Computed Tomography (CT) Scan of the Spine

CAT Scan, Spine, CT (Computed Tomography), Spine, Spinal CT

Why It Is Done

A CT scan of the spine is done to:

• Look at the bones of the spine (vertebrae).
• Find problems of the spine, such as tumors, fractures, deformities, infection, or narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis).
• Find a herniated disc of the spine.
• Check to see if osteoporosis has caused compression fractures.
• Check on problems of the spine that have been present since birth (congenital).
• Look at problems seen during a standard X-ray test.
• Check how well spinal surgery or therapy is working for a spine problem.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: July 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
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