X-Ray Spine (Obl View) Test

X-Ray Spine test is done to check the images of spine produced by radiations. X-Ray spine test is done in three different parts of the spine that are cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (lower back). The images produced by this X-Ray test appear in black and white on the film. X-Ray spine test is used detect injuries in neck or back parts of the body in a person. Apart from these injuries, it also helps to detect tumors, arthritis, infections, disc problems, Osteoporosis and if any deformities present in the curves of the spine. This test is also performed sometimes to check if there are any changes in the spine after a person undergoes spinal surgery.

In order to undergo X-Ray Spine test, first, the patient needs to prepare for this test by dressing themselves in the hospital gown that is given and remove their clothing. All the metal objects are to be removed before starting the test, such as hairpins or jewelry, even eyeglasses are to be removed. It is because; those objects interfere with radiations and causes false results. In case if the patient is pregnant, then they are required to inform doctor and radiology technologist, beforehand, because these radiations are not good for developing baby or infants. It is also essential to inform technologists if the patients have an insulin pump.

X-Ray Spine test is done in order to determine any injuries in the neck part of the patient. This test considers following results: Results of the test will be negative if the bones of the spine are normal, spine is not abnormally curved and soft tissues around vertebrae look normal. Results of the test will be positive if there is a presence of broken bones, dislocation or foreign objects.

Positive results occur even, in case if the spine is abnormally curved. Results of this test are positive even if there are any diseases related to spine or disc disease or appearance of bone spurs.

X-Ray Spine test is done by passing X-Ray radiations and taking the X-Ray image of the spine as per the instructions of the doctor. First, the patient is instructed to lie down on the X-Ray table.

Then the radiology technologist will pass X-Rays to the upper or lower area of the spine. Then the patient is asked to change positions or move arms in order to take 3 to 4 images. In order to take X-Ray of the neck, the patient is asked to open the mouth. In case if technologist instructs to hold the breath, then it is essential to do, so as to avoid blur in the images. Once images are taken, it takes few seconds to process them.