The thoracic spine is the most stable part of the vertebral column because it is supported by the ribs and rib cage. However, this region is often underestimated in diagnostics, which may lead to prolonged neglect of conditions associated with back pain, posture disorders, and neurological symptoms.

CT is recommended in cases where the patient experiences:

• Chronic or acute pain in the thoracic spine not related to heart or lung diseases
• Limited back mobility, muscle stiffness, or inability to fully straighten the back
• Thoracic spine injuries (fractures, compression injuries, suspected vertebral displacement)
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, back, or chest that may indicate nerve root compression
• Spinal developmental abnormalities such as kyphosis, scoliosis, or Scheuermann’s disease
• Suspected primary or metastatic spinal tumors
• Inflammatory conditions (spondylitis, osteomyelitis)

What Can Be Detected with a CT Scan of the Thoracic Spine?

• Compression fractures, especially in patients with osteoporosis or after trauma
• Congenital or acquired vertebral deformities affecting spinal function
• Intervertebral disc herniations and protrusions, even at early stages
• Structural changes caused by osteoporosis and reduced bone density
• Tumors and metastases, including their size and location
• Signs of acute or chronic inflammatory processes in the spine