MRI CERVICAL / CERVICO-DORSAL SPINE WITHOUT CONTRAST

MRI CERVICAL / CERVICO - DORSAL SPINE WITHOUT CONTRAST OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION 

Cervical and cervico-dorsal spine MRI scans without contrast are part of the non-invasive diagnostic procedures that examine the upper and middle regions of the spine. This imaging technique captures the vertebrae, spinal cord, intervertebral discs, and surrounding soft tissues with great clarity and without the addition of contrast materials.  

WHAT IS MRI CERVICAL / CERVICO - DORSAL SPINE WITHOUT CONTRAST? 

MRI utilizes a strong magnetic field and radio frequencies to produce images of the cervical (neck) and upper thoracic (dorsal) spine in great detail. Because this test does not involve the use of contrast, it is ideal for assessing structural and neurological changes due to abnormalities with lower risks when compared to using contrast agents. 

Types of MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine 

• Standard MRI: Produces images with high detail of an examined structure. 
• Functional MRI (fMRI): Tests the responsiveness of the spinal cord to stimuli. 
• Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI): Determines the nerve fibre pathological changes. 

Parameters Considered During the MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine

• Alignment and angulation of the vertebrae. 
• Height and integrity of the intervertebral disc. 
• Shape of the spinal cord. 
• Positions of lesions, tumours, or infections 
• Neural foramen patency 

Reasons for taking the MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine Without Contrast

• Tumours or cysts of the spinal cord are suspected.  
• Advanced studies of cranio-vertebral degenerative disco-pathology.  
• Nerve root entrapment signalling.  
• Examination of autoimmune or inflammatory diseases.  

When and Who Needs MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine Without Contrast? 

Indications: 

• Chronic neck and upper back pain. 
• Neurological signs like numbness, paraesthesia, or weakness of the arms and hands. 
• Suspected fracture or compression of spine. 
• Assessment of spinal neoplasms or cystic lesions. 
• Monitoring of chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis. 

Patient Demographics: 

• Patients with long-standing neck or back discomfort. 
• Individuals with a history of spinal injury. 
• Patients with obscure neurological signs. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• The method is non-invasive and uses no radiation.  
• Achieves unparalleled resolution of soft tissue detail.  
• Vital for the timely intervention on spinal pathology.  
• Important for surgical planning and evaluation after the operation.  

Conditions Diagnosed with MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine Without Contrast

• Ruptured intervertebral discs.  
• Compression and degenerative (spondylosis) changes of the cervical spine.  
• Tumours or cysts of the spinal cord.  
• Osteoarthritis and other degenerative diseases of the spine.  
• Demyelinating disease including multiple sclerosis.  

Preparing for MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine Without Contrast

• Gently remove all metal parts of clothing and electronic items.  
• Dress in comfortable, loose clothes.  
• Tell the operator about the implants or if you are pregnant.  
• Show up not hungry, as fasting before the test is not required.  

Prerequisites 

• No known history of contrast allergy.  
• No waiting and special preparations required.  

Best Time for MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine Without Contrast 

• At any time, according to physician suggestion.  
• Booked appointments guarantee no delays.  

Eligibility:  

• Most patients are within the safe threshold. 
• Not safe for those with incompatible metal implants or pacemakers  

Procedure for taking the MRI Cervical / Cervico-Dorsal Spine Without Contrast 

• The patient is positioned on the MRI table 
• A coil is secured to the neck and upper back area 
• The MRI machine captures images by means of generating magnetic fields and radio waves 
• The time the procedure is scheduled for is between 30-60 minutes 
• No contrast injection is needed back 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Tell the radiologist if there is a pregnancy history, kidney disorders, or metal implants 
• During the scan, maintain stillness to the best of your ability if you wish to achieve clear images