A CT scan of the lumbar spine usually takes about 5–15 minutes of actual scanning. Including positioning, paperwork and image processing, plan for 20–30 minutes. If an intravenous contrast dye is used, add another 15–30 minutes for IV placement and brief monitoring. More complex protocols or delays can extend your total appointment to about 45–60 minutes.

Before a lumbar spine CT: wear loose clothing and remove jewelry, belts and metal. Bring ID, referral and any prior scans. Tell staff if you’re pregnant, allergic to contrast, diabetic, or have kidney disease. You may need a blood test for kidney function and to fast for a few hours if IV contrast is planned. Arrive on time and lie still during the scan.

A CT scan cannot show pain itself, but it can detect structural causes of lower back pain such as fractures, bone degeneration, spinal stenosis, tumors, infections, and large disc herniations. CT is less sensitive than MRI for soft-tissue and nerve-root problems. It’s useful when MRI is contraindicated or when detailed bone imaging is needed; clinical assessment is required to link findings to symptoms.

A CT scan cannot directly show nerve damage but can reveal bony and structural causes of spinal nerve compression (fractures, bony spurs, some disc changes). CT myelography better outlines nerve-root impingement. MRI is preferred for visualizing spinal cord, nerves and soft tissues. Functional nerve injury is evaluated with electrophysiological tests (EMG/NCS).

Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal fasteners (zippers, buttons, underwire) because metal can interfere with imaging. Remove jewelry, piercings and hair clips; you may be asked to change into a hospital gown. Avoid makeup with metallic particles and bring previous imaging. Inform staff if pregnant or if you have implants or devices. Wear shoes that are easy to remove.

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