Your spine (backbone) is the long, flexible column of bones that protects your spinal cord. Complications associated with fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine include: There are also specific complications associated with spinal surgery. A spine X-ray may be ordered to evaluate a back or neck injury, or to help with the diagnosis and treatment of back or neck pain. Cervical and thoracic spine disorders. thawing stage. These fractures should be observed closely while the patient wears a brace or cast for 12 weeks. Unable to process the form. How the Test is Performed The intervertebral disks allow the vertebral column to be flexible and act as shock absorbers during everyday activities such as walking, running and jumping. In regards to my thoracic back where there's scoliosis, I find that the pain is near constant. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the thoracic spine is an imaging method. Youll lie on the table that slides into the MRI machine. In this type of fracture, the vertebra loses height on both the front and back sides. Bones, for example, are very dense, and most of the radiation is prevented from passing through to the film. Laminectomy relieves pressure on the spinal cord by providing extra space for it to drift backward. Some spinal X-ray studies may require several different positions. The 4 coccygeal vertebrae fuse to form 1 bone, called the coccyx or tailbone. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Thoracic spine (lateral view) | Radiology Reference Article The skeleton is made up of 206 bones in the adult and contributes to the form and shape of the body. A recent infection by a germ (bacterial infection). Also known as Forestier's disease, this condition occurs when these tendons and ligaments become hardened, a process known as calcification. Dense materials, such as bone and metal, show up as white on X-rays. You have to stay very still during each one.The MRI machine creates a strong magnetic field around you. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your health care providerprior to the procedure. The MRI may scan your whole spine or just a part of it. Chua NH, Gultuna I, Riezebos P, et al; Percutaneous thoracic intervertebral disc nucleoplasty: technical notes from 3 patients with painful thoracic disc herniations. The annulus fibrosus is a fibrocartilageous ring that surrounds the nucleus pulposus, which keeps the nucleus pulposus in tact when forces are applied to the spinal column.
