CT examination of the lumbosacral spine

CT – computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic method that uses X-rays to create detailed, three-dimensional images of internal organs and structures. During the scanning process, the patient is placed on a table that moves slowly through a cylindrical machine, through which X-rays pass from multiple angles. A special program then combines the resulting images to create a three-dimensional image of the body’s interior. CT is used in the diagnosis of various health problems, including the detection of tumors, traumatic injuries, blood clots, and other conditions. It is important to note that CT uses X-rays, which can represent a certain dose of radiation, so its use must be carefully considered in relation to the benefits and risks.

CT of the lumbosacral spine at the Atrijum Clinic in Sarajevo

• In the Atrium Polyclinic, a CT scan of the lumbosacral spine is performed on a modern CT scanner Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice.
• The CT scan of the lumbosacral spine on the Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice device has several advantages compared to other CT devices:
• High resolution: The Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice has high image resolution.
• Scanning speed: Thanks to the large number of detectors (in this case 160 slices), scanning is faster than on devices with fewer slices. This reduces the risk of motion artifacts, improves image quality, and reduces patient radiation exposure.
• Low radiation dose: Advanced image processing techniques, such as iterative reconstruction and the use of low-dose protocols, reduce the radiation dose needed to obtain high-quality images.
• Accurate diagnostics: High resolution and scanning speed enable precise diagnostics.
• Patient comfort: Faster scanning reduces the time spent in the scanner, improving patient comfort and reducing anxiety.

CT scan of the lumbosacral spine

The CT scan of the lumbosacral spine (lumbo-sacral, lower part) is a radiological examination that uses a CT device to capture images of the layers of the spine. Computer processing of the data provides diagnostic information about pathological changes in the lumbar-sacral part of the spine.

When is a CT scan of the lumbosacral spine performed?

• Some of the reasons why a doctor may indicate the need for a lumbosacral spine scan are:
• pain with tingling and burning, with or without spreading to one or both legs
• difficulty changing position
• spondylosis
• scoliosis
• herniated disc
• discopathy
• trauma
• degenerative changes
• deformities

Patient preparation for the CT scan of the lumbosacral spine
Before the examination, the patient should remove jewelry, piercings, and any other metal objects from the body. No special preparation is required for the lumbosacral spine scan. The patient lies in a supine position with a head support during the examination.

Exam procedure

During the scan, the patient is alone in the room with the CT device. The examination is performed on the Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160-slice device.
After positioning the patient, the radiology engineer plans the scanning field. The device is shaped like a large ring containing an X-ray tube and detectors. The table on which the patient lies moves back and forth. During the examination, it is very important that the patient remains completely still, as even the slightest movement affects the quality of the scan.
The room is equipped with sound, and the entire procedure is monitored by the radiology engineer who performs the scan.
If you are planning a pregnancy, it is best to have the examination done within the first 10 days of your menstrual cycle to avoid any harmful effects of radiation on a possible early pregnancy.

NOTE: Contrast medium, which is injected intravenously into the patient, is used only in cases when the doctor has indicated it and determined that there are no contraindications.