CT scan of the thoracic 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.

Thoracic spine CT at the Atrijum Clinic in Sarajevo

In the Atrium Polyclinic, a CT scan of the thoracic spine is performed on a modern CT scanner Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice.

The CT scan of the thoracic 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.

What is the thoracic spine?

The thoracic spine is located in the upper and middle parts of the back. Twelve vertebrae are located in the thoracic spine and are labeled from T-1 to T-12. Each of these corresponds to the nerves in that part of the spinal cord. The thoracic spine is responsible for stability and helps keep the body upright. It connects the cervical spine located in the neck area and the lumbar spine located in the lower back. It is also surrounded by muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments that assist with movement and flexibility. Your spinal cord runs through the center of the entire spine. It sends and receives messages from your brain, which controls all aspects of your body’s functions.

Symptoms of thoracic spinal cord injury depend on the type of nerve damage. Back pain may radiate to the arms, legs, or around the chest from the back toward the front of the chest. The prognosis and recovery from injury can vary from patient to patient. There is also a difference in the type and level of severity of the injury. The patient’s health is also a factor in determining the level of independence achieved after the injury. This includes body type, existing medical conditions, and other injuries that may have occurred at the time of the spinal cord injury.

When is a CT scan of the thoracic spine needed?

Computed tomography (CT) of the thoracic spine is a diagnostic medical imaging method. It uses X-rays to quickly create detailed images of the middle part of the back (the thoracic part of the spine). A CT scan of the thoracic spine is a common practice that systematically excludes the assessment of the lungs and other extraspinal structures, even if they were exposed during the examination.

The CT scan is used as a fast and painless method of analyzing and examining this part of the spine in the case of more serious injuries, accidents, or long-term spine problems that can cause permanent damage, which can be very dangerous. Like any CT scan, this one also carries certain risks, since radiation is used in the process, but it is a very low level of harm compared to the benefit of quickly and painlessly obtaining very detailed analyses that will help in further treatment if necessary.