Spine MRI

The patient will be asked to sign a consent form confirming that none of the above apply before the study will be performed.

A hospital gown may be recommended, or the patient may be allowed to wear clothing without metal fasteners.

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For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

Generally there is no pain associated with MRI. Some people are uncomfortable with being inside the scanner and may feel claustrophobic. The table may be hard or cold, but you can request a blanket or pillow. The machine produces loud thumping and humming noises during normal operation. Ear plugs are usually given to the patient to reduce the noise.

A technologist observes the patient during the entire procedure and may be spoken to through an intercom in the scanner. Some MRI scanners are equipped with televisions and special headphones to help time pass during the scan.

Excessive movement can blur MRI images and cause certain image errors. If the patient has difficulty lying still or is very anxious, an oral or intravenous sedative may be given. There is no usually no need for a recovery period, unless sedation was necessary.

After an MRI scan, you can resume normal diet, activity, and medications.

Why the test is performed:

Spine MRI may show the exact location of tumors or other lesions of the spine, spinal cord, or intervertebral disks. It provides detailed pictures of hard-to-view areas of the spine, including the spinal canal, bony segments, and soft tissue. MRI is sometimes used to avoid the dangers of exposure to contrast dye or radiation.

Spine MRI may be performed in a trauma setting to rule out acute compression of the spinal cord in the setting of weakness or paralysis. MRI is also superior to CT in the evaluation of abscesses, tumors, or other masses near the spinal cord. While CT is better at detecting fractures of the vertebrae, MRI can detect subtle changes in the bone which may be due to infection or tumor.