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•Radiology
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CT scan
CT scan
Skeletal spine
Skeletal spine
Vertebra, lumbar (low back)
Vertebra, lumbar...
Vertebra, thoracic (mid back)
Vertebra, thorac...
Lumbar vertebrae
Lumbar vertebrae
 
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•CT scan
•Cyst
•Tumor
•Herniated nucleus pulposus...
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Lumbosacral spine CT

Definition

A lumbosacral spine CT is a computed topography of the lower spine and surrounding tissues.

Alternative Names

Spinal CT; CT - lumbosacral spine

How the Test is Performed

The CT is performed with the patient lying face-up.

In some cases, an iodine-based contrast dye may be injected into a vein to help visualize tissues. In other cases, a CT of the lumbosacral spine may be performed after injecting contrast dye into the spinal canal during a lumbar puncture, to further check for pressure on the nerves.

The scan will usually last a few minutes.

How to Prepare for the Test

The patient should remove all jewelry or other metals that may cause inaccurate images.

How the Test Will Feel

The x-rays are painless. The primary discomfort may be from the need to lie still on the table.

If a contrast dye is given through a vein, you may initially feel a slight burning sensation in the injected arm, a metallic taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These sensations are normal and usually disappear within a few seconds.

Why the Test is Performed

A CT scan is an excellent tool for evaluating fractures and degenerative changes of the spine (such as from arthritis). MRI is a superior exam for imaging the spinal cord and intervertebral disks.

What Abnormal Results Mean

Conditions that may be revealed include:

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include osteomalacia.

Risks

  • Iodine is the usual contrast dye. Some patients are allergic to iodine and may have a reaction, including hives, itching, nausea, breathing difficulty, or other symptoms.
  • As with any x-ray examination, radiation is potentially harmful. Consult your health care provider about the risks if multiple CT scans are needed over a period of time.
  • Pregnant or breast-feeding women should consult their health care provider about the risk of CT scans to the fetus.
Review Date: 10/25/2006
Reviewed By: Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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