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CT Thoracic Spine

Last Updated: 2026-01-01 Author:

  • 1. Clinical Summary

    Series Phase Coverage
    T-spine Helical Contrast (N/A or 60s if contrast delay) C7 to L1
    • Thoracic spine trauma
    • Compression fracture
    • Back pain
    • Tumor
    • Infection

  • 2. Patient Prep

    • Position: Supine
    • NPO Status: N/A

  • 3. IV Contrast & Injection

    Parameter Value
    Agent None typically. Contrast if infection/tumor
    Volume If contrast: 100 mL
    Flow Rate 3 mL/s

    Use full dose if GFR > 30

    If GFR < 30

    Max Contrast = \(2*\left[\frac{\text{Patient Weight}}{75 \text{ kg}} * \text{eGFR}\right]\)

  • 4. Special Notes

    • C7 to L1. Submillimeter helical. Sagittal and coronal reformats. Arms up if possible
    • No IV unless contrast indicated. Arms up to reduce artifact

    Safety First

    • Renal Function: N/A or verify eGFR
    • Allergy: N/A or check allergy
    • Alignment. Compression fractures. Pedicles. Spinal canal. Disc spaces. Paraspinal soft tissues
    • Arms up reduces artifact. Bone algorithm
Series Name Start Location End Location Delay Slice Thickness Notes
Scout C7 L1 N/A N/A AP and lateral
T-spine Helical C7 L1 N/A or 60s if contrast 0.625-1 mm Submillimeter
Plane Acquisition FOV Thickness/Increment Kernel IR Strength Notes
Axial T-spine T-spine 2 mm/2 mm Bone 3 Bone and soft tissue
Sagittal T-spine T-spine 2 mm/1.5 mm Bone 3 Midline and parasagittal
Coronal T-spine T-spine 2.5 mm/2 mm Bone 3 Coronal overview