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Recurrent, severe back pain may have various causes. And although we usually ignore its ailments when it makes it impossible to move and walk normally, it should be diagnosed as soon as possible. One of the tests that allow you to make a correct diagnosis is computed tomography of the spine. What is the course of the study and how does it look like?
Computed tomography – what is it?
Computed tomography is a study that thanks the use of x-rays allows you to make an accurate picture of the bone and soft tissues in the patient’s body.
To carry out a computed tomography examination, an apparatus is used, consisting of a special bed for a patient and a gantry. When the patient lies down in bed, he rides into the gantry and only then the examination can begin. X-ray tubes are placed on a round head. During the examination, the head remains stationary, but the table on which the patient is located moves.
This movement is automated, slow, and safe. It allows the lamps to create a series of photos of the patient’s spine, which are able to capture even the smallest structures in the spine, the diameter of which does not exceed 1 mm. These photos are processed to create a three-dimensional image of the part of the body being examined. Thanks to the examination, an image is obtained in three planes.
Computed tomography is a non-invasive examination. In some cases, however, especially when cancer is suspected, a substance called contrast agent must be given to the patient intravenously. Thanks to it, it is possible to visualize the smallest elements and irregularities.
Indications for computed tomography of the spine
Any pain in the area of the spine, especially the strong and often recurring one, as well numb limbs and recurring mobility problems should be promptly consulted with a specialist. The correct diagnosis will certainly be facilitated by computed tomography of the spine. The most common indications for its implementation include:
- post-traumatic conditions, especially those in which damage to the spine or spinal cord is suspected;
- degenerative changes in the spine;
- suspicion of prolapsed intervertebral disc;
- suspicion of neoplastic infiltrates on the spine;
- searching for the causes of back pain and abnormalities in the functioning of the musculoskeletal system.
Contraindications to computed tomography of the spine
It is important to know that during computed tomography the patient is subjected to several times more radiation than in the case of regular X-ray examinations. For this reason, one of the absolute contraindications is the patient’s pregnancy. It is assumed that tomography of a pregnant patient can be performed only if the condition is life-threatening. However, they must be aware of this and give their consent to perform the test on their own.
Other contraindications include overactive thyroid gland, impaired kidney function and allergy to intravenous contrast.
Preparation of the patient for computed tomography of the spine
It is important to know that performing computed tomography requires special preparation from the patient. It should be remembered that the last meal should be eaten at least 6-8 hours before the planned examination. This is due to a possible need contrast injectionwhich can only be given on an empty stomach.
At the same time, you should properly hydrate your body. It is recommended that the patient drink at least 3 liters of non-carbonated water 2 hours before the examination. The examination itself does not require taking the clothes off, so it is worth choosing a comfortable outfit that does not restrict your movements. We will certainly be asked to remove all jewelery and remove all items from our pockets that could disturb the course of the examination and distort its image.
If we have to perform a contrast test in the recommendation, we should necessarily bring the current one with us TSH test results and creatinine. They will be needed because the contrast administered to patients contains iodine, which is not indifferent to the thyroid gland. It is excreted in the urine, and the creatinine level will help in assessing the condition of the kidneys and whether they are able to cope with its excretion.
Abnormal blood test results are one contraindication to the test. If the contrast is given to a breastfeeding woman, make sure not to feed the baby for 24 hours after administration and discard the expressed milk.
The course of computed tomography of the spine
You should be aware that the test itself takes up to several dozen minutes. After completing all formalities and informing the patient about the course of the examination, presenting documents and results, the patient qualified for the examination will be asked to lie on a special bed, which is part of the tomography machine.
If you suffer from claustrophobia, you should inform the person performing the test in advance – in many such cases, the patient is given sedatives that allow the test to be performed safely. This is important because for a reliable result, the patient must lie still throughout the test and carefully follow the instructions of the technician performing the test.
To help the patient lie still, special rollers and sponges are often used to relieve the limbs. The device also has LEDs that let the patient know when to hold their breath. During the examination, the bed with the patient lying on it moves in and out of the gantry.
After the end of the test, the patient who was given the contrast should remain in the clinic where the test was performed for several dozen minutes. For 2 days after the test, you should also drink more water than usual to help the contrast medium pass out.
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