the original purpose of the study was different. In this regard, the intestines and bladder should be prepared for examination. The patient is recommended to follow a diet for 2-3 days before the procedures: it is necessary to exclude products that produce increased gas from food. On the day of the scan, you should avoid eating altogether - do not drink or eat 5-6 hours before the scan. Sometimes the doctor recommends drinking a liter of water 1.5-2 hours before and not going to the toilet - the bladder should be full. You may need to do an enema.

How do they do it?

The procedure is painless and does not cause much discomfort. The patient lies on the tomograph table, which smoothly moves him inside the scanning ring. The device takes a series of pictures in several projections, which is accompanied by slight noise. At this time, the medical staff is watching what is happening from the next room. If contrast is used, it is administered 15 minutes before the start of the tomograph. In some cases, contrast is introduced in the middle of the examination, first taking several photographs without enhancement.

The patient's task is to remain completely still while the scanner is operating. If necessary, use soft fixing belts that allow you to achieve this without unnecessary effort.

Using Contrast

Contrast enhancement is used if it is necessary to assess the condition of blood vessels, soft tissues, and lymph nodes. Traditionally, computed tomography uses iodine-based preparations, which make the vessels and organs of the abdominal cavity visible. The drug is administered intravenously and quickly penetrates the soft tissues without disturbing their structure. In rare cases, patients develop an allergy to the components of the substance. This is manifested by itching, nausea, and headache. If symptoms worsen, the patient should inform the doctor through the built-in loudspeaker.

Normally, contrast is removed from the body within 1.5-2 days. To do this, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids.

Advantages of the method

The intensity of the X-rays used during the scan is very low. So tomography is safe for health.
The procedure takes no more than 10 minutes if performed without contrast, and about 30 with enhancement.
As a result of the examination, a three-dimensional digital image is created, which, if desired, can be recorded on digital media or printed.
It is possible to enlarge the image thanks to high-precision resolution.
The diagnostic accuracy is very high. As a rule, after a computed tomography scan there is no need for other types of examination.

Possible risks

The main danger is associated with x-ray radiation to which the subject is exposed. But a small dosage cannot have any significant effect on human health. However, it is recommended to conduct CT scans at certain intervals or replace these types of studies with non-radiation options. There is also some risk when using contrast. In case of development of an atypical reaction to the components of the drug, the doctor always has antihistamines on hand to help take emergency first aid measures.

Alternatives

Diagnosis of spinal diseases is also possible using other methods. Among radiation methods, conventional radiography is actively used, which allows one to see the structural features of bone and cartilage structures and detect fractures and cracks. MSCT is also popular - a radiological study characterized by a reduced radiation dosage and greater information content.

Among non-radiological techniques, MRI is especially popular - in its information content it is only slightly inferior to computed tomography. The peculiarities of the functioning of all parts of the spine are also studied during a comprehensive examination using PET CT. This is a nuclear medicine technique that has recently become popular, but has not received sufficient distribution.

Price

The price of a lumbosacral CT scan averages 7-8 thousand. The amount fluctuates both up and down. It depends on the class of equipment used, the status of the clinic, whether contrast is needed or not. MSCT and MRI are a little more expensive, for which in different clinics you will have to pay between 5-14 thousand rubles. The record holder for cost is PET CT. But the price includes a comprehensive examination of the entire body: the entire skeleton, cardiovascular system, internal organs.

Computed tomography (CT for short) is one of the most accurate diagnostic methods. CT allows you to obtain a detailed picture of the condition of the spine for an accurate diagnosis.

Lumbosacral spine

Spinal diseases

Problems with the spine can appear at any age; no one is immune from them. Back pain is usually caused by:

presence of injuries;
poor posture;
lack of physical activity;
older age of the patient.

If there is a spinal injury, there is a risk of a compression fracture. It is impossible to detect a compression fracture during an external examination, so additional examinations are necessary, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Poor posture can lead to deformation of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, which, in turn, causes various structural changes in the spinal column.

Due to lack of physical activity, metabolic processes are disrupted and the structure of the cartilage layer changes. Due to the thinning of the cartilage, friction between the discs increases, which leads to the development of an inflammatory process and is accompanied by pain. Osteochondrosis occurs in people of any age group. As the body ages, structural changes in the spinal column occur, which may be accompanied by pain.

Various spinal diseases require detailed diagnostics for an accurate diagnosis. X-rays are often not enough, so patients are prescribed computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

CT or MRI?

Today, there are two accurate diagnostic methods for determining the condition of the spine - a computer examination and magnetic resonance imaging.

MRI works on the principle of magnetic stimulation of tissue. This method allows you to clearly see changes in soft tissues, therefore it is often used to examine the condition of nervous tissue, ligaments and muscles.

MRI examination device

CT scan works on the principle of x-rays. During the examination, a computer analyzes information about the absorption of X-rays by bone tissue. The examination allows you to get a clear picture of the condition of the patient’s bone and cartilage tissue, and is intended to diagnose diseases of the spine and joints.

Sometimes, for a comprehensive examination, for example, with infectious inflammation of the joints, both diagnostic methods are indicated. In this case, CT helps determine the condition of cartilage and bone tissue, and MRI helps to exclude the spread of inflammation to the soft tissue around the joint.

Indications for examination

A CT scan of the lumbosacral spine is prescribed if the presence of the following diseases and conditions is suspected:

any injuries;
acute pain syndrome in the lumbar region;
assessment of the condition of the spine before surgery and in the postoperative period;
osteoporosis;
osteochondrosis;
vertebral deformity;
oncological diseases.

In some cases, a CT scan of the lumbosacral spine is performed in the presence of a hernia, if MRI is not enough to assess the condition of the spinal column and discs.

Features of the examination

CT is based on the transmission of tissue with short-length X-rays. The low intensity of radiation during the examination does not harm the body, so there are no restrictions on the frequency of CT scanning.

To perform a tomography, the patient lies down on a special table that moves inside the tunnel. If there is no need to administer contrast, the entire procedure takes no more than three to four minutes, during which the lumbar area is irradiated.

CT examination device

Contrast is administered intravenously, if necessary, a more detailed examination of the tissues around the vertebrae. When using contrast, the duration of the procedure increases to twenty minutes. The contrast contains iodine, so the patient should warn the doctor about possible intolerance to this substance. In this case, the administered drug will be replaced with a hypoallergenic one, which does not contain iodine.

During the examination, the staff leaves the room and the patient is left alone. In some cases, the patient is additionally fixed with soft rollers to avoid accidental sudden movements during the procedure. The table moves slowly into the tomograph tunnel, while the patient can hear a slight noise from the equipment.

The peculiarity of CT scanning is the absence of unpleasant sensations during the procedure.

Although the staff leaves the room during the procedure, the patient can contact the doctor if necessary. The tomograph is equipped with a doctor call button. If the patient becomes ill while inside the device, the doctor can stop the procedure.

Preparing for the examination

Computed tomography is performed only on an empty stomach. This avoids accidental distortion of the results.

It is also recommended not to eat heavy food two days before the expected date of the examination - this will prevent excessive gas formation, which can negatively affect the reliability of the results. The night before, you need to give an enema to cleanse your intestines. This is done only before examining the lumbosacral region.

If it is necessary to use contrast, the substance is injected into the patient’s vein immediately before the examination. When examining the lumbosacral region, women must be given a hygienic swab soaked in a contrast agent.

How contrast is administered

Before undergoing the procedure, the patient must get rid of any metal jewelry.

The examination of the lumbosacral region is performed with a full bladder, so the patient should drink plenty of fluids before the procedure.

Contraindications

Computed tomography of the spine has virtually no contraindications. The low intensity of X-rays does not affect the patient’s well-being in any way.

No studies have been conducted on the effect of the procedure on the fetus, so tomography is not prescribed to pregnant women. A computer examination is not performed if plaster or metal splints are applied to the area being examined. The procedure is also contraindicated in acute renal failure.

The design features of the device do not allow examination of a patient weighing more than 120-150 kg, depending on the model of the tomograph. However, there is equipment designed for weights up to 200 kg. The cost of such a tomograph is much higher, so the equipment is rare and not all clinics have it.

The procedure may be contraindicated due to the patient's mental instability or the presence of mental disorders. You should discuss with your doctor the advisability of tomography if the patient is afraid of closed spaces (claustrophobia).

If you have diabetes, the patient must notify the attending physician. Diabetes mellitus is a contraindication for the use of contrast during examination.

Advantages and disadvantages

Computed tomography was well tolerated. During the examination, the patient does not feel any discomfort or pain. When a contrast agent is injected, dizziness and confusion may occur, but this effect is temporary and disappears within half an hour.

Results obtained using CT

Video. MRI or CT?

CT scans can be performed on patients of any age. For examining children, the tomograph provides the ability to reduce the radiation intensity. The method allows you to accurately identify spinal diseases even at the initial stage and simplifies the diagnosis. In this case, the body is not harmed, as with radiography, and the CT results obtained are characterized by maximum reliability.

The coccyx is the end of the spinal column, consisting of 3-5 fused vertebrae. It is curved slightly forward and has the shape of a cone, tapering downward. The pelvic floor muscles, some fibers of the buttocks and bundles of the anus are attached to the coccyx. This arrangement of the final element of the spine ensures its participation in the work of the hip joints and pelvic organs. Part of the load during rear bending is removed from the spine due to the structure of the coccyx.

Magnetic resonance imaging

An MRI of the coccyx is performed to identify pathologies of bones, muscles and ligaments. The study is safe for humans; it allows you to visualize those areas of the body that cannot be studied by other methods. MRI can replace lumbar puncture, angiography and myelography - rather painful diagnostic methods.

Indications and contraindications

Since the coccyx is involved in many human life processes, damage to it can cause serious consequences for the performance of certain activities. Symptoms for which the doctor sends the patient for an MRI of the tailbone:

pain in the lower back and buttocks;
adopting a forced posture due to discomfort when sitting;
increasing pain in the coccyx area when moving;
numbness of the legs;
limited mobility of the sacrococcygeal region.

Even a short-term manifestation of one of these signs indicates the need for diagnostic procedures.

Contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging:

late stage heart failure;
first trimester pregnancy;
the presence of implanted artificial valves or a pacemaker in the patient’s heart;
installed Ilizarov apparatus;
the presence of intracranial metal clips.

Preparation

In order not to distort the results of the study, the doctor gives the subject certain instructions in advance. Preparing for an MRI of the coccyx:

2-3 days in advance, give up products that cause gas formation;
the day before the procedure, do not drink coffee, which increases the load on the kidneys;
do not eat for 12 hours before diagnosis;
Before the procedure, familiarize yourself with the procedure for performing tomography, change into loose clothing without metal elements;
remove accessories and jewelry;
do not take a mobile phone or other devices that are sources of electromagnetic radiation into the research room;
if it is necessary to use a contrast agent, a test for allergic reactions should be done before the procedure;
analyze the condition of the kidneys;
for claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces), the patient is given sedatives to calm him down.

Before the examination, the doctor gives the patient brief instructions on how to behave in the device. A person is brought into a room, asked to lie down on a special extendable table and secured with belts. The couch is pushed inside the scanning device. The procedure lasts 10-40 minutes. During the scan, the doctor monitors the patient through a camera and gives important instructions through a microphone.

Decoding the results

Only a qualified radiologist trained in MRI diagnostics should interpret the examination data. The results are transmitted to the patient in the form of black and white images. The second copy remains with the doctor for diagnosis.

Based on the results of the image, the specialist conducts a conversation with the patient and prescribes a course of therapy. Often the doctor needs advice from other specialists. Patients are not recommended to interpret the images themselves and choose treatment based on the data obtained.

MRI can be done in large clinics with trained staff and a tomograph. The approximate price of an MRI of the coccyx is 2.5-5 thousand rubles.

CT scan

A CT scan of the tailbone lasts 10-30 minutes. The administration of contrast before the study is carried out as prescribed by the doctor. No special preparation is required before the procedure.

The popularity of computed tomography is explained by the following advantages:

diagnostic information content;
high research speed;
low risks for the patient;
obtaining an image in the form of a 3D model of the area under study;
the ability to clearly see small details;
the ability to identify lesions of bone structures and soft tissues.

Such advantages of using CT of the coccyx make it possible to conduct research for injuries of the sacral and lumbar spine.

Indications

Since there is no division into large vertebrae in the coccyx, CT is prescribed during its examination less often than other methods of studying the spine. The procedure is a clarifying one and is carried out after radiography.

When scanning the coccyx layer by layer, the doctor obtains several images of the area under study and nearby tissues. Most often, cracks and fractures of the lower spine are diagnosed, as well as other pathological changes in bone structures resulting from injuries.

CT scan of the coccyx shows:

dislocations in the sacrococcygeal joint;
malformations of bone structures;
penetration of soft tissue between bone fragments after injury;
tumor processes of the coccyx and sacrum, foci of metastases;
osteochondrosis;
destruction of the sacrum as a result of tuberculosis or the formation of metastases;
osteoporosis;
narrowing or widening of the lumen of the end portion of the spinal canal.

Preparation and execution

To increase the reliability of the results before the procedure, the patient performs a number of simple steps:

within a few days he switches to a certain diet to eliminate the processes of gas formation in the gastrointestinal tract;
an hour before the procedure, drinks a significant amount of water to fill the bladder;
in some cases, on the recommendation of a doctor, he takes a carminative drug that eliminates the problem of flatulence;
empties the intestines;
A prerequisite for the accuracy of the study is refusal to eat 6 hours before the CT scan.

Such preparation does not cause any difficulties, so patients willingly comply with all conditions.

The examination is carried out using a tomograph, which consists of a tube with X-ray emitters and a retractable table on which the patient lies. To minimize the movements of the subject, he is secured with belts. Breathing during a CT scan should be controlled so that the abdomen and chest practically do not move.

The results are deciphered by a radiation diagnostics doctor or radiologist. He describes what changes have occurred in the tissues and makes a conclusion. The diagnosis can be made by the attending physician based on the clinical picture of the disease, as well as laboratory data. Transcription takes from 30 to 60 minutes. Sometimes the results are communicated to the patient the next day.

The cost of a CT scan of the coccyx starts from 2000 rubles. The study is carried out in clinics where there is a tomograph and trained personnel to carry out the procedure. To find out exactly how much the procedure costs, you should contact the nearest medical center that has the necessary equipment.

Comparison of two methods

When performing CT and MRI, in each case a three-dimensional image of the coccyx is obtained in the form of layer-by-layer sections. It can be rotated to study the structure in a certain projection. The main differences between the methods are that they allow the detection of different diseases, and the study uses certain radiation.

When examining disorders of the soft tissues located near the coccyx, MRI is often performed, since it is more informative in such cases. CT is useful for examining bone structures.

In some cases, a new MSCT method is used to study the sacral spine. The advanced tomograph has more x-ray sources, which allows the examination to be carried out much faster than with MRI. The method is more informative when studying the condition of bone structures and joints.

Computed tomography of the coccyx is one of the most informative methods in identifying bone pathology in this area. The ability to study thin sections, as well as the availability of special modern image processing programs, make it possible to obtain high-quality tomograms of the scanned area.

Advantages of CT compared to conventional radiography

It should be noted that, in comparison with conventional radiography, the radiation dose to the patient with CT is less, and the diagnostic capabilities are tens of times higher. Also, computed tomography has the ability to construct a three-dimensional reconstruction of the scanned area, which is of enormous importance, especially in case of space-occupying formations. Since it allows you to determine the boundaries of the spread of the tumor, the involvement of surrounding tissues in the pathological process, which is very important for assessing the stage of the disease and deciding on further treatment tactics.

Computed tomography has a number of advantages that make it one of the most effective diagnostic methods

Also, tomographic examination of the coccygeal zone allows one to highly accurately visualize bone structures, both in normal and pathological conditions, to identify destructive tumor and inflammatory processes, as well as traumatic changes.

If we compare CT and MRI of the coccyx, then magnetic resonance imaging is indicated for suspected soft tissue pathological conditions in this area, as well as in cases where it is impossible to conduct a computer study.

In what situations is a CT scan of the coccyx indicated:

suspicion of degenerative lesions in this area;
coccyx injury;
suspicion of destructive changes in the coccyx identified by other radiation methods of examination;
to identify developmental anomalies;
search for metastases in the pelvic bones (including in the coccyx - for example, in men with prostate cancer; in women - with breast cancer);
diagnosis of pain in the sacrococcygeal region;
suspected mass formation of the coccyx;
differential diagnosis of benign and malignant tumors.

Contraindications to computer examination of the coccyx:

Before the procedure, an anamnesis of contraindications is always collected and a decision is made on the advisability of the procedure.

pregnancy (and the study is contraindicated at any time; can be carried out only in emergency cases - for health reasons, if other methods of radiation imaging do not provide adequate information to establish a diagnosis);
age up to 14 years (it must be noted that computed tomography to examine the coccyx can be performed on children according to strict indications, if other radiation studies have proven insufficient to diagnose pathological changes in this area);
the patient’s body weight is greater than the permissible values for a given tomography table (computer tomographs have different restrictions on the weight of the subject).

Examination of the coccyx using CT is not recommended if the patient has involuntary movements (hyperkinesis), as well as with very severe pain. This is due to the fact that the patient will not be able to lie still, and motion artifacts will significantly reduce the quality of computer images.

CT examination with artificial contrast

In complex diagnostic cases, a contrast study is required. In this case, drugs containing iodine (omnipaque, iopamiro) are used. Artificial contrast increases the diagnostic capabilities of the method. It is indicated, first of all, for differentiating the nature of the tumor (benign or malignant), as well as for cancer to assess the extent of the pathological process.

Carefully! Tomography with contrast is contraindicated for persons with an allergy to iodine, renal failure, or severe diseases of internal organs in the stage of decompensation.

Considering the fact that the contrast agent passes into breast milk, nursing women are advised to avoid breastfeeding for 2 days after the procedure.

Preparation for the procedure

The main thing is that this study does not require any complex preparation of the subject. However, two to three days before the tomography, it is undesirable to eat foods containing fiber. Before the examination, it is necessary to remove clothing containing any metal parts and remove all unnecessary items from pockets (especially metal objects).

Do not forget to bring with you a referral for a computed tomography scan, extracts from outpatient records, medical histories, photographs and reports of previous radiation studies, as well as any other medical documentation related to the pathology of the coccyx.

If the patient follows all the rules and strictly follows the doctor’s advice, the procedure will be easy and quick.

To summarize, it can be noted that computed tomography examination of the coccyx has both pros and cons. A positive aspect of the study is the high accuracy of visualization of bone structures; the negative aspects include the presence of radiation exposure, which limits its use in childhood and makes it practically impossible during pregnancy.

Computed tomography is one of the most revealing ways to diagnose bone and joint diseases. Patients with back problems are often referred to a CT scan - thanks to it, the doctor can examine in great detail the obvious and hidden pathologies of this part of the skeleton.

If your doctor has ordered a CT scan of the lower spine, it is important to follow his recommendations in order to obtain informative test results. Let's figure out how the study is carried out, what its indications are, and what the tomogram shows.

Indications for computed tomography of the back

Tomography of the back is prescribed in various cases: if spinal diseases are suspected, before surgery, to identify pathologies, if the patient complains of back pain. We list the most likely indications for CT of the lumbosacral spine:

postoperative monitoring of the patient's condition;
suspicion of intervertebral hernia, pinched nerve endings;
checking the condition of the spine after injury, bruise;
lower back pain of unknown etiology;
numbness of the limbs;
headaches, the cause of which may be back diseases.

Contraindications for the study

Despite its high diagnostic value, the CT procedure is not prescribed to all patients, as it has contraindications. Computed tomography is a study of the human skeleton and internal organs using x-rays. In this case, the session involves taking not one, but a series of images with a given slice width. This leads to an increase in radiation exposure.

X-ray examinations are not prescribed for pregnant women, as well as people with cancer, so as not to provoke tumor growth. Also, the procedure is contraindicated in patients with an allergy to iodine if the procedure is planned with the introduction of contrast. Contrast testing is not performed on persons with liver or kidney pathologies and children under 14 years of age.

There are other contraindications that are considered indirect. A doctor may refuse to scan a patient with a history of epilepsy, seizures, or mental disorders. Also, such examinations are not performed for people weighing more than 200 kg, however, this limitation is due to the model of the device.

How should a patient prepare for an examination?

No special preparation is needed for the procedure. However, when diagnosing the lumbosacral spine, the doctor during a computed tomography session will see not only the spine, but also the patient’s pelvic organs - additional examination should not be neglected.

So that the doctor can assess the condition of the bladder and intestines, it is advisable to follow a diet 2 days before the procedure - do not eat foods that cause gas formation. Before your back CT scan you should not eat for at least 3-4 hours. The bladder should be full, so there is no need to urinate before the procedure.

Before entering the CT room, you should get rid of metal jewelry, as it can distort the results of the study. Also, sometimes the laboratory assistant asks the patient to remove clothes so that folds of fabric do not appear on the pictures.

Procedure for performing a CT scan for the lumbosacral region

Examination of the spine, in particular the lumbosacral region, is performed in a short time, unlike other examination methods (MRI, ultrasound), and can take from 5 to 15 minutes. In this case, the X-ray tube operates for a maximum of 30 seconds. The most time is required for studies with the introduction of contrast - about 30 minutes.

The patient is invited to the X-ray room and asked to lie on the couch equipped with the CT machine. Then the medical staff goes into the next room and turns on the device. The couch “drives” into a ring equipped with an X-ray tube and detectors, which rotates to take a series of pictures. The photos are processed and transmitted to the monitor screen, and the doctor can see the results of the study in real time.

During the session you should lie still. If a person is suffering from panic attacks, the doctor may pre-administer a sedative. However, this is not done often, since the duration of the examination is short.

After the procedure is completed, the patient is asked to wait a while or come back for a radiologist’s report later. The doctor will carefully examine the images and hand them over to the patient along with the report. Next, the person goes to the doctor, who wrote out a referral for research.

Should you always use contrast?

Contrast in CT scans of the spine is used to obtain a more accurate picture, but in most cases the procedure can be performed without the use of contrast.

The drug is administered in two ways - into a vein in the forearm or into the lumbar region (myelography). In addition, contrast can be injected manually or using an injection syringe. The automated version is used in more modern devices; it allows you to get the most accurate picture.

if the previous native study (without contrast) is uninformative and the doctor still has questions;
if there is a suspicion of a tumor;
the doctor wants to assess the nature of the tumor - malignant or not;
the contrast will help you see the blood flow and examine the smallest vessels.

CT scan of the lumbosacral region with contrast is performed according to a certain scheme. First, the scan is performed without administering the drug, then after the injection. This helps the doctor assess the rate at which the vessels are filled with blood, as well as the nature of the detected tumors.

According to experts, CT without contrast is less informative than MRI if you need to conduct a high-quality examination of soft tissues. If the doctor wants to get a good look at the bone structures, contrast injection may not be necessary.

How often can a tomography be done?

Computed tomography involves some radiation exposure to the body, so it is often not advisable to do it. In one session, the patient can receive a radiation dose comparable to the annual norm. However, much depends on the CT machine - the more modern the device, the lower the dose of radiation the patient receives.

It is not recommended to do a CT scan more often than once every six months. If a re-examination is required, the doctor decides how much the risk from radiation compares with the consequences of making an incorrect diagnosis. In addition, some diseases are amenable to alternative types of diagnostics - MRI, ultrasound.

Advantages of SCT scanner

Spiral computed tomography is a type of CT and is considered less dangerous for the patient. The radiation exposure during this study is reduced, and the procedure lasts only 5-10 minutes.

The difference between SCT and CT is that the couch with the patient during the session moves in a straight line - forward and backward, depending on the required angle of the photo. The ring, equipped with an X-ray tube and sensors, makes one revolution around the patient. As a result, the pictures are taken not in a straight cut, but in a spiral.

Diseases detected using CT images

CT is one of the most progressive research techniques. Computed tomography is used to detect a number of diseases that are difficult to diagnose without equipment.

In addition, CT allows one to evaluate the histology of tumors, which was previously only done through biopsy or exploratory surgery. We list the diseases that computed tomography can detect:

fractures and bruises of the vertebrae;
neoplasms;
pathological growths of bone tissue;
Bekhterev's disease - fusion of vertebral bones;
abnormal mobility of the bones of the spine;
congenital and acquired anomalies of the spinal column;
osteoporosis;
spinal stenosis.

The listed pathologies are quite dangerous conditions, and their timely detection provides a chance for a favorable treatment outcome. CT scanning is a sought-after procedure, and the benefits of its results far outweigh the risk of excessive radiation exposure.