A thoracic spine x-ray is an x-ray of the twelve chest (thoracic) vertebrae. The vertebrae are separated by flat pads of cartilage that cushion them.

The x-ray helps evaluate bone injuries, disease of the bone, tumors of the bone, or cartilage loss.

The test is done in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider’s office. You will lie on the x-ray table and will be asked to lay in different positions. If the x-ray is to determine an injury, care will be taken to prevent further injury.

The x-ray machine will be positioned over the thoracic area of the spine. You will hold your breath as the picture is taken, so that the picture will not be blurry. Usually 2 or 3 x-ray views are needed.

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.

Th test causes no discomfort. The table may be cold.