Name of the Procedure:

Computed Tomography (CT) of the Cervical Spine with Contrast Material
Common names: Cervical Spine CT with Contrast

Summary

A CT scan of the cervical spine with contrast is an imaging procedure used to obtain detailed cross-sectional images of the neck and spinal structures. The contrast material helps in highlighting blood vessels and tissues, improving the clarity of the images.

Purpose

The procedure aims to diagnose conditions affecting the cervical spine, such as fractures, herniated discs, tumors, infections, or abnormalities in blood vessels. The contrast material enhances the visibility of these structures, aiding accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Persistent neck pain or stiffness
• Suspected spinal injury or trauma
• Symptoms of nerve compression like arm pain or numbness
• Detection of tumors, infections, or inflammatory conditions
• Pre-surgical planning or follow-up after spinal surgery

Preparation

• Patients are typically instructed to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the scan.
• Inform the radiologist of any allergies, especially to iodine-based contrast material.
• Certain medications may need to be adjusted; consult with your healthcare provider.
• A blood test may be required to check kidney function.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Setup: The patient lies flat on the CT table.
2. Injection: A contrast material is injected into a vein in the arm.
3. Imaging: The table slides into the CT scanner, and multiple X-ray images are taken from different angles.
4. Completion: The entire process is monitored by a radiologic technologist from an adjacent room, with communication possible via intercom.

Duration

Approximately 30-45 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a hospital radiology department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologic Technologist
• Radiologist (for interpreting the images)
• Possibly a nurse or technician to assist with the contrast injection

Risks and Complications

• Allergic reaction to contrast material (rare)
• Kidney function impairment from contrast (especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease)
• Exposure to radiation, though minimized and controlled

Benefits

• Precise identification of spinal abnormalities
• Enhanced visualization of blood vessels and soft tissues
• Informed decision-making for treatment planning
• Non-invasive with no recovery time required

Recovery

• Most patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast material out of the body.
• Report any unusual symptoms, such as rash or difficulty breathing, to your healthcare provider immediately.

Alternatives

• MRI of the cervical spine (no radiation, better for soft tissue evaluation)
• X-rays (less detailed, no contrast material)
• Physical therapy or other non-imaging treatments for certain conditions

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel a warm sensation when the contrast material is injected.
• Lying still for the duration of the scan is necessary but typically not uncomfortable.
• Some patients might experience slight anxiety or discomfort from lying in the scanner; however, measures are taken to ensure comfort.

Pain management is typically not necessary, though reassurance and clear communication are provided throughout the procedure.