The applications of multislice spiral CT in the diagnosis of spinal fractures

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the value of three dimensional spiral computed tomography(3D SCT) and its reconstruction technique in the diagnosis of spinal fracture. Methods 85 patients of vertebral fractures were examined with helical CT thin scan. After data were transferred to computer workstation,MPR and 3D images were reconstructed. Each study was evaluated for showing the level of the fractures, vertebral alignment, vertebral height loss,line of fractures, posterior element involvement, narrowing of the vertebral canal, and the grade of rotation and/or dislocation. Results 85 patients were detected in 104 CT vertebral fractures:C4 ～ C7 4 vertebra,T6 9vertebra,T10 10 vertebra,T11 16 vertebra,T12 22 vertebrae,L1 19 vertebrae,L2 6vertebra,L3 8 vertebrae,L4 10 vertebra. Of 85 cases,The fratures were displayed by the images of CT,MPR is more supcrior in displaying alignment and displaeement of frarue than thoso of other techniques, MPR has an advantage in displaying the small fractures,3D displays the space of bone structures,and neural canal compression. Conclusion Spiral CT diagnosis of vertebral fractures had a high application value. Axial, MPR and 3D in combination, could clear the degree of injury,three-dimensional,visual, multi-directional information needed to provide clinicians, will help the choice of treatment. Key words: Spinal fractures; Imaging, therrdimensional; Tomography, X-ray compated