Search results
Results From The WOW.Com Content Network
A radiographic evaluation using an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI can determine if there is damage to the spinal column and where it is located. [10] X-rays are commonly available [ 89 ] and can detect instability or misalignment of the spinal column, but do not give very detailed images and can miss injuries to the spinal cord or displacement of ...
Spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA) is symptoms of a spinal cord injury (SCI) with no evidence of injury to the spinal column on X-rays or CT scan. [4] [5] Symptoms may include numbness, weakness, abnormal reflexes, or loss of bladder or bowel control. [2] Neck or back pain is also common. [3] Symptoms may be brief or ...
A CT scan is typically performed after radiographic contrast media (dye) has been placed with fluoroscopic guidance into a sac-like lining (the first- and hardest and outermost- layer of the spinal meninges, the spinal dura mater) surrounding the spinal cord and nerves. The material is typically water-soluble, which has largely replaced ...
The radiation used in CT scans can damage body cells, including DNA molecules, which can lead to radiation-induced cancer. [148] The radiation doses received from CT scans is variable. Compared to the lowest dose X-ray techniques, CT scans can have 100 to 1,000 times higher dose than conventional X-rays. [149]
CT scan of a man presenting with radiculopathy of the left cervical spinal nerve 7, corresponding to spondylosis with osteophytes between the vertebral bodies C6 and C7 on the left side, causing foraminal stenosis at this level (lower arrow, showing axial plane).
The MRI uses electromagnetic signals to produce images of the spine. MRIs are helpful because they show more structures, including nerves, muscles, and ligaments than seen on X-rays or CT scans. MRIs are helpful in showing exactly what is causing spinal nerve compression. [citation needed]
Electromyography and nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS) measure the electrical impulses along nerve roots, peripheral nerves, and muscle tissue. Tests can indicate if there is ongoing nerve damage, if the nerves are in a state of healing from a past injury, or if there is another site of nerve compression .
Myelogram – a dye is administered into the spinal canal to improve visibility of spinal cord and related nerve roots in CT scans [17] Electromyography (ECG) – further nerve conduction study which aids in examining corresponding nerve damage around the compression site [ 18 ]