CT Scan of the Thoracic Spine
A CT scan of your thoracic spine allows the radiologist to look at different levels or slices of the middle back using a rotating X-ray beam. The radiologist is able to view each slice to assess for injuries, including ruptured disks and other bony abnormalities. Our team of expert physicians, nurses and technologists is led by Franklin Moser, FACR, clinical chief of Neuroradiology.
Before Arriving for Your Procedure
- Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home and wear comfortable clothing.
- If your doctor gave you an order, please bring it with you.
- Although we do not anticipate any delay in your scheduled appointment, we recommend that you bring a book, a magazine or a music player to help pass any time you may need to wait.
After Arriving
- A radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history.
- You must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam.
During Your Procedure
- While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
- If you are receiving contrast, a nurse or technologist will insert a small IV in your arm.
- Please tell the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam. Most often, you will be asked to lie flat on your back with your arms positioned above your head.
- The table you are on will slide into the scanner. A portion of the body is covered by the scanner, and the scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing the patient to see out.
- The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
- You will be asked to hold very still and at times to hold your breath.
- This procedure usually takes approximately 30 minutes.
After Your Procedure
- There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat and drive as normal.
- If you received an injection of contrast dye, you should drink six to eight glasses of water to flush it out of your system.
- Your study will be read by an imaging physician who specializes in the interpretation of CT scans. The results will be sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.
- Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.
- To request copies of your pictures on a PC-compatible CD, or of your report, please call 310-423-8000, option 2 or submit an online request.
The S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center provides a full range of advanced imaging, both radiology and cardiology, as well as interventional radiology and interventional tumor (oncology) treatments to the greater Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Encino, Mid-Cities, Sherman Oaks, Silver Lake, Studio City, Toluca Lake and West Hollywood.