MRI COCCYX

Introduction 

MRI Coccyx is a specific imaging scan to assess the tailbone region (coccyx vertebra) with its surrounding soft tissues. It is quite helpful where X-rays or CT scans are not helpful and where there is potential soft tissue or marrow involvement with chronic pain, trauma, or masses.  

What is Coccyx MRI Scan? 

MRI of coccyx employs magnetic fields and radio waves to capture highly detailed images of the coccygeal spine, ligaments, muscles, and the subcutaneous tissues as well as structures within the adjacent pelvis. It also surpasses X-rays in the detection of soft tissue changes, Edema, and altered bone marrow. 

• Anatomy and the marrow for tailbone: T1 weighted images  
• Edema and inflammation for T2/STIR sequences  
• Fat suppressed sequences  
• Sequences with contrast if a tumour or infection is suspected 

• Assess pain for which x-ray did not provide a reason.  
• Look at soft tissues for swelling or bruising.  
• Examine the joints for partial dislocation and evaluate the discs for degeneration.  
• Identify cysts, masses, or infectious processes.  

When and Who Needs a Coccyx MRI Test? 

Indications: 

• Coccydynia: unexplained and persistent tailbone pain 
• Trauma-induced pain with normal X-ray findings 
• Tumour, cyst or abscess of unknown origin 
• Evaluation for inflammatory processes and degenerative changes 
• Infections such as osteomyelitis and sacrococcygeal abscess 

Patient Demographics: 

• Adults suffering from chronic coccydynia  
• Women who are postpartum  
• Patients with a history of coccygeal trauma  
• Elderly individuals who complain of pain while sitting  
• Pilonidal or dermoid cysts located near the coccyx in women  

Benefits of Coccyx MRI Scan

• Clear outlines of structures within soft tissues. 
• More effective than X-ray in noting inflammation and cancer. 
• No risk of radiation exposure. 
• Can identify subtle fractures and degenerative changes. 

Conditions Diagnosed with Coccyx MRI Test

• Coccydynia. 
• Coccygeal fractures or subluxation. 
• Bone marrow Edema (bruising). 
• Infective conditions (osteomyelitis, abscess). 
• Tumours, benign or malignant (for example: chordoma). 
• Pilonidal sinus or dermoid cysts. 
• Inflammatory or degenerative joint disease. 

• No fasting requirements. 
• Removal of metal accessories. 
• Staff should be informed regarding any pelvic implants. 

Pre-requisites Before a Coccyx MRI Scan 

• A clinical history, interventions done, and accompanying symptom details. 
• Relevant previous imaging done (X-ray or CT). 
• If contrast is planned (which is rarely the case) then a Renal function check is needed. 

Best Time for Coccyx MRI Test 

• Following trauma with persistent pain and normal X-ray. 
• Chronic pain beyond 6 weeks. 
• Suspected abscess or tumour in peri coccygeal region. 

Eligibility for Coccyx MRI Scans 

• Patients with persistent tailbone pain over the age of 13. 
• Patients with devices that are incompatible with MRI are excluded. 
• Claustrophobic patients should be considered for sedation. 

Coccyx MRI Scan Procedure 

• The patient is positioned supine, sometimes prone. 
• The MRI coils are placed over the lower back and pelvic region. 
• Several sets of images are taken in T1, T2, and STIR. 
• If a mass or infection is suspected, Gadolinium- based contrast may be administered. 
• Total duration for scan: 20-30 minutes 

Caution During Coccyx MRI Test 

• Patients must not move to prevent motion blur. 
• Claustrophobic patients may require mild sedation.  
• Contraindications: absence of red flag features such as tumours.