Special zone
The craniovertebral junction is a complex and functionally critical area: the atlas and axial vertebra with the odontoid process are located here, providing head rotation, and the spinal cord and vertebral arteries pass nearby. CT is indispensable for injuries of this area: fractures of the odontoid process and the atlas are poorly visible on radiographs due to the overlap of bone structures. The study also reveals developmental anomalies - platybasia, basilar impression, Kimmerle's anomaly, atlas assimilation - which can cause chronic headaches, dizziness and neurological symptoms. Thin sections with three-dimensional reconstruction give the surgeon a complete understanding of the anatomy before intervention.
What is the power of computed tomography?
MSCT creates an image using X-rays and produces thin sections with high spatial resolution. It is indispensable where bone, lung tissue, fresh hemorrhage and precise vessel geometry are important, as well as in emergency situations - the examination takes seconds.
Three-dimensional reconstructions are constructed from the resulting sections: this allows the surgeon to see the anatomy in volume in advance and plan the intervention.
When you need contrast
Intravenous contrast dramatically increases the information content in the study of blood vessels, tumors, inflammatory processes and parenchymal organs. It shows the nature of the blood supply to the formation, which often determines its nature.
Before a contrast study, kidney function is assessed by creatinine level and an allergic history is clarified - reactions to iodine-containing drugs are rare, but require attention.
CT or MRI
- CT scan is better: bones, lungs, acute hemorrhage, stones, vessels, emergency conditions
- MRI is better: brain and spinal cord, soft tissues, joints, pelvis, liver
- CT is faster and more accessible, MRI does not provide radiation exposure
About radiation exposure
Computed tomography uses x-rays and is therefore prescribed according to indications. Modern machines use dose reduction protocols, and the information obtained from sound research usually far outweighs the risk. During pregnancy, CT scans are performed only for health reasons.