CT Credits – Learn how to perform a Cervical Spine CT – some of these instructions may vary depending on the equipment you are working on.
CT Credits – Scanning the Cervical Spine
CT Credits – Cervical Spine CT images are screen shots from the Virtual CT Trainer Software causing some degrading in the image quality.
Cervical Spine
Exam Prep:
- When scanning the cervical spine, attach the head unit and position the patient supine and head first in the scanner.
- The cervical spine is typically done without IV contrast unless a mass is suspected.
CT Credits – Positioning the Patient:
- Move the patient into the scanner until the positioning light is at the sternal notch.
- Adjust the table height until the horizontal light is midway between the neck
- Turn off the positioning light
CT Credits – Scanning Scout Images:
- When the patient is properly positioned – Press the confirm button
- Prep the scanner (Scan button will be solid or a flashing light – depends on manufacture)
- Scan your AP & Lateral scout images – Some manufacturers will require the patient to move back into the gantry to scan the second scout and some will move the patient back into the scanner as it acquires the second scout.
Adjusting Your Lines or Box to Cover Desired Anatomy:
- Adjust the lines or box to cover the anatomy to be scanned (lines or box depends on CT manufacture).
- When scanning the cervical spine, scan from just above C-1 down through T-1.
- When the lines or box are positioned over the desired anatomy, press the confirm button.
CT Training Online – Scanning the Patient:
- When you have your scan area covering the needed anatomy from just above C-1 down through T-1 – Push the scan button to start the scan of the lumbar spine.
Completing the Exam:
- Look through your images to verify you have all of the anatomy that is needed. Help the patient off of the scanner table.
Virtual CT Trainer Software – Learn More
All Our X Ray CE Credits Satisfy ARRT® CE Requirements – ARRT®
Disclaimer: This training does not replace formal hands on CT training, either on the job or academic schooling. Do not perform CT on an actual patient without additional training.
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