X-ray procedure of the cervical spine

This article is professionally consulted by Master, Resident Doctor Tran Duc Tuan - Department of Diagnostic Imaging - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.

The cervical spine is an important part of the human body, but it is very susceptible to damage due to many different causes. To diagnose the condition of cervical spine injury quickly and effectively, doctors often appoint patients to take x-ray of the cervical spine.

X-ray is a technique that uses high radiation X-rays to penetrate soft tissues and fluid components inside the body, thereby creating images for doctors to diagnose diseases. X-ray becomes an effective tool in diagnosing diseases, especially diseases related to bones, joints, respiratory and cardiovascular.
X-ray of the cervical spine is the performance of taking pictures of 7 cervical vertebrae on the human body, these are also the first 7 vertebrae of the spine. Usually doctors order x-ray of the spine to diagnose some diseases or injuries in the cervical spine as follows:
Cervical spondylosis Osteoporosis Osteoporosis Neck fracture or suspected fracture Deformity of the cervical spine Dislocation Foreign body in throat or airway Abnormal neck bones Have a tumor in the neck

2.1 Preparations before the scan The patient receives the X-ray order sheet and moves to the location of the scan. The doctor in charge will explain to the patient about the imaging procedure and what to note during the scan. The patient exposes the neck area to be taken, remove jewelry at the x-ray area if available. 2.2 Procedure for x-ray of the cervical spine The following are the steps to perform a cervical spine X-ray:
Upright shooting position: Instruct the patient to stand or sit in front of the film stand, with the patient facing the ball, hands down along the body. The patient's occipital neck is close to the chin film, slightly tilted, the front plane is perpendicular to the cervical spine axis and in the middle of the film vertically, the X-ray ball is projected at an angle of 20 degrees to the head. Tilt position: Instruct the patient to stand or sit in front of the film stand, with the patient leaning towards the ball, two hands down along the body, one hand holding the other wrist. The patient's nape close to the chin film is slightly supine, align the frontal plane perpendicular to the cervical spine axis and vertically in the middle of the film.

The X-ray shadow is projected horizontally relative to the film. Instruct the patient to remain in the position. The distance of the film is 1m, the X-ray beam is localized. Check the buttons on the control cabinet, observe the patient through the glass and press the x-ray generator button. Invite the patient out of the waiting room. 2.3 Evaluation of results After receiving the results, the x-ray film must meet the following requirements:
Obtain the entire cervical vertebrae. The cervical vertebrae and joints are clearly visible. Movies have contrast sharpness. clean film without scratches. Have the patient's full name, P and T markings, date and year of the scan. Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the hospitals that not only ensures professional quality with a team of leading doctors, modern equipment and technology, but also stands out for its examination and consulting services. and comprehensive, professional medical treatment; civilized, polite, safe and sterile medical examination and treatment space. Customers when choosing to perform tests here can be completely assured of the accuracy of test results.

Master, Doctor Tran Duc Tuan is well-trained in the country and many prestigious medical centers in the world such as Australia, Singapore, Thailand... The doctor has many years of experience in the field. diagnostic imaging and endovascular and extravascular interventions. Currently, the doctor is working at the Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Vascular Unit - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.