A neck x-ray is an imaging test to look at cervical vertebrae, the seven bones in the neck area.
X-ray - neck; Cervical spine x-ray
This test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an x-ray technologist. You will lie on the x-ray table. If the x-ray is to determine injury, care will be taken to prevent further injury. The x-ray machine will be positioned over the neck area. You will be asked to hold your breath while the picture is taken, so that the picture will not be blurry. You will be asked to changed positions so that additional scans can be taken. Usually three to seven different views are needed.
Tell the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.
This test does not cause discomfort, but the table may be cold.
The x-ray is used to evaluate neck injuries and persistent numbness, pain, or weakness.
The test will detect abnormalities such as fractures, dislocations, thinning of the bone (osteoporosis), and deformities in the curvature of the spine. The test may also detect bone spurs, disk problems, and degeneration of the vertebrae.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits. Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the x-ray.
Other tests, such as MRI, may be used to look for disk or nerve problems.
Review Date: 7/17/2007
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright ©2003 A.D.A.M., Inc., as modified by University of California San Francisco. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Information developed by A.D.A.M., Inc. regarding tests and test results may not directly correspond with information provided by UCSF Medical Center. Please discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.