The standard examination is performed in two projections (straight and lateral). osteochondrosis – reduction of the gap between the vertebrae, the appearance of bone growths.spondylolisthesis – displacement of the vertebra relative to neighboring.tumors, but only bone neoplasms are visible, and destructive foci may indicate metastases.developmental pathologies – underdevelopment of the arches and processes, a change in the shape of the vertebrae, the presence of additional vertebrae and cervical ribs will be visible.acute torticollis is a congenital or acquired pathology, X-ray allows you to identify its type and severity.traumatic injuries (fractures of the vertebral body or several, fractures of processes, displacement of vertebrae and fragments, compression fracture).

Based on the results of the diagnosis, it will be possible to draw up a conclusion about the presence of: What showsĪfter receiving the image, the doctor will be able to assess the condition of the cervical vertebrae and the discs between them. pain in the hands, the cause of which has not been identified (the problem may be in the development of osteochondrosis of the neck).Ĭervical spine x-ray is prescribed to obtain clear images that will reveal the cause of the patient’s complaints, and in the future – to prescribe treatment.dizziness, headaches that increase when the head tilts or turns.signs indicating that the cervical spine was affected due to infectious diseases, for example tuberculosis, etc.the presence of deformities, curvature, limited mobility of the neck.suspected traumatic injury to the neck.This method of research will allow to determine the presence of tumor processes, to identify spinal injuries, developmental anomalies and much more. Assessment requires a systematic approach.Before the procedure, it is important to find out what the cervical spine x-ray shows. The lateral view is often the most informative image. If the lateral view does not show the vertebrae down to T1 then a repeat view with the arms lowered or a ' Swimmer's view' may be required. In the context of trauma these images are all difficult to acquire because the patient may be in pain, confused, unconscious, or unable to cooperate due to the immobilisation devices. The 3 standard views are - Lateral view - Anterior-Posterior (AP) view - and the Odontoid Peg view (or Open Mouth view). Imaging should not delay resuscitation.įurther imaging with CT or MRI (not discussed) is often appropriate in the context of a high risk injury, neurological deficit, limited clinical examination, or where there are unclear X-ray findings. This is because normal C-spine X-rays cannot exclude significant injury, and because a missed C-spine fracture can lead to death, or life long neurological deficit.Ĭlinico-radiological assessment of spinal injuries should be managed by experienced clinicians in accordance with local and national clinical guidelines. Bones - Cortical outline/Vertebral body heightĬlinical considerations are particularly important in the context of Cervical spine (C-spine) injury.Alignment - Anterior/Posterior/Spinolaminar.Look at all views available in a systematic manner.Clinical considerations are of particular importance when assessing appearances of C-spine X-rays.Normal C-spine X-rays do not exclude significant injury.

X rays of cervical spine