MRI LUMBAR / LUMBOSACRAL SPINE WITHOUT CONTRAST
Also Known As
Lab Test
₹4000
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
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About The Test
- What it is: A painless, 20–30 minute scan that captures high-resolution pictures of the lower spine and surrounding nerves.
- Why choose Cadabams Diagnostics:
- 1.5 T & 3 T MRI options
- Open and wide-bore machines for claustrophobic patients
- Reports ready in 90 minutes (express slot)
- Home visit support for elderly or immobile patients
- Quick snapshot: No needles, no radiation, same-day clarity.
List of Parameters
- Disc height: Checks for collapse or bulge
- Disc hydration (T2 signal): Dark disc = desiccation (wear & tear)
- Facet joint integrity: Arthritis or instability indicators
- Spinal canal diameter: Room for nerves; stenosis grading
- Nerve root impingement: Pinched nerve confirmation
- Paraspinal muscle edema: Muscle strain or inflammation
Why This Test
- Diagnosing herniated discs causing leg pain
- Evaluating spinal stenosis (narrowing) in elderly
- Pre-surgical planning—exact level and extent of disease
- Monitoring post-surgery recovery—scar vs recurrent herniation
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- High-resolution soft-tissue images—shows nerves, ligaments, discs
- No contrast agent side effects
- Early detection prevents permanent nerve damage
- Same-day results option at Cadabams Diagnostics
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Lumbar/Lumbosacral Spine
- Herniated intervertebral disc
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra)
- Spinal tumors (primary detection)
- Cauda equina compression (emergency)
- Facet joint arthritis
Preparing for test
Instructions
- Fasting: Not required—eat normally.
- Clothing: Wear metal-free attire or change into gown.
- Metal check: Remove jewelry, belts, hearing aids.
Prerequisites & Eligibility
- Compatible implants checklist completed.
- Pregnancy: Safe after first trimester; inform technician.
Procedure for Taking the Test
- Lie on the scanner feet-first.
- Cushions under knees for comfort.
- 20-30 min scan, loud knocking sounds—headphones provided.
- You may listen to music or speak to technician via intercom.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Notify staff if you have:
- Pacemaker / neurostimulator
- Metal fragments in eye
- Severe claustrophobia needing sedation
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation (Structures Assessed) | General Description (What Radiologists Look For) | Interpretation / Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal disc signal | Bright on T2 | Healthy, well-hydrated disc |
| Desiccation | Dark disc on T2 | Early degeneration |
| Mild stenosis | Slight canal narrowing | May respond to physiotherapy |
| Moderate stenosis | 50–75 % narrowing | Medication + epidural |
| Severe stenosis | >75 % narrowing | Likely surgery candidate |
| Nerve root compression | Oval shape flattened | Source of leg pain / sciatica |
| Facet Joints | Assesses for hypertrophy, joint effusion, degeneration, or synovial cysts. | Degenerative facet arthropathy is a common cause of axial low back pain and may exacerbate spinal stenosis. |
| Paraspinal Soft Tissues | Evaluates surrounding muscles and ligaments for edema, strain, inflammation, or abnormal masses. | Muscle strain, inflammation, or soft tissue masses may contribute to pain or reflect underlying systemic pathology. |
Risks & Limitations
- No radiation risk—safe for repeated scans.
- Claustrophobia considerations:
- Open MRI & wide-bore magnets available
- Mild oral sedation on request
- Metal implant restrictions:
- Unsafe with most pacemakers, cochlear implants, some aneurysm clips
- Image clarity limitations: May miss tiny infections or early tumors—contrast MRI ordered if suspicion is high.
FAQs
How long does the scan take?
20–30 minutes depending on the number of levels.
Is sedation available for claustrophobia?
Yes, mild oral sedation on request; arrange a companion for drop-off.
Can I eat before the MRI?
Absolutely—no fasting needed.
Will the scan detect sciatica?
Yes. It identifies which disc or bone is pinching the sciatic nerve.
What if I feel claustrophobic?
Choose our open-MRI option or request a mild oral sedative in advance.
How soon can I get my report?
Standard reports by next morning; express 90-minute option at Cadabams Diagnostics.