CT Neck Scan – Purpose, Procedure & Cost in Delhi

A CT Neck scan, also known as neck computed tomography, is a high-resolution imaging test used to visualize the structures of the neck, including bones, blood vessels, muscles, lymph nodes, airway, thyroid, salivary glands, and soft tissues. It provides cross-sectional and 3D images that allow doctors to diagnose infections, tumors, trauma, inflammation, and other abnormalities in the cervical region. CT neck is a non-invasive, relatively quick test often recommended when symptoms like swelling, persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, unexplained neck pain, or enlarged lymph nodes are present. In a healthcare-rich city like Delhi, CT neck scans are widely accessible and performed routinely in diagnostic centers for a broad range of head and neck conditions.

Purpose of CT Neck Scan

CT neck scans offer detailed views of the anatomy and pathology of the neck. This test is frequently used to investigate symptoms, plan surgeries, and evaluate known diseases.

Evaluating Neck Masses or Swelling

CT can differentiate between cysts, tumors, lymph node enlargement, and abscesses.

Detecting Tumors and Cancers

CT neck is useful in detecting and staging cancers of the throat, larynx (voice box), thyroid, lymph nodes, and salivary glands.

Assessing Infections or Abscesses

It helps identify deep neck infections, cellulitis, and abscess formation which are not visible on the surface.

Planning for Surgery or Biopsy

CT scans provide anatomical details that aid in surgical planning or guiding fine-needle aspiration or biopsies.

Trauma or Injury Evaluation

CT imaging can detect fractures of cervical vertebrae, bleeding, hematomas, or soft tissue injuries after accidents.

Monitoring Thyroid or Parathyroid Disorders

Enlargement, nodules, or tumors in the thyroid and parathyroid glands can be assessed using CT.

Identifying Vascular Abnormalities

CT angiography of the neck can evaluate arteries and veins for aneurysms, blockages, or clots.

Investigating Hoarseness, Pain, or Difficulty Swallowing

These symptoms may indicate growths or other abnormalities affecting the vocal cords or pharynx.

Evaluating Airway Narrowing or Obstruction

CT can help detect tracheal stenosis, tumors, or foreign objects in the airway.

Depending on the clinical condition, the scan may focus on a specific area or cover the entire neck region from the skull base to the thoracic inlet.

Procedure: What to Expect During a CT Neck Scan

CT neck scans are simple and quick procedures, usually completed within 10–30 minutes. They may be performed with or without contrast, depending on the indication.

Before the Scan

• You may be asked to fast for 4–6 hours, especially if contrast dye will be used.

• Inform your doctor or technician if you have allergies (especially to iodine), kidney disease, thyroid conditions, or if you're pregnant.

• Remove metal jewelry or accessories from your neck and upper body to avoid image distortion.

Contrast Use

• Intravenous (IV) contrast may be administered through a vein in your arm to enhance visualization of blood vessels, lymph nodes, tumors, and soft tissues.

• You may feel a warm sensation or a metallic taste after contrast injection, which usually fades within minutes.

During the Scan

• You will lie flat on a motorized table that slides into the CT scanner.

• The technician may ask you to lie still and occasionally hold your breath to avoid motion blur.

• The scanner will rotate around your head and neck, capturing multiple images that are reconstructed into detailed views.

After the Scan

• If no sedation is given, you can go home or return to normal activities right away.

• If contrast was used, drink water to help flush it from your body.

• A radiologist will analyze the images and send a detailed report to your referring doctor within 24 to 48 hours.

CT neck scans are generally safe and well tolerated. Risks associated with radiation exposure or contrast dye are minimal and well-managed in professional settings.

Cost of CT Neck in Delhi

The cost of a CT neck scan in Delhi typically ranges from ₹4,000 to ₹9,000, depending on:

• Whether contrast is used (CT neck with contrast costs more)

• Type of CT scanner used (basic vs. multi-slice or high-resolution)

• Reputation and location of the diagnostic center

• Inclusion of radiologist’s report and scan CD

General Price Breakdown

• Non-contrast CT neck: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000

• CT neck with contrast: ₹6,000 – ₹9,000

It’s advisable to confirm the total price beforehand and ask if it includes the entire procedure and reporting. Some centers may also require a recent kidney function test if contrast is being used.

Conclusion

CT Neck is an essential diagnostic tool that offers detailed, high-resolution imaging of the complex anatomy in the neck region. Whether it's to evaluate suspicious lumps, guide surgical planning, or detect hidden infections or tumors, CT neck scans provide quick and reliable results. In Delhi, where modern healthcare and imaging facilities are abundant, getting a CT neck scan is easy and accessible. The procedure is safe, non-invasive, and critical in helping healthcare providers diagnose conditions early and accurately. If you are experiencing persistent neck swelling, throat discomfort, unexplained pain, or have been advised by your doctor to get a CT neck scan, you can confidently proceed knowing that the procedure is straightforward and available at most diagnostic centers in the city.