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CT Dorso-Lumbar Spine
Overview
What is CT Dorso-Lumbar Spine?
Computed Tomography (CT) Dorso-Lumbar Spine is an imaging procedure used to create cross-sectional images of the lumbar region of the vertebral column. This test is used to create a three-dimensional image of the spinal column, the vertebral bones, intervertebral disks and the surrounding soft tissues.
This test is prescribed by the doctor to explain the cause of any unexplained lower back pain, to detect fractures, inflammations, or infections of the vertebral bones that are not visible on a simple X-ray, to detect malformations, and to diagnose any suspected infection, osteoporosis, deformities or abnormal growth of the bones and arthritis.
CT exams generally use a small amount of radiation and are therefore considered relatively safer as compared to X-rays.
Why is CT Dorso-Lumbar Spine done?
- • To detect the cause of any unexplained lower back pain • To detect fractures, inflammations, or infections of the vertebral bones not visible on a simple X-ray • To detect and diagnose herniated disk, which is the commonest cause of lower back pain • To detect malformations or genetic defects during spinal development in children • To direct intervention procedures like fine needle biopsy • To detect any infection, injury or inflammation of the soft tissues like muscle, and ligaments of the spine • To diagnose any suspected infection, osteoporosis, deformities or abnormal growth of the bones and arthritis (inflammation of the joints)