A cross-sectional examination of the neck organs and soft tissues: the thyroid gland, lymph nodes, pharynx, larynx, trachea and oesophagus. It helps detect tumours, inflammation, cysts, injuries and foreign bodies.
- Duration5 minutes, with contrast 20–30 minutes
- Contrastif indicated
- Preparationnone (with contrast: empty stomach)
- Report1–2 hours
What it shows
- The thyroid gland, lymph nodes, muscles and fascial spaces of the neck
- The nasopharynx, larynx, trachea and oesophagus — their lumen and walls
- Benign and malignant tumours, lymph node metastases
- Inflammation: abscesses, infiltrates, phlegmon
- Neck cysts and haematomas
- Foreign bodies and their exact position
- Polyps and mucosal thickening in the hollow organs
- Diverticula of the larynx and oesophagus
When it is recommended
- Neck injury with suspected organ damage
- Enlarged lymph nodes of unknown cause
- A lump or cyst in the neck
- Suspected tumour, search for metastases
- Inflammation of the neck tissues (abscess, phlegmon)
- A foreign body — planning its removal
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Developmental anomalies of the neck organs
Preparation
- If contrast is planned, come on an empty stomach
Good to know
- CT is usually ordered after a thyroid ultrasound or an X-ray, which helps narrow down the area of interest.
- MRI is usually preferred for injuries of the neck muscles and ligaments.
- With an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), iodinated IV contrast may be undesirable — be sure to tell the doctor.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.