Name of the Procedure:

Computed Tomography (CT) of the Lumbar Spine; without Contrast Material

• Common name(s): CT scan of the lower back, Lumbar spine CT
• Medical term: Computed tomography of the lumbar spine

Summary

A CT scan of the lumbar spine is a non-invasive imaging procedure that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the lower spine. This version of the scan does not use contrast material, which means that no dye is injected into the patient.

Purpose

• Medical Condition or Problem it Addresses: Helps diagnose issues in the lower spine, such as herniated disks, spinal stenosis, fractures, tumors, or degenerative diseases.
• Goals or Expected Outcomes: To obtain detailed images of the lumbar spine to assist in accurately diagnosing and planning appropriate treatments for various spinal conditions.

Indications

• Symptoms: Chronic lower back pain, numbness or weakness in legs, suspected spinal injuries, or abnormalities seen in an X-ray.
• Patient Criteria: Individuals with persistent lower back issues, those who have sustained lower back injuries, or patients with suspected spinal anomalies.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: No fasting or special preparations are typically required. Patients should remove any metal objects, such as jewelry or belts, as these can interfere with imaging.
• Diagnostic Tests or Assessments: None specifically required before the procedure; however, recent medical history and any previous imaging studies are helpful.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Setup: The patient lies on a motorized table that slides into the CT scanner. They may be asked to lie on their back or side.
2. Positioning: Technicians ensure the patient is properly positioned to capture images of the lumbar spine.
3. Scanning: The scanner rotates around the patient, taking multiple X-ray images from different angles.
4. Imaging: A computer processes these X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the spine.
5. Duration: The imaging process typically takes 10-15 minutes.

Duration

The entire procedure usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is performed in the radiology or imaging department of a hospital, outpatient clinic, or specialized imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Radiologic technologist or radiographer

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Exposure to a small amount of radiation.
• Rare Risks: In rare cases, allergic reactions to contrast material can occur, but this procedure doesn't use contrast.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Provides clear, detailed images of the lumbar spine, assisting in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Timeline: Results are typically available within a few hours to a few days, depending on the facility.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: No special care is needed since the procedure is non-invasive.
• Recovery Time: Immediate. Patients can resume normal activities right after the scan.
• Follow-up: Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on the findings.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options:
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
  • X-ray
  • Physical examinations and alternative diagnostic tests
• Pros and Cons:
  • MRI: Better for soft tissue detail but more expensive and time-consuming.
  • X-ray: Less detailed than CT but quicker and involves less radiation.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: The patient may feel uncomfortable lying still on a hard table but should not experience pain. There is no need for pain management as it’s painless.
• After the Procedure: Patients can immediately return to their normal activities with no discomfort anticipated.