Has anyone had a 3 D CT scan? Is it worth 2x cost reg CT

[orchidlady]

Had a fall recently, previously had  spinal fusion due to tumor over 20 years ago. Had x-rays, MRI after fall, inconclusive for spinal fractures. Had appointment with Dr. Wicharn but was cancelled as he has recently returned from US and is on self quarantine as precaution (told he is not symtomatic). Saw another Dr who has recommended followup CT scan Lumbar and Thoracic. Didn't get referral paper until after I had paid and when I got home saw that he has requested a 3D scan.

I called the cheaper places Mrithailand and Rachavipa and was told they cannot do the 3D  scan. I have been quoted 32,500 at Urupong (which Dr filled out paper for (but can't call for the appointment due to turf battles for private hospitals), an offsite location non-hospital based but appears to be affiliated with several hospitals, Police General, Thammasat, and others.

 

Wondering what 3d OFFERS OVER A REGULAR 2d SCAN AT TWICE THE PRICE.

[Sheryl]

3D shows images in 3 dimensions and can be helpful if something is otherwise hard to visualize or inconclusive on regular scans. As it sounds like your MRI was inconclusive then a regular CT may not add much more.

 

It needs a skilled specialist to determine if a 3D CT would be worth getting for a specific patient (i.e. would it be likely to change the course of treatment).

 

So it really boils down to how much confidence you have in this doctor. Did he explain why he wanted the scan/what difference the results might make to treatment?

 

Most spinal fractures if not displaced are managed conservatively (anti-inflammatories, braces, rest) so I am not sure what the scan findings might change but that is something you'd need to ask the doctor.

 

Are you symptomatic?

[orchidlady]

yes  had pain in thoracic area immediately and it continues 6 weeks on, have been on nsaid, ice, rest initially.

Basically the scan is to rule out spinal fractures, microfractures, (have osteopenia), possible loosening of screw in spinal fusion (again could have just been mri angle) and because I had first generation fusion the metal produces too much scatter obscuring at least 5 levels. Dr has same academic rank as Dr Wichen, saw him at Bumrungrad.

 

[Sheryl]

Then I think you should probably follow his advice and get the scan. I don't think he would have specified 3D if he didn't think it necessary to properly visualize what is going on.

[orchidlady]

thank you, Sheryl