Lumbosacral spine CT
Overview
Definition
A lumbosacral spine CT is a computed topography of the lower spine and surrounding tissues.
Alternative Names
Spinal CT; CT - lumbosacral spine
How the test is performed
The CT is performed with the patient lying face-up.
In some cases, an iodine-based contrast dye may be injected into a vein to help visualize tissues. In other cases, a CT of the lumbosacral spine may be performed after injecting contrast dye into the spinal canal during a lumbar puncture, to further check for pressure on the nerves.
The scan will usually last a few minutes.
How to prepare for the test
The patient should remove all jewelry or other metals that may cause inaccurate images.
How the test will feel
The x-rays are painless. The primary discomfort may be from the need to lie still on the table.
If a contrast dye is given through a vein, you may initially feel a slight burning sensation in the injected arm, a metallic taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These sensations are normal and usually disappear within a few seconds.
Why the test is performed
A CT scan is an excellent tool for evaluating fractures and degenerative changes of the spine (such as from arthritis). MRI is a superior exam for imaging the spinal cord and intervertebral disks.
What abnormal results mean
Conditions that may be revealed include:
- Cyst
- Tumor
- Pinched nerve
- Disk herniation
- Vertebral fracture
- Osteoarthritis
- Neoplastic disease (new abnormal tissue formation)
- Infection
- Metabolic disease
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include osteomalacia.
What the risks are
- Iodine is the usual contrast dye. Some patients are allergic to iodine and may have a reaction, including hives, itching, nausea, breathing difficulty, or other symptoms.
- As with any x-ray examination, radiation is potentially harmful. Consult your health care provider about the risks if multiple CT scans are needed over a period of time.
- Pregnant or breast-feeding women should consult their health care provider about the risk of CT scans to the fetus.
Reviewed By: Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
