MRI DORSAL SPINE

An MRI of the dorsal spine is a non-invasive test that provides images of the thoracic (dorsal) spine region. It utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cords, and other soft tissues. 

What is MRI of the Dorsal Spine? 

An MRI of dorsal spine utilizes a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to generate images of the dorsal (thoracic) spine without subjecting the patient to ionizing radiation. The test shows high levels of soft tissue contrast which is ideal for diagnosing the spinal cord, intervertebral discs, and nerve roots conditions. 

Types of MRI Dorsal Spine 

• Conventional MRI: MRI is the most common means of evaluating the spinal region, which provides a comprehensive picture. 
• Contrast-Enhanced MRI: MRI after administering a gadolinium contrast, greatly improves the chances of accurately identifying tumours and infections. 
• Functional MRI (fMRI): measuring the spinal cord activity evoked by different stimuli placed on it. 

Parameters Considered During MRI Dorsal Spine

• Alignment of vertebral bodies 
• State of intervertebral disc 
• Shape of spinal cord 
• Lesions of the spine and vertebrae, tumours or infection 
• Openings of vertebral and neural bone cavities 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Dorsal Spine

• Underlying spinal tumour or metastases 
• Herniated or degenerative spinal discs 
• Myelopathy or spinal cord compression  
• Evaluation after surgery (post-operative assessment)  
• Inflammatory spondyloarthropathies like ankylosing spondylitis 

When and Who Needs an MRI Dorsal Spine? 

Indications 

• Ongoing pain in the middle of the back 
• Neurological hearing issues such as loss of feeling or paralysis 
• Possible injury to the spine and the spinal cord’s compression 
• Watching the progress of multiple sclerosis 
• Evaluation of spinal defects that are present from birth 

Patient Demographics 

• Adult patients with persistent pain in the back 
• People whose medical history includes spinal cancers or infections 
• Those with some skeletal unexplained neurological damage 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Non-invasive with no radiation exposure 
• High-definition subcutaneous tissue imaging without slicing the body 
• Advanced imaging of spinal fragment disorders for foresighted surgical planning 
• Principal in planning following surgery and immediate post-surgical evaluation 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Dorsal Spine

• Disc herniation 
• Spinal canal narrowing (stenosis) 
• Tumour or cyst within the spinal cord 
• Inflammatory conditions such as osteomyelitis (bone infection) or discitis (disc inflammation) 
• Osteosclerosis and other demyelinating pathologies 

Preparing for MRI Dorsal Spine

• Elimination of metal jewellery and electronic accessories 
• Loose no elastic form fitting garments have to be worn to avoid motion 
• Informing the technician about concealed implants as well as ongoing pregnancy 
• Fasting pre-procedure in the event of using contrast dye for clarity 

Pre-requisites 

• Absence of an allergy to contrast dye (if necessary to enhance the MRI) 
• Premedication of anxiety or claustrophobia if needed 

Best Time to Take the MRI Dorsal Spine 

• Anytime advised by the attending doctor 
• Preferring planning in advance to lessen waiting time and guarantee prompt attendance 

Eligibility 

• Generally appropriate to all patients with the exception of those with certified incompatibility with metallic implants, or those with cardiac pacing devices (pacemakers) 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Dorsal Spine 

• The patient shall be laid down on the MRI console. 
• A coil is positioned over the region of the spine that has the thorax. 
• The waveform MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create images of the body. 
• A duration in the range of thirty to sixty minutes is required. 
• If required, contrast may be injected. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Notify the radiologist about the pregnancy, any kidney disease, or presence of metallic parts in the body. 
• Move as little as possible during the scan for optimum results.