[The diagnostic significance of spinal computer tomography with special reference to perpendicular projection (author's transl)].

The computer tomographic examination of the spine and of the cord by third generation apparatus is of increasing diagnostic value because of improved spacial resolution and density discrimination. By means of a localisation scan or topogram, it is possible to choose an accurate position for the section through the area of interest and to tilt the gantry to produce a ray parallel to the neural arch. All abnormalities affecting the spine can easily by localised and their extent determined. Intraspinal tumours and disc prolapse in the cervical and lumbar region, where the spinal canal is relatively wide, can be differentiated from the cord by a simple scan. In the thoracic region, on the other hand, it is necessary to use intrathecal contrast injections for the diagnosis of purely intraspinal processes.