X-Ray Thoracic Spine (AP / LAT View) Test

X-ray is the method to obtain detailed information about your internal body parts using electromagnetic radiations. The thoracic spine x-ray is the imaging of the twelve bones extending from upper and middle back portion of our neck. The thoracic spine joins the cervical spine and further connects with lumbar spine. The X-ray can spot for injuries in the thoracic spine. In a human body a spine is made up of three sub-sections. Of these three divisions thoracic spine has 12 vertebrae which form the protective covering around our chest called rib-cage.

The most important thing to remember is to leave any metallic, magnetic, and jewelry items back at your home as this instruments interfere with the electromagnetic rays. You should inform your doctor beforehand if you are pregnant or have any metal implantation inside your body. The X-ray is performed in the radiology department of the hospital. The patients are asked to change into hospital’s gown so that the electromagnetic rays does not interfere with buttons, zips, etc.

The thoracic spine x-ray helps to evaluate fractures in the twelve bone structure. It can even detect if there’s any dislocation between the joints of the vertebrae. This x-ray is also performed if the patient is experiencing numbness in his/her arm or hand. Thoracic spine x-ray is essential when a person meets an accident. This is to check if he has suffered any internal injuries.

X-ray procedure is standard, easy, and common therefore it does not require any special preparation. A standard X-ray procedure will capture 2-5 images of the scanned body part from different angles. The technician in the radiology department will ask you to lie down on the x-ray table and change positions from time to time to get images. Make sure you hold your breath and don’t move while the camera moves your body to capture the images. The process will last maximum for 15 minutes and is painless process.