MRI DORSAL / DORSO-LUMBAR SPINE WITH CONTRAST
Also Known As
Lab Test
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About The Test
- Quick snapshot: A magnetic resonance study of the mid- and lower-back (T6–L2) after injection of gadolinium contrast.
- Why contrast is used: The dye highlights inflammation, infection, tumors, and post-surgical scar tissue that plain MRI can miss.
List of Parameters
- Vertebrae alignment – scoliosis, fractures, listhesis
- Disc hydration & height – early degeneration, dehydration
- Spinal cord signal – myelomalacia, demyelination
- Nerve root impingement – foraminal or central stenosis
- Contrast enhancement patterns – rings of abscess, tumor blush, post-op scar
Why This Test
- Detect infections (discitis, osteomyelitis) or tumors (primary or metastatic).
- Evaluate post-surgery changes—differentiate scar from recurrent disc.
- Assess inflammation such as transverse myelitis or multiple sclerosis plaques.
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- High-resolution soft-tissue detail without radiation.
- Early detection prevents permanent nerve damage.
- Guides targeted treatment—surgery vs. conservative care vs. oncology referral.
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Dorsal/Dorso-Lumbar Spine with Contrast
| Illness | How MRI Helps |
|---|---|
| Herniated discs | Shows exact level and nerve compression. |
| Spinal tumors | Enhancing mass, extent, and cord involvement. |
| Abscesses | Ring-enhancing collections near the spine. |
| Multiple sclerosis plaques | Active lesions light up with contrast. |
| Spinal stenosis | Pinpoints bone, ligament, or disc causing narrowing. |
Preparing for test
- Fasting: 4 hours for solids, 2 hours for clear liquids.
- Metal screening: Remove jewellery, hairpins, hearing aids.
- Clothing: Wear metal-free attire or change into our provided gown.
Pre-requisites
- Creatinine/eGFR report (within 4 weeks).
- Previous imaging for comparison.
- Doctor’s prescription specifying “MRI dorsal/dorso-lumbar spine with contrast”.
Best Time to Take the MRI Dorsal/Dorso-Lumbar Spine with Contrast
- Morning slots: Easier fasting, shorter wait times.
- Avoid acute flare-ups: Severe pain may limit stillness; reschedule if needed.
Eligibility
- Adults & children ≥5 years (with parental consent).
- Pregnancy: Deferred in first trimester; later trimesters if clinically urgent.
- Renal function: eGFR ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m² for contrast use.
Procedure for Taking an MRI Dorsal/Dorso-Lumbar Spine with Contrast
- Check-in & consent – ID, history, consent form.
- IV contrast line – small cannula in arm vein.
- Positioning – lie on your back, spine coil over mid-back.
- Scanning – 20-30 minutes; loud knocking sounds, earplugs provided.
- Post-scan observation – 15 minutes for any contrast reaction.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform about allergies – to contrast, iodine, or shellfish (rare cross-reactivity).
- Remove all metallic objects – belts, watches, credit cards.
- Sedation – oral or IV available for claustrophobia; arrange an escort.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation/Significance Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Bulging disc | Disc extends beyond vertebral margin | May or may not compress nerve |
| Nerve root enhancement | Bright signal after contrast | Active inflammation or compression |
| Ring-enhancing lesion | Central low, peripheral high signal | Possible abscess or tumor |
| Cord edema | High T2 signal within cord | Acute injury or inflammatory myelitis |
| Post-surgical scar | Linear enhancement, no mass | Normal healing vs. recurrent disc |
| Paravertebral Soft Tissues | Evaluates adjacent muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues for inflammation, fluid, abscess, or tumors. | Infections can spread to paravertebral regions (e.g., in spondylodiscitis). Soft tissue masses or abscesses may show enhancement after contrast and guide treatment. |
| Epidural Space | Focuses on abnormal collections (abscess, hematoma), enhancement, or mass lesions in the space between the thecal sac and bony vertebrae. | Epidural abscess or metastatic spread often shows intense enhancement and can cause severe neurological symptoms due to compression. Urgent attention is often needed. |
| Contrast Enhancement Patterns (SK5) | Describes how gadolinium contrast is taken up: patterns may be ring, nodular, diffuse, linear, etc. | Enhancement patterns help distinguish between pathologies. Ring enhancement suggests abscess or necrotic tumor. Diffuse enhancement often indicates inflammation or infection (e.g., discitis, MS plaque). Helps define lesion activity, vascularity, and guides diagnosis and treatment planning. Key to contrast-enhanced MRI value. |
Risks & Limitations
| Factor | What You Should Know |
|---|---|
| Gadolinium contrast | Very safe; tiny chance of mild nausea or rash (<1%). |
| Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) | Extremely rare; avoided by checking kidney function first. |
| Claustrophobia | Open-bore or wide-bore machines and light sedation are available. |
| Contraindications | Cardiac pacemakers (some models), cochlear implants, first-trimester pregnancy, severe kidney disease (eGFR <30). |
FAQs
How long does the scan take?
Plan 45–60 minutes total (30 min scan + 15 min observation).
Is the contrast injection painful?
Most feel only a cool sensation in the arm for a few seconds.
When will I get my report?
Same evening for morning slots; next morning for afternoon scans.
Can I drive home after?
Yes, unless you received sedation—in that case, bring a companion.
Do I need to fast before the scan?
Fasting is not required for this MRI. However, follow any specific instructions your doctor provides.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
We offer a wide-bore 70 cm scanner, music headphones, and mild sedation on request.