It allows us to identify deviations from the norm in the condition of the vessels and soft tissues of the larynx. computed tomography. The effectiveness of the procedure is comparable to MRI, which is used to detect large internal formations. Not large number contraindications and information content combined with painlessness make this screening in demand in various types medicine.
For accurate diagnosis CT angiography of the neck can be supplemented with ultrasound, radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and FGDS. As prescribed by a doctor, it can be performed without or with the use of a contrast agent. It is recommended to first undergo an examination by a highly specialized doctor (otolaryngologist, endocrinologist, surgeon).
How do they do it?
The examination involves placing the patient in a special machine (tomograph) and taking readings from sensors scanning the desired area. The process is observed by a radiologist from an adjacent room, monitoring the patient’s condition and reminding him of the need to maintain a motionless body position. As a result of CT scanning of the vessels of the head and neck, a layer-by-layer image appears on the screen in three-dimensional format.
The duration of the procedure varies from 15 minutes to an hour depending on the area of study and the use of contrast. While inside the tomograph arch, a person hears the noise of the device and may feel discomfort from being in a closed space. There is no pain during a CT scan.
What does a CT scan of the neck show and why is the study performed?
The procedure is performed for the following purposes:
- establishing and clarifying a previously made diagnosis;
- planning before operations;
- monitoring the effectiveness of therapy and determining the current condition of the patient to develop further treatment.
CT scan of neck vessels makes it possible to identify diseases of muscle tissue and ligaments, larynx and pharynx, thyroid and thymus glands, lymphatic system, as well as pathologies of the cervical vertebrae.
Thanks to the examination, it is possible to establish the presence of inflammatory processes and neoplasms of a benign and malignant nature.
It takes 15-25 minutes to decipher the results.
Main indications for the procedure
Obtaining a volumetric image of the vascular network and soft tissues, which is provided by computed tomography, is required both for primary diagnosis and for checking the effectiveness of therapy. Among the categories of patients for whom the procedure is indicated, it should be noted:
- those who received injuries to the cervical spine or head;
- those suffering from osteochondrosis and other diseases of the upper musculoskeletal system;
- patients with suspected or already diagnosed cancer;
- people with abscesses, inflammation and foreign objects in soft tissues;
- those who have brain damage caused by insufficient blood supply;
- patients with sprains, aneurysms and manifestations of atherosclerosis at the initial or late stage.
Use of contrast agent
In most cases, patients are prescribed a CT scan of the neck with contrast, which allows obtaining the most detailed clinical picture. The introduction of a coloring agent may cause adverse reactions, such as:
- feeling of nausea;
- headaches and dizziness;
- metal or salty taste;
- redness and irritation at the injection site.
The basis of the solutions is iodine, which is quickly eliminated from the body provided that the kidneys are functioning normally. It is not possible to perform a CT scan of the neck vessels with contrast if you are allergic to the ingredients of the composition, have kidney failure, or the study is necessary for a pregnant or nursing mother (there are exceptions, which your doctor will tell you about).
Who is contraindicated for CT angiography of neck vessels?
- pregnancy (except in cases where the disease threatens the life of the mother);
- children under 14 years of age;
- significant excess weight (the devices are designed for patients up to 120-150 kilograms);
- the presence of an allergic reaction to the contrast agent;
- chronic diseases of the urinary tract, thyroid gland and heart;
- diabetes mellitus in later stages;
- mental disorders.
How to prepare?
Considering the prevalence of contrast-enhanced studies, the patient must first:
- do not eat or drink 8 hours before the tomography;
- remove all metal objects from yourself;
- make sure there is no allergy to iodine or other components of the solution;
- visit a specialist first.
This type of diagnosis provides accurate visualization of the bone structures and soft tissues of the neck, mucous membranes of the esophagus and larynx. In its information content, computed tomography is superior to X-rays, ultrasound diagnostics, FGDS, and in some situations, when it is necessary to study the condition of the bone tissues of the neck, even MRI.
However, during this examination the patient receives a certain dose of radiation, so it is not recommended to carry out the procedure more than once a year.
In what cases and to whom is computed tomography of the neck and cervical spine prescribed - indications for examination
This type of examination is prescribed in the following situations:
- Suspicion of the presence of a malignant neoplasm in the esophagus, thyroid gland. In addition, CT scan of organs and tissues of the neck makes it possible to track metastases in the spinal column, as well as lymph nodes.
- Taking a sample of thyroid tissue to confirm a nodular goiter.
- Education .
- The presence of foreign bodies in the tissues/organs of the neck.
- Inflammatory processes in the neck area, which are accompanied by the formation of purulent masses: abscesses, etc.
- Errors in the structure of the vascular network of the neck.
- Loss of sensation on one side of the neck.
- Control examination after surgery.
- Determining the exact location of the pathological neoplasm when planning surgery.
- Changes in visual function, dark spots before the eyes, discomfort when blinking.
- Pain in the neck, shooting pain in the glenohumeral area.
- Brain-related disorders: dizziness, fainting, nausea.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Difficulty swallowing, as well as changes in the voice (it becomes hoarse).
Video: Example of computed tomography of the cervical spine, shot wound
Among other things, CT of the cervical spine is recommended for the following categories of people:
- After crossing the 65-year mark.
- In a car accident, if vehicle overturned at a speed of 100 km/h, or if a passenger was thrown out of the car.
- If there was an axial load on the head.
- In case of a fall from a height of 1 m or more.
- For muscle spasms in the upper and/or lower extremities.
Contraindications to CT scanning of the neck and cervical spine and situations when the diagnosis turns out to be uninformative
This procedure cannot be performed on all patients.
This diagnosis is contraindicated in the following cases:
- The period of bearing a child. Radiation negatively affects the body of a pregnant woman.
- Mental disorders, as well as conditions in which the patient cannot lie still without moving during the examination.
- Age up to 14 years.
- Lactation. If, at the time of breastfeeding, a woman underwent a CT scan of the cervical spine, she must refrain from breastfeeding for 2 days.
- Allergic reactions to iodine-containing substances.
- Serious disruptions in the functioning of the heart, kidneys, and thyroid gland.
- Metal prostheses that are localized in the scanning area.
In addition, each device has its own weight restrictions. For some devices this is 130 kg, for others 200 kg - it all depends on the model.
How is a CT scan performed?
How to prepare for the study, and what preparation will there be in the clinic?
Before undergoing this type of examination, the patient should perform the following activities:
- Obtain a referral for a CT scan of the cervical spine from an appropriate specialist. For example, if there is a suspicion of cancer, such a referral is given by an oncologist. When studying the condition of the larynx and nasopharynx, an ENT doctor refers for examination, for the thyroid gland - an endocrinologist, etc. Many medical institutions do not accept a patient for examination without an appropriate referral.
- Extract from the patient's medical card.
- Results of previous examinations (if any).
This manipulation does not require any specific preparation. However, in the case of contrast, the patient must refrain from eating and drinking for several hours before the procedure. Otherwise, the gag reflex may be triggered.
Among other things, the use of a contrast agent has a number of contraindications, so you need to donate blood in advance to determine the level of creatinine and urea.
In order not to distort the results of the study, all jewelry must be removed.
Parts of clothing can also interfere with the scanning process, so it is best to bring a hospital gown with you.
Device for scanning the neck and cervical spine
Stages of performing computed tomography of the neck and cervical spine
When contrast is performed, a dye is injected into the patient a few minutes before the scan begins.
If the object of study is the digestive tract, contrast is applied orally.
For all other cases, they often use bolus contrast– a small amount of iodine-containing X-ray contrast agent enters the body through an installed catheter in a vein throughout the study.
In this case, certain side effects may occur: nausea, dizziness, perspiration. All this goes away in just a few minutes.
If these pathological conditions are pronounced, this should be reported to the doctor.
In general, at the time of scanning, the patient is in a separate room, and communication with medical staff is maintained thanks to a special intercom.
At the very beginning of the procedure, the nurse helps the patient lie down on a retractable table, which, after connecting the system, automatically enters the tomograph, where layer-by-layer sections of the area under study are made. At the time of scanning, the person should not move or even swallow saliva.
Computed tomography of the cervical spine takes, on average, 5-10 minutes. The scanning process itself lasts no more than a minute, which is very convenient for examining people who are in serious condition.
After completing the diagnosis, the patient is sent home.
He is notified in advance that the first day after the procedure, urine and feces may change color. This phenomenon is a consequence of the removal of the contrast agent.
Neck CT results – what does a neck CT scan look like?
During this procedure, the tomograph takes several black and white images. Only the most successful of them are given to the patient.
For an additional fee, you can also request a disk/flash drive on which the entire scanning process will be displayed.
In addition, based on the information received, the radiologist makes written opinion.
> CT (computed tomography) of soft tissues and organs of the neck
This information cannot be used for self-medication!
Consultation with a specialist is required!
The neck is the most anatomically loaded area of the body. It is here, tightly adjacent to each other, that a large number of organs belonging to different systems(circulatory, nervous, digestive, lymphatic and endocrine). Various diseases of any of these organs can be determined using computed tomography (CT) of the soft tissues and organs of the neck. This diagnostic method is based on the use of X-rays and allows one to obtain layer-by-layer images of the organ being examined. A referral for a CT scan is most often issued by a surgeon, oncologist or vascular surgeon.
Indications for CT scan of the neck
Computed tomography of the organs of the neck and soft tissues of this area can be prescribed to clarify the diagnosis with enlarged lymph nodes of unknown origin, with lymphogranulomatosis (tumor pathology of the lymphatic system), with neck injuries. Purulent inflammatory processes (infiltrates, abscesses, phlegmons), neck cysts, diverticula (wall protrusions) of the esophagus or larynx, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, herniated intervertebral discs and spinal ligament sprains, aneurysms or atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries are also indications for CT. In addition, it is prescribed to exclude or confirm the presence of malignant or benign neoplasms, metastases in organs and soft tissues of this area.
How to prepare for research?
No special preparation is required in this case. If a CT scan of the neck organs is performed with the introduction of contrast, then you should not eat food 7–8 hours before the procedure.
Before prescribing the procedure, the doctor will definitely find out everything possible contraindications, the main ones being pregnancy, allergic reactions to contrast agents, severe forms of renal failure, and the period of breastfeeding. There are also restrictions on the patient’s weight depending on the type of tomograph (from 120 to 200 kg).
How is the procedure done?
During the examination, the patient lies on his back on a mobile tomograph table. When performing a CT scan of the neck with contrast, it is administered either intravenously or orally (when diagnosing pathology of the upper digestive tract). After administration of a contrast agent, a burning sensation and redness of the skin at the injection site may be observed, and with oral administration, a metallic taste in the mouth. These sensations are normal and disappear after 3-5 minutes.
During the procedure, the table moves inside the tunnel, and the tomograph ring rotates around. To obtain accurate results, complete stillness is required.
Within 15–20 minutes after the CT scan, the specialist writes a report, which, along with the images, is sent to the attending physician.
What does a CT scan of the neck show?
CT scan of the neck organs allows you to see and evaluate the condition of the thyroid gland, lymph nodes located in this area, interfascial spaces, muscles, trachea, esophagus, larynx and nasopharynx, as well as the cervical spine. During the procedure, the specialist has the opportunity to obtain information about the structure of the spinal cord and spinal column and exclude or confirm their role in the development of a particular pathology. Computed tomography with contrast clearly visualizes the vessels.
This diagnostic method allows you to see the number of neoplasms, determine their exact location and degree of germination, and assess the extent to which surrounding organs are involved in this process. Computed tomography of the neck makes it possible to study the anatomy of the tumor and determine its nature with great accuracy.
Computed tomography of the soft tissues and organs of the neck helps visualize the neck muscles, the condition of the thyroid gland and lymph nodes in this area.
It is also used to examine hollow organs of the neck, such as the nasopharynx, trachea, and esophagus. Computed tomography is one of the most informative methods for studying the cervical region. CT examination helps to detect malignant formations, foci of inflammation, cysts, organ injuries, hematomas, the presence and location of a foreign body in the neck, as well as lymph node hyperplasia. The area that is examined also includes the cervical spine.
A soft tissue CT scan of the neck is a test that takes very thin slices (3.5 mm) of the neck, starting just above the ears and ending just below the collarbone. This allows for more accurate diagnosis of conditions related to areas such as the nasal passages, mouth, throat, thyroid and parotid glands.
A computed tomography (CT) scan uses a special X-ray machine to view organs and tissues inside the body in detail.
CT scanning of the soft tissues and organs of the neck provides more detailed information about neck injuries, tumors and other diseases than other types of X-rays. CT scan can also show bones soft fabrics and blood vessels in the same images.
A CT scan takes pictures of the inside of the body. The photographs are more detailed than typical x-rays. During a CT scan of the neck, pictures are taken of cross-sections, or slices, of structures in the body.
When contrast is used during a CT scan, the structures are highlighted even more. CT scan can help determine the diagnosis early stage. The doctor uses this information to determine best treatment for the patient.
Application of CT of soft tissues and organs of the neck
Computed tomography is very informative for diagnosing diseases of the soft tissues and organs of the neck. In particular, this study is able to document tumor size, location and relationship to adjacent structures, and CT can demonstrate the path of tumor spread.
By using intravenous contrast material during the examination, the best visualization of the vessels is ensured and thus the identification of key vascular structures is improved.
CT can determine the exact location and extent of tuberculosis in the intratemporal fossa and is best assessed in the parapharyngeal space. CT does not provide a histological diagnosis and does not allow differentiation between benign and malignant processes.
CT is very useful in the evaluation of parotid tumors and is likely to replace traditional sialography for the evaluation of parotid tumor pathology. However, sialography remains the procedure of choice for the evaluation of inflammatory diseases of the salivary glands.
CT is extremely valuable in the evaluation and diagnosis of laryngeal carcinoma. Computed tomography provides better imaging accuracy for assessing cartilage damage and tumor extension into the peripharyngeal spaces.
Current limitations of laryngeal CT are: motion artifacts, lack of dynamic information, inability to differentiate edema from tumor infiltration, and lack of adequate characterization of mucosal surfaces.
CT of the soft tissues and organs of the neck is most useful in detecting metastatic adenopathy, especially in obese patients.
Reactive nodes, however, cannot be distinguished from metastatic nodes. Normal lymph nodes are usually less than 5 mm in diameter and reactive nodes are usually less than 15 mm in diameter. Large nodes with central necrosis usually indicate the presence of metastatic disease.
The role of CT in the evaluation of thyroid nodules is limited due to the accuracy of radionuclide and ultrasound diagnostic methods.
Indications for the study:
- the presence of abnormalities of the neck organs;
- damage to the neck organs caused by trauma;
- malignant and benign neoplasms;
- metastasis to lymph nodes;
- foreign bodies in the neck for subsequent planning of their surgical removal;
- diagnosis of neck cyst;
- damage to the cervical spine;
- infectious diseases of neck tissue (abscess, infiltrate, phlegmon);
- diverticula;
- damage to the vessels of the neck.
There are no contraindications for computed tomography; if it is indicated, then its negative consequences outweigh the risks.
Contraindications to the administration of a contrast agent are:
- history of severe reaction to contrast;
- the presence of allergic diseases, bronchial asthma;
- presence of hyperthyroidism;
- severe liver or kidney failure;
- period of pregnancy and lactation.
CT scans use X-ray technology and advanced computer analysis to create detailed images of the body.
Preparing for CT
Allowed to eat light food before computed tomography of the neck. You should drink plenty of fluids on the day of your scan. Accept medicines allowed as usual.
You should definitely tell your doctor or CT specialist if there is a possibility of pregnancy.
Some items may interfere with CT images, so your doctor may ask you to remove the following items:
- any clothing with zippers or snaps;
- hairpins and jewelry;
- glasses;
- hearing aids;
- removable dental prostheses.
The patient will be asked to lie on his back, place his arms at his sides, and be very quiet. The table the patient is on will slide into the scanner. The scanner will be covered only at the level of the head and neck. The scanner is open at the back and front, allowing the patient to see. This procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
After this procedure there are no restrictions for the patient. You can eat and drive as usual. If the study was carried out with a contrast agent, you need to drink six to eight glasses to wash it out of the body.
If a CT scan of soft tissues and neck organs with contrast is planned, before administering a contrast agent, you need to clarify whether there is an allergy to any medications or. Many types of contrast contain iodine. If the patient has had an allergic reaction to contrast dye in the past, doctors will give medication to prevent a reaction to the contrast before the scan.
Subject to availability concomitant diseases such as asthma, diabetes, heart problems, multiple myeloma, or kidney disease may increase the risk of a contrast reaction. For example, kidney disease makes it difficult to remove contrast material from the blood.
Because a CT scan uses x-rays, other people are not allowed in the room during the test.
For young patients, a parent may remain in the room with their child to help reduce fear and provide comfort. The parent will need to wear a protective apron to limit exposure to the radiation used in the scan.
How to scan
The specialist helps the patient take the correct position on the CT scanner table. Soft straps or tape may be used to help keep the neck in the correct position.
During the scan, the patient will be inside the CT scanner machine. Many X-rays will pass through the patient's body as the X-ray tube rotates around him. The machine will take pictures from many angles, creating cross-sectional images (slices) of the neck.
The technologist leaves the room. During the scan, the patient will be alone in the room, but the technologist can always see, hear and talk to him through the intercom.
The patient must remain still while the table is moved to the center of the scanner. In addition, the patient also needs to hold the button while scanning. The best CT images are stored to evaluate the results.
For the first few checks, the table is moved quickly through the scanner. These first checks check that the starting position is correct. The table will move more slowly for the rest of the scan. The neck scan can take up to 15 minutes. Then the doctor looks at the photos on a computer.
Some patients require a contrast study. Patients will receive contrast (x-ray dye) during the scan. The contrast makes tissues and blood vessels more visible to the doctor's view in CT scans.
How does the patient feel during the scan?
A CT scan is painless, but the patient may experience some discomfort while on the scanning table.
If contrast is used during injection, the patient may notice a warm, fuzzy feeling. He may also experience a metallic taste in his mouth. These reactions are normal. They should go away within 1-2 minutes.
From time to time, the patient experiences itching for several hours after receiving contrast. You need to inform your doctor about this so that he can prescribe appropriate treatment.
You should also immediately tell your doctor if you experience dizziness, shortness of breath and shortness of breath after a CT scan with contrast, as this may be an allergic reaction. A doctor or nurse will be nearby during the scan to assist the patient if needed.
Who interprets the results and how to get them
A radiologist experienced in reading CT scans will review and interpret the CT images. The radiologist will not talk to the patient about the results. The radiologist will send a detailed report to the doctor who referred the patient for testing. And the doctor will talk with the patient about the results of a computed tomography scan of the soft tissues and organs of the neck.
CT scan of the throat and larynx helps to identify dangerous diseases and prescribe best methods treatment. Before undergoing this diagnostic procedure, you should take tests and consult with your doctor. A CT scan of the larynx can detect serious diseases in the early stages.
What will a CT scan show?
Computed tomography of the larynx and throat shows a complete picture of the condition of the upper respiratory tract, as well as soft tissues and blood vessels. This study is usually prescribed when any controversial diagnosis is made. It is necessary to clarify or refute it. At the moment, modern diagnosis of the disease using CT of the larynx is highly valued. What the research shows will confirm or refute the diagnosis made in absentia. The procedure includes a complex set of measures involving analysis and assessment of all symptoms of diseases.
Device structure
The beam tube is equipped with a detector. These elements rotate regularly. In one revolution they can only illuminate a thin strip of fabric. Gradually, a complete picture will be formed when the system takes photographs of all the necessary areas. All photographs are taken in more than one projection, which allows us to examine the problem from all sides. Using built-in programs, the resulting image is gradually transformed.
Principle of using CT
Together with the deformed mucous membrane on the opposite background, the system displays absolutely healthy organs. Next, a detailed analysis of all deviations is performed. The received data is recorded by workers for further transmission to the doctor, who can decipher it. After analyzing the information, the specialist makes a decision on the further course of treatment.
Reasons to do a CT scan
The attending physician recommends a CT scan of the neck and larynx under the following circumstances:
- Severe neck injuries that can lead to dangerous work problems internal organs that needs correction.
- Congenital disorders in the growth and development of any internal organs.
- The possibility of the appearance of benign tumors, suspicion of their degeneration into malignant ones.
- Growth of cancerous tumors.
- Study of the location of metastases, their size and possible progression.
- Determining the exact location of foreign bodies in the neck if they need to be removed surgically.
- Cystic formations of any internal parts of the neck.
- Disturbances in the functioning of the upper, any destructive processes, as well as all kinds of curvatures and injuries.
- Inflammatory processes of the neck of any complexity. Sometimes research is required even with ordinary sore throat. More often they consider the location of abscesses, all kinds of fluid accumulations due to infectious disorders of the structure of the tissues of internal organs.
- Formation of a diverticulum in the larynx, and, if necessary, check for these abnormalities in the upper parts of the esophagus.
- Vascular problems, including thrombosis or atherosclerosis, are examined in detail, especially for problems of unknown etiology.
- Enlarged lymph nodes, if the cause of this phenomenon cannot be argued.
CT safety
Computed tomography can indeed cause harm to the health of a living organism, but it is insignificant; no cases of pronounced disorders that resulted from a CT examination of the larynx were found. This research method is based on This phenomenon is recognized as relatively safe for human health if he is not constantly near the device without special protection.
Fear of undergoing the procedure is unfounded, so if necessary, you should not refuse this functional study. When performing a CT scan of the larynx, the price is moderate; the study costs about 4,000 rubles. Modern devices are created with a modified design, so the dose of direct radiation is even lower. It is allowed to carry out this study more than once, without any disturbances in the functioning of internal organs.
Contraindications
- A CT scan of the larynx should not be performed on pregnant women. The fetus is sensitive to any dose of radiation, so you should not expose it to danger. This study is allowed to be carried out only in cases where the risk to the mother’s health is too great, and any delay could cause an exacerbation of the disease.
- A CT scan is not done if it can be dispensed with when there is pain or hyperkinesis, that is, the patient does not control his movements, which are expressed in strong and intermittent twitching.
- Doctors do not recommend doing a CT scan with contrast during lactation, that is, while a woman is breastfeeding her baby. This warning is based on the fact that contrast radiation can penetrate and accumulate in breast milk. If a woman was forced to undergo a CT scan with contrast, then it is necessary to interrupt breast-feeding for at least 2 days. Before undergoing the procedure, you can strain out a little milk and leave it for the baby so that the temporary transition to formula is not too painful.
- Patients with renal failure are limited in their ability to obtain CT scans when needed. If the disturbances in kidney function are too striking, then this study is prohibited. Substances that enter the body as a result of this diagnostic procedure must be eliminated through the kidneys. If these organs cannot function properly, there is a risk of poisoning the body.
- People who are allergic to iodine are prohibited from performing the procedure.
- For diseases of the thyroid gland, CT is not performed in many cases, but if necessary, doctors allow the use of this diagnostic method. The possibility of worsening symptoms has been recorded. First, the level of thyroid hormones should be determined; if it is unsatisfactory, then CT is most often canceled.
Why do you need computed tomography with contrast?
This diagnostic procedure is sometimes performed with contrast. This is a special substance made from iodine, which helps to more clearly see all the internal structures of organs. This drug is administered intravenously to the patient before conducting a diagnostic study. When it spreads through the vessels, a specific color is visible on the display. The substance then accumulates in the tissues, helping to identify the affected structures. This substance is especially effective at staining tissues where there is a large blood flow, so with its help malignant tumors and inflammatory processes can be easily identified.
How is CT performed?
The patient sits on a retractable table, and the doctor monitors his body position.
A special ring starts when the device is turned on and moves around the patient. The person should not move at this time.
When performing a CT scan using a contrast agent, the drug is administered intravenously before starting the machine. Sometimes it should be taken orally. In this case, the doctor gives a special command, according to which the patient drinks the provided liquid.
When performing a CT scan of the throat and larynx, the price is small. The procedure is completely painless and safe if all tests have been completed before this study, and the patient has received the approval of the attending physician for this diagnostic method. The person will have a complete picture of the disease of the neck organs, and based on the identified data, he will be prescribed the most optimal treatment.
