DIRECT CORONAL COMPUTED-TOMOGRAPHY OF THE UPPER CERVICAL-SPINE

Study Design. The technique of obtaining direct coronal computed tomog raphy images of the upper cervical spine is described. Objectives. To show the usefulness of this technique in demonstrating upper cervical spine lesions and to show that orbital (lens) radiation dosage is mini mal compared with conventional tomography. Summary of Background Data. Conventional tomography is used routinely for assessment of the odont oid peg and upper cervical spine lesions. Direct coronal computed tomo graphy for imaging the cervical spine has not been previously describe d. Methods. Using a removable head support device, direct coronal imag es are obtained using a computed tomography scanner. The gantry tilt i s adjusted from the scanogram. Direct comparison of orbital radiation dosages between computed tomography and conventional tomography is mad e from placement of thermoluminescent dosemeter chips onto a phantom. Results. Direct coronal computed tomography provide superior demonstra tion of skeletal features in the upper cervical spine. Orbital radiati on dose is negligible compared with conventional tomography. Conclusio n. This technique may replace conventional tomography in assessing of stable upper cervical spine lesions.