MRI DORSAL LUMBER SPINE
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
What Is MRI Dorsal Lumbar Spine?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the dorsal (thoracic) and lumbar spine uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed cross-sectional images. It visualises:
- Vertebral bodies (T1–L5)
- Intervertebral discs
- Spinal cord and nerve roots
- Surrounding ligaments and muscles
Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI uses no ionising radiation, making it safe for repeated use.
List of Parameters
- Vertebral alignment – scoliosis, fractures
- Disc height & signal – dehydration, herniation
- Spinal cord & nerves – compression, swelling
- Soft tissues & ligaments – tears, inflammation
Why This Test
- Persistent lower or mid-back pain unresponsive to physiotherapy
- Radicular symptoms – tingling, “pins and needles”
- Post-trauma screening after accidents
- Monitoring chronic conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis lesions
When to Take Test
Your doctor may recommend an MRI Dorsal Lumbar Spine if you have:
- Persistent back or leg pain lasting >6 weeks
- Numbness or weakness in legs
- History of trauma (fall, RTA)
- Suspected disc herniation, infection, or tumour monitoring
- Pre- or post-surgical assessment
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Zero radiation – safe for children and adults
- Early detection of small disc bulges or early stenosis
- Pre-surgical roadmap – surgeons plan precise interventions
- One-stop scan – evaluates bone, disc, nerve, and soft tissue simultaneously
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Dorsal Lumbar Spine
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
- Spinal tumours or infections
- Cauda equina syndrome (medical emergency)
Preparing for test
Pre-Requisites
- Fasting: Not required for plain MRI; 4-hour fast if contrast is used.
- Clothing: Wear metal-free attire or change into our gown.
- Metal screening: Remove jewellery, hearing aids, and credit cards.
Best Time to Schedule
Morning slots reduce waiting time and allow same-day reporting via email or patient portal.
Eligibility
- Pregnancy: Notify us; scan deferred in first trimester.
- Pacemaker: Most modern devices are MRI-compatible; bring device card.
Procedure Snapshot
- Lie supine on the MRI table.
- Coil placed over lower back; earplugs provided.
- Scan lasts 20–30 minutes; remain still.
- Contrast injection (if required) takes an extra 5 minutes.
Cautions
- Inform staff of claustrophobia—sedation or open MRI options available.
- Kidney function test (eGFR) required before contrast if >60 years or diabetic.
Test Results
Lumbar Spine MRI – Key Findings and Clinical Significance
| Finding / Observation | Description (Example from a Report) | General Interpretation / Significance (Potential Implications) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal alignment | Vertebrae stacked correctly | No instability |
| Disc desiccation | Dark T2 signal | Early degeneration |
| Disc protrusion | Herniated disc touching nerve | May cause sciatica |
| Spinal stenosis | Narrowing of canal | Leg pain on walking |
| Enhancing lesion | Bright with contrast | Possible tumour/infection |
| Nerve Root Impingement | Direct contact or compression of a nerve root by disc material, bone, or hypertrophic tissue within the foramen or lateral recess. | Leads to radicular pain, numbness, or weakness in a dermatomal pattern. L5 impingement may affect dorsiflexion and lateral leg. |
Risks & Limitations
- Minimal risk: No radiation; contrast dye rarely causes allergies.
- Limitations: Not suitable for patients with certain pacemakers, cochlear implants, or severe claustrophobia (open MRI options available).
- Pregnancy: Generally avoided in first trimester unless essential.
FAQs
Is the scan painful?
No. You may feel warmth; loud knocking is normal.
How long does it take?
20–30 minutes for plain scan; 35–40 minutes with contrast.
Can I eat before the scan?
Yes, unless contrast is planned.
When will I get my report?
Same evening for morning slots; next day otherwise.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
Yes, for insurance; walk-ins accepted for self-pay.
What are the main differences between an X-ray and an MRI for the spine?
X-rays and MRIs are both valuable but show different things:
X-rays: Show bones. Good for fractures or arthritis. Limited detail on soft tissues like discs, nerves, or marrow.
MRI: Shows bones and soft tissues. Excellent for discs, cord, nerves, muscles, and subtle bone changes. Usually better for back pain with nerve issues or soft tissue pathology.