About a CT scan of the cervical spine
The cervical spine is the neck part of the spine, made up of seven vertebrae (C1 to C7) between the base of the skull and the shoulders. It supports the head, allows it to move, and protects the spinal cord and the nerves that run to the arms. A CT (computed tomography) scan uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed cross-section pictures of the vertebrae, which can be turned into 3D images. CT shows bone in more detail than any other scan.
In hospital, CT is the first scan for adults with a suspected neck injury, as it quickly shows fractures. Outside emergencies, a cervical spine CT may be used to look at:
- bony narrowing of the spinal canal or the openings where nerves leave the spine (foraminal stenosis), caused by bone spurs
- arthritis of the neck (cervical spondylosis) and the small facet joints
- how a fracture is healing, or the position of screws and rods after surgery
- bony problems such as calcified ligaments, bone lumps and changes in the alignment of the spine
- neck problems when MRI is not possible, for example if you have a pacemaker or other device that is not safe for MRI
Disc bulges, trapped nerves and the spinal cord show up much better on a cervical spine MRI, which does not use radiation, so MRI is usually the first choice for neck and arm pain. Surgeons sometimes ask for both. If several parts of the spine need to be seen, a whole spine CT may be used. You can read more in our article on cervical spine imaging.
What happens during the scan
You lie on your back on the scanner bed with your head resting in a cradle and your arms by your sides. Pads may be used to help you keep still. The bed moves through a short, open ring while your neck is scanned. The radiographer controls the scanner from the next room, but can see, hear and talk to you throughout. The scan itself takes less than a minute, and you may be asked not to swallow while it runs. Contrast dye is not usually needed; where contrast is needed, it is charged separately.
Is CT safe?
CT uses X-rays, which are a type of ionising radiation. A CT of the neck gives a relatively low dose, but the thyroid gland lies in the scan area, so the scan is only done when it is likely to help. The risk from a single scan is very small, and every CT scan is checked by a radiologist or radiographer to make sure the benefit of the scan outweighs the risk, as required by the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations. If you have had other CT scans recently, tell us when you book.
What the scan can show
A CT scan of the cervical spine can help to look at:
- fractures and fracture healing
- bone spurs and bony narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve openings
- cervical spondylosis and facet joint arthritis
- calcified ligaments (such as OPLL)
- the position of implants after surgery
- alignment of the spine and bone lumps
When to get urgent help: call 999 or go to A&E if you have neck pain after a fall, accident or blow to the head, or neck pain with new weakness, numbness or tingling in your arms or legs, difficulty walking, or problems controlling your bladder or bowel. Do not wait for a private scan.
Preparing for your scan
No special preparation is needed, and you can eat and drink normally. Remove necklaces, earrings and hair clips before the scan. Upload any previous X-ray, MRI or scan reports and letters from your surgeon when you book.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zips, poppers or buttons, and leave jewellery at home, as metal in the scan area can affect the pictures. You may be asked to change into a gown. Unlike MRI, CT is not affected by pacemakers or most metal implants, and the scanner is a short open ring rather than a tunnel, so it is usually easier for people who feel anxious in enclosed spaces.
Tell the team before your scan if you are, or might be, pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have kidney problems, diabetes (especially if you take metformin), asthma, thyroid problems or allergies, or if you have had a reaction to contrast dye before. If you need contrast, you may be asked for a recent kidney blood test result.
Frequently asked questions
Should I have a CT or MRI of my neck?
For neck and arm pain, trapped nerves and disc problems, MRI is usually better and does not use radiation. CT is better for the bones, such as fractures, bone spurs and planning surgery. Your referrer will say which is needed; if you are unsure, contact us before booking.
Can a CT show a trapped nerve?
CT can show bone spurs that narrow the openings where nerves leave the spine, but it does not show the nerves or discs as clearly as MRI.
I have metalwork in my neck. Can I still have a scan?
Yes. CT is often used after neck surgery to check screws and rods. Tell us about any implants when you book.
Do I need a referral?
Because CT uses radiation, each scan has to be justified by a qualified professional before it can go ahead. Upload a referral from your GP or consultant when you book if you have one. If you do not, select “no referral” and the scanning centre will review your request and confirm the next steps with you, which may include arranging a referral.
Sources
- NICE NG41 – Spinal injury: assessment and initial management
- NHS – Cervical spondylosis
- NHS – Neck pain
- RadiologyInfo.org – CT of the Spine
- NHS – CT scan
- UKHSA – Patient dose information: guidance
The information on this page has been gathered from various sources and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice. TOP MRI is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of this information. Please speak to your doctor or the scanning centre about your own situation.