MSCT of the Cervical Spine

Cervical‑spine MSCT is a high‑precision, informative exam evaluating the spinal cord, vertebral canal, intervertebral discs, ligaments, vessels and soft tissues. It enables early detection of inflammation, tumors, trauma and degenerative changes. The examination is performed on CT Philips Brilliance 64.

Indications

• Diagnostic clarification after X‑ray or MRI.
• Frequent headaches of unclear origin.
• Cervical‑spine trauma.
• Recurrent syncope.
• Seizures and muscle spasms.
• Suspected inflammatory/degenerative processes.
• Pre‑operative planning.
• Vessel and soft‑tissue assessment with contrast.

What does MSCT show?

• Osteoporosis.
• Spinal‑canal stenosis.
• Spondylosis.
• Osteochondrosis.
• Intervertebral disc herniations.
• Vertebral fissures and fractures.
• Tumors and extent.
• Spinal‑cord hemorrhage.
• Congenital anomalies.
• Myelopathy and other cord involvement (indirect).

Preparation

• No special preparation; recommended 2–4‑hour fasting.
• Remove all metal items.
• Creatinine test prior to contrast.

Procedure

• Lie on the sliding table moving into the CT gantry.
• Head immobilized with bolsters or straps.
• Duration: ~5 minutes non‑contrast; up to 15 minutes with contrast.

Equipment

• Philips Brilliance CT with high spatial resolution.
• Low‑dose protocols and precise 3D/multiplanar reconstructions.
• Structured radiology report.