CT Scan – Whole Spine (Cervical, Thoracic & Lumbar)

About a whole spine CT scan

The spine has three main sections: the cervical spine (neck), the thoracic spine (upper and middle back) and the lumbar spine (lower back). A whole spine CT (computed tomography) scan uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed cross-section pictures of all the vertebrae in one scan, which can be turned into 3D images.

For most back and neck symptoms, including sciatica, trapped nerves, disc problems and spinal cord problems, a whole spine MRI is usually the right test, as it shows the discs, nerves and spinal cord much more clearly and does not use radiation. A whole spine CT is used for bone problems that affect several parts of the spine, for example:

• fractures at more than one level, including osteoporotic fractures, and fractures in people with stiff, fused spines (such as ankylosing spondylitis), where the spine is more easily broken and fractures are easily missed on X-ray
• scoliosis and other changes in the shape of the spine, especially before surgery
• extensive spinal surgery, to check screws and rods over several levels and whether the bones have fused
• bone lumps and bone changes at several levels
• spinal problems when MRI is not possible, for example if you have a pacemaker or other device that is not safe for MRI

Because it covers a large area, a whole spine CT gives a higher radiation dose than scanning one section, so your referrer will usually only ask for it when several sections need to be seen. For one section, see cervical spine CT or lumbar spine CT.

What happens during the scan

You lie on your back on the scanner bed with your arms resting on your chest or above your head, and a cushion under your knees if needed. The bed moves through a short, open ring while your whole spine is scanned. The radiographer controls the scanner from the next room, but can see, hear and talk to you throughout. The scan itself takes only a minute or two. 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. Because a whole spine CT covers the neck, chest and lower back, the dose is higher than for one section of the spine and can be similar to or higher than a CT of the abdomen and pelvis (about 10 mSv). It is only done when the benefit clearly outweighs this. 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.