Table 2 CT checklist and optimal plane of visualisation
From: MDCT of acute subaxial cervical spine trauma: a mechanism-based approach
Fingerprint | Sagittal | Axial | Coronal |
|---|---|---|---|
Alignment | Anterior and posterior translation Anterior and posterior vertebral line, spinolaminar line, interspinous line | Uncinate process alignment—for assessment of rotation deformity | Lateral translation of vertebral body Articular pillar alignment Spinous process alignment for rotation |
Bone (fractures) | Vertebral body compression—wedging Coronal split fracture Retropulsion Articular pillar and articular process fracture Spinous process fracture | Comminution of vertebral body Sagittal/coronal split fractures Retropulsion Pedicle and lamina fracture. Transverse process fracture | Sagittal split fracture Lateral cortical step of vertebral body Articular pillar Transverse process Any horizontally oriented fracture |
Measurement | Interspinous widening Interlaminar widening Kyphotic angle | – | Interpedicular widening Interspinous widening (sagittal is preferred) |
Joint | Intervertebral disc Facet joints | Uncinate process alignment for rotation Facet joint (sagittal is preferred) | Intervertebral disc asymmetry in coronal plane—suggestive of rotation and lateral flexion vector |
Ligaments | ALL, PLL, PLC injury—fingerprints | – | – |