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Analyzing CT images of the neck
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
Sequence of CT image analysis
There is not one correct technique for CT scans of the neck, but several systems for interpreting tomograms. The recommendations presented here have been developed based on clinical experience and are one of many options for beginners. Each specialist is free to choose his own strategy in the process of work.
When examining the neck, the sections selected for printing on the printer rarely include images in the bone window. But the radiologist must remember to examine the sections in the bone window to avoid missing fractures or osteolysis.
Recommendations for CT scan of the neck
- Symmetry of the neck muscles?
- Condition and clarity of the image of adipose tissue?
- Normal blood flow in the vessels?
- Blood clots or stenosis due to atherosclerosis?
- Localization and symmetry of the salivary glands?
- Condition of the thyroid gland (is the structure homogeneous or does it contain nodules)?
- KS?
- Increased focal formation after administration
- Lumen of the trachea (is there any narrowing)?
- Assessment of lymph nodes (number, size)?
- Examination of the cervical vertebrae through a bone window?
- Condition of the spinal canal (is there any narrowing)?
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