Benefits vs Risks of a Spine CT

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 scanning is painless, noninvasive and accurate.
A major advantage of CT is its ability to image bone, soft tissue and blood vessels all at the same time.
Unlike conventional X-rays, CT scanning provides very detailed images of many types of tissue as well as the lungs, bones and blood vessels.
CT examinations are fast and simple; in emergency cases, they can reveal internal injuries and bleeding quickly to help save lives.
CT has been shown to be a cost-effective imaging tool for a wide range of clinical problems.
CT is less sensitive to patient movement than MRI.
CT can be performed if you have an implanted medical device of any kind, unlike MRI.
CT imaging provides real-time imaging, making it a good tool for guiding minimally invasive procedures such as needle biopsies and needle aspirations of many areas of the body, particularly the lungs, abdomen, pelvis and bones.
A diagnosis determined by CT scanning may eliminate the need for exploratory surgery and surgical biopsy.
No radiation remains in a patient's body after a CT examination.
X-rays used in CT scans usually have no side effects.

There is always a slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation. However, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk.
The effective radiation dose from this procedure is about the same as the average person receives from background radiation in two years.
Women should always inform their physician and x-ray or CT technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
CT scanning is, in general, not recommended for pregnant women unless medically necessary because of potential risk to the baby.
Nursing mothers should wait for 24 hours after contrast material injection before resuming breast-feeding.

Sky Ridge Imaging Centers