Test Overview
A CT scan uses
X-rays to make detailed pictures of the
spine and .
During the
test, you will lie on a table that is attached to the CT scanner, which is a
large doughnut-shaped machine. The CT scanner sends X-rays through the body.
Each rotation of the scanner takes a second and provides a picture of a thin
slice of the organ or area being studied. One part of the scanning machine can
tilt to follow the curve of your spine. All of the pictures are saved as a
group on a computer. They also can be printed.
In some cases, a
dye called may be put in a vein () in your arm or into the spinal canal. The dye makes structures and organs easier to see on the CT
pictures. The dye may be used to check blood flow and look for
, areas of
, or nerve damage.
See
.