MRI DORSAL 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 the Dorsal Spine?
The dorsal (thoracic) spine sits between the neck and lower back. It consists of:
- 12 vertebrae labeled T1–T12
- 12 pairs of ribs that attach to most of these vertebrae
- Spinal cord, nerve roots, discs, ligaments, and blood vessels
Because this region is attached to the rib cage, pain here can stem from bone, disc, nerve, or even lung and heart issues—making clear imaging essential.
How MRI Captures Dorsal Spine Anatomy
An MRI Dorsal Spine scan uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create multi-angle pictures. Unlike X-rays, MRI shows:
- Soft-tissue contrast (disc, cord, fat, vessels)
- Bone marrow changes before they appear on CT
- Fluid-sensitive sequences that light up infection or tumor
The scan lasts 15–25 minutes and involves no ionising radiation.
List of Parameters
- Vertebral body height & alignment
- Disc height, hydration, annular tears
- Cord signal—any T2 bright spots?
- CSF space narrowing
- Facet joint hypertrophy
- Ligamentum flavum thickness
- Paraspinal soft-tissue swelling or mass
- Signal intensity patterns: fat, fluid, blood, calcification
Why This Test
Diagnostic
- Confirm or rule out herniated thoracic disc
- Detect spinal cord tumors early
- Identify vertebral metastases before pain escalates
Pre-surgical Planning
Surgeons use our high-resolution images to:
- Map the exact level for decompression
- Decide on anterior vs. posterior approach
- Avoid vascular structures
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Zero radiation—safe for children, pregnant patients (after 1st trimester)
- High-resolution images—see 1 mm lesions
- Same-day digital report—accessible via app
- Colour 3-D reconstruction—easier to understand your condition
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Dorsal Spine
Herniated Discs
Protrusion compressing the cord causes torso numbness.
Spinal Cord Tumors
Astrocytoma, meningioma, or metastasis show bright enhancement.
Vertebral Fractures
Occult compression fractures visible on STIR sequences within 24 h.
Infections & Inflammation
Discitis, osteomyelitis, or abscess display fluid-sensitive changes.
Preparing for test
Pre-requisites
- Bring doctor’s prescription & old films/CDs
- Fasting 2 h if contrast is likely
- Remove jewellery, hairpins, cards with magnetic strips
Best Time to Take the MRI Dorsal Spine
Morning slots minimise fasting discomfort; post-work slots available till 9 pm.
Eligibility
- Adults & children >4 years (younger kids need sedation)
- BMI limit 180 kg in wide-bore scanner
Procedure for Taking a MRI Dorsal Spine
- Change into cotton gown
- Lie supine, coil placed over mid-back
- Ear-plugs + alarm button handed to you
- Table moves in; hold still for each 3-5 min sequence
- Contrast injection (if ordered) halfway through
- Total time 20 min; you can resume normal activity immediately
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform if pregnant or breastfeeding
- Disclose allergies, asthma, or previous gadolinium reaction
- Keep NPO 2 h if contrast is planned
Test Results
Thoracic Spine MRI – Key Findings and Clinical Significance
| Finding / Observation | Description (Example from a Report) | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Uniform disc height, cord signal intact | No pathology, consider physiotherapy |
| Disc bulge | Disc extends beyond vertebral margin <3 mm | May be age-related; correlate with symptoms |
| Cord compression | CSF space obliterated, cord flattened | Needs neuro-surgical opinion |
| Marrow edema | STIR bright signal in vertebral body | Fracture, infection, or metastasis |
| Enhancing mass | Focal uptake after gadolinium | Tumor work-up required |
| Syrinx | Fluid cavity within cord | Neurology referral for syrinx protocol |
| Paravertebral Soft Tissues | Unremarkable. No soft tissue masses, collections, or abnormal signal intensity identified. | Surrounding muscles and soft tissues are normal; no signs of inflammation, mass, or trauma. |
| Incidental Finding: Hemangioma at T5 | Well-defined lesion in T5 vertebral body; T1 and T2 hyperintense; measures 8 mm. | Typical appearance of a benign vertebral hemangioma—a vascular lesion of no clinical concern unless large or symptomatic (rare). |
Risks & Limitations
Safety Profile & Contraindications
MRI is one of the safest imaging tests, but please tell us if you have:
- Cardiac pacemaker or loop recorder
- Cochlear implant
- Insulin pump or neuro-stimulator
- Metal fragments in eyes
- Severe kidney disease (if contrast is planned)
Our staff runs a 2-step safety checklist and provides ear-plugs to dull knocking sounds.
Claustrophobia Considerations
Feel anxious in tight spaces? Choose our wide-bore 70 cm MRI or request mild sedation (prescription required). Mirror goggles and music streaming are complimentary.
FAQs
Does the scan hurt?
No. MRI is painless; you only hear tapping sounds.
Can I wear my bra during the MRI Dorsal Spine?
Under-wired bras must be removed; we provide a gown.
How soon can I get an appointment?
We offer same-day or next-day slots; book via website or call
Is gadolinium dye safe for kidneys?
We screen creatinine levels; low-dose, macrocyclic agents minimise risk.
Will my insurance cover the test?
Most panels empanel Cadabams Diagnostics; cashless facility available.
What if I am claustrophobic about the MRI scanner?
If you suffer from claustrophobia or anxiety about enclosed spaces, please inform our staff at Cadabams Diagnostics when you book your MRI Dorsal Spine appointment. We can discuss several options to help you manage this:
* Our technologists are experienced in supporting anxious patients and can talk you through the procedure.
* You can often listen to music through headphones.
* An eye mask might help.
* In some cases, your referring doctor may prescribe a mild sedative to take before the scan. If sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home.
* For very severe cases, your doctor might discuss alternatives, though standard closed MRI provides the best image quality.
How much does an MRI for the thoracic spine cost?
The cost of MRI for thoracic spine (or MRI Dorsal Spine) can vary depending on several factors, including whether contrast material is used and the complexity of the scan. For specific and up-to-date pricing information for an MRI Dorsal Spine at Cadabams Diagnostics, please contact our billing department directly.