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Spinal X-ray
X-rays
What does a spinal X-ray include?
Simple X-rays were discovered in 1895 and since then have been the most classic imaging test for the spine. In recent years, technology has minimized the radiation dose required for a simple X-ray. Simple X-rays help diagnose fractures, scoliosis, kyphosis, spondylolysis, spinal osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis, and other spinal pathologies. Thanks to these, we can evaluate the general anatomy of the spine and identify any pathology.
There are various types of spinal X-rays. However, the most common ones are those taken in a standing position so that the spine is loaded, providing a true representation of the condition as it would be during standing and walking. There are also X-rays taken during flexion and extension of the different segments of the spine. In spinal fractures, additional type of x-rays may be needed to accurately assess the extent of the damage and design the appropriate treatment.
Preparation
For a simple spinal X-ray, no preparation is necessary (no need to drink fluids or refrain from eating). The only restriction is if the patient is pregnant. Usually, all metallic items need to be removed and the patient is required to wear a gown, primarily to prevent the metallic items from showing up on the X-ray. Lead pieces are used to block sensitive areas, such as the patient’s genital organs.
Analysis of the X-ray
In a simple X-ray, bones appear white, while the surrounding tissues appear black. Therefore, X-rays are in black and white. Nerves and intervertebral discs are not clearly visible in a simple X-ray, nevertheless, discs may appear gray or white, depending on their density.
Χειρουργός Σπονδυλικής Στήλης
- Ο Χειρουργός Σπονδυλικής Στήλης/ Σκολίωσης Δρ. Ηλίας Χαρ. Παπαδόπουλος γεννήθηκε και μεγάλωσε στην Αθήνα. Αποφοίτησε με Άριστα από την Ιατρική Σχολή Αθηνών το 1994 και στη συνέχεια ειδικεύτηκε στην ορθοπαιδική, στην Α’ Ορθοπαιδική Κλινική του Πανεπιστημίου Αθηνών.
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