What is lumbar and sacral radiography and what does it diagnose?

Por

Eden Experts

August 16, 2021

Find out what an X-ray in the lumbosacral area of the spine is, as well as the process that specialists carry out for this study and under what circumstances it is necessary. On the other hand, you will learn about the risks associated with this study and how they can be reduced with complementary tests.

Our body is shaped by the perfect arrangement of bones, muscles, tissues and organs that allow us to do all the activities we want. For this reason, when one of the parts of this machine is damaged, we must go to the specialists to be diagnosed and Treat any illness. An example is injuries that cause severe pain in the lower back and the sacrum of the spine, in which case a spinal x-ray.

When is an X-ray of the lumbosacral spine indicated?

In this regard, if you are suffering from any symptoms in the lumbar and sacral spine area, it is essential that you go to the doctor you trust to recommend a treatment. If the Pain persists, it will probably request a radiography. Keep in mind that when there is discomfort anywhere in the spine, you are putting the protector of the spinal cord at risk, which controls nerve impulses in the body.

On the other hand, the entire structure of the vertebral column It is the one that connects your head to the pelvis, that is, it is the more robust support for your entire body, and therefore it is closely related to the ability to move. That's why you can't neglect any symptoms you have in this area. The lower region of the column houses the vertebrae of the lumbar region And the bones of the region Sacred.

Now, when there are Pain in this area, it may simply be due to a sudden movement you made. In some cases, doctors may simply indicate medication or physical therapy for up to eight weeks.

However, if the pain persists or is it getting more intense, the cause could be associated with a strong blow, or a major injury that the doctor needs to study, usually with a radiography of the area.

What can be seen on the X-ray of the lower back and sacrum?

Una radiography is an imaging studio that uses X-ray beams to allow us to see internally the structure of bones, tissues and muscles. In the case of the lower back and sacral area, what is interesting to see a specialist are the 5 vertebrae that make up the lumbar region And the 4 bones from the sacral region, which depending on age, may have connecting discs between them.

These images show any abnormality you have in your lumbosacral spine, such as structural deviations, wear and tear of cartilage and bones, fractures, signs of osteoporosis and spondylolisthesis. This last pathology refers to the repositioning of a vertebra in the lower back.

What is the procedure for the X-ray and how do I prepare for the study?

First of all, you should not worry when your doctor requests an X-ray of the lower back and sacral areas, since this The process is painless. What is essential is that you go to a quality clinic or laboratory, because if you have a major injury, such as a fracture, the specialist must know what position to place you in order to prevent additional damage to existing ones.

In general, the radiologist or radiologist technician will tell you to remove any material that may affect the resolution of the image, such as any metal accessory. You will also be asked to undress and put on a disposable gown. This is attributed to the fact that X-ray beams reflect everything in their reach, and objects such as accessories and clothing can generate confusing results.

Then you will have to go up to the Table or sit down to start the study. You will be asked to inhale or Hold your breath for a few seconds while the shot is being taken.

After taking more or less 5 images, you can get dressed and the study will be over. You won't feel No pain while the exam is being practiced. Nor do you require no aftercare to the studio.

Now let's talk about Risks of the X-ray. According to scientific studies, spinal X-rays have to be done with 1.4 mSv, radiation equivalent to 6 months of natural radiation from the Sun. This amount is safe and modern machines can Adjust the amount of radiation to expose the patient only to the extent necessary. Therefore, you should not be afraid to have the study done, although you should mention to your doctor when you had a similar study done previously.

Alternative studies to radiography of the lumbosacral spine

Indeed, experts have managed to control the amount of radiation in X-rays so that beams of this energy do not negatively affect the human body.

However, depending on the doctor's judgment, instead of requesting an X-ray, he may indicate other alternative or complementary studies and that are just as effective, as CT scans (TC) and the magnetic resonances (BRANCHES). The difference is that these Tests are more expensive and the process of obtaining results is slower.

How will I get my results?

Los Results they are usually accompanied by a Interpretation of the radiologist. Keep in mind that only your doctor knows what each term means, and he is the one who must decide what steps to take regarding your treatment.

Usually, you will receive the Results one to three days after your study. Many laboratories and hospitals allow you view them digitally. That way, you can easily save them and share them with more doctors, for example, if you need a Second opinion.

References

X-ray of the lumbosacral spine. Medline Plus.
Sacro (sacral region). Spine Health.
Radiography. Top Doctors Spain.