Thoracic spine x-ray

Alternative Names: Vertebral radiography; X-ray - spine; Thoracic x-ray; Spine x-ray; Thoracic spine films; Back films

A thoracic spine x-ray is an x-ray of the twelve chest (thoracic) bones (vertebrae). The vertebrae are separated by flat pads of cartilage that cushion them.

Why is the Test Performed?

The x-ray helps evaluate:

• Bone injuries
• Cartilage loss
• Diseases of the bone
• Tumors of the bone

How is the Test Performed?

The test is done in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office. You will lie on the x-ray table in different positions. If the x-ray is checking for an injury, care will be taken to prevent further injury.

The x-ray machine will be moved over the thoracic area of the spine. You will hold your breath as the picture is taken, so that the picture will not be blurry. Usually two or three x-ray views are needed.

Preparation for the Test

Tell the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.

How will the Test Feel?

Th test causes no discomfort. The table may be cold.

Thoracic spine x-ray Risks

There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits.

Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of x-rays.

Considerations

The x-ray will not detect problems in the muscles, nerves, and other soft tissues, because these problems can't be seen well on an x-ray.

What Abnormal Results Mean

The test can detect:

• Bone spurs
• Deformaties of the spine
• Disk narrowing
• Dislocations
• Fractures
• Thinning of the bone (osteoporosis)
• Wearing away (degeneration) of the vertebrae

Skeletal spine	Vertebra, thoracic (mid back)	Vertebral column	Intervertebral disk
Anterior skeletal anatomy

Review Date: 8/15/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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