Computed Tomography (CT) Scan of the Spine

CAT Scan, Spine, CT (Computed Tomography), Spine, Spinal CT

What To Think About

• Sometimes your CT test results may be different than those from other types of X-ray tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound scans because the CT scan provides a different view.
• CT results are often compared to positron emission tomography (PET) results to help find cancer. Some new scanners do both scans at the same time.
• MRI may give more information than a CT scan about the spinal discs and spinal cord. For more information, see the medical test Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• When a CT scan of the spine is done with a myelogram, it is called a CT myelogram. An MRI of the spine is often done in place of a CT myelogram. For more information, see the medical test Myelogram.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: September 3, 2007
Medical Review:	Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
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