MRI NECK
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
- Purpose: Detailed images of cervical spine, soft tissues, thyroid & vessels
- Duration: 20–40 minutes
- Cadabams Advantage: 3T scanner, same-day reports, zero-radiation imaging
List of Parameters
- Cervical spine alignment and disc height
- Soft-tissue structures—thyroid, lymph nodes, salivary glands
- Major vessels—carotid & vertebral arteries for stenosis
- Spinal cord signal for myelopathy or compression
Why This Test
- Persistent neck pain with radiculopathy unrelieved by physiotherapy
- Suspected mass or enlarged lymph nodes felt on clinical exam
- Follow-up after abnormal ultrasound showing thyroid nodules
- Evaluation after trauma to rule out ligament tears
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of the Neck MRI Scan
- Non-invasive & radiation-free—safe for all age groups
- Early detection of disc herniation, infection or malignancy
- Guides treatment—surgery vs. conservative care based on exact pathology
Conditions Diagnosed by Neck MRI Test
Illness | Key MRI Finding |
---|---|
Cervical disc herniation | Disc protrusion compressing nerve root |
Thyroid nodules | Well-defined or irregular mass in thyroid bed |
Lymphadenopathy | Enlarged lymph nodes with or without necrosis |
Carotid stenosis | Reduced vessel lumen & plaque characterization |
Preparing for test
- Diet: Eat normally unless contrast is planned—then fast 4 hrs prior
- Medications: Continue all regular drugs; bring prescription list
- Clothing: Wear metal-free attire; locker provided for valuables
- Metal removal checklist:
- Remove jewellery, watch, hairpins
- Empty pockets of coins & cards
Prerequisites
- Valid doctor’s prescription with clinical history
- Latest KFT report if contrast dye scheduled
- Previous imaging CDs (if any) for comparison
Best Time to Take the MRI Neck
- Morning slots (7 am–11 am): Preferred for fasting contrast studies
- Same-day emergency availability for trauma or acute swelling
- Flexible evening slots on prior booking
Eligibility
- Adults & children above 5 years
- Pregnancy: Deferred during 1st trimester unless critical; 2nd & 3rd trimester safe without contrast
Procedure for Taking an MRI Neck
- Registration & consent
- Change into gown, secure belongings
- Lie supine on scanner table; neck coil positioned
- Scan begins: loud knocking sounds—earplugs provided
- Contrast injection (if ordered) via IV midway
- Total time: 20–40 minutes
- Post-scan observation for 15 min after contrast
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform staff about:
- Pacemaker, ICD, or any implant
- Previous reaction to gadolinium
- History of claustrophobia
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
---|---|---|
Normal cervical discs | Uniform disc height, no protrusion | No nerve compression |
Disc herniation at C5-C6 | Disc material compressing C6 nerve | May require surgery or physiotherapy |
Thyroid nodule 1.2 cm | Hypointense on T1, hyperintense on T2 | FNAC advised to rule out malignancy |
Enlarged lymph node | >1 cm with necrotic centre | Infection or metastasis work-up |
Moderate Left Neural Foraminal Narrowing at C6-C7 | Narrowing of the left C7 neural foramen due to uncovertebral and facet joint hypertrophy. | May impinge the exiting C7 nerve root, possibly leading to radicular symptoms like arm pain, paresthesias, or weakness (e.g., in triceps or middle finger). |
Risks & Limitations
- Contrast allergies: Mild rash to rare anaphylaxis; inform about shellfish or iodine allergy
- Kidney considerations: KFT report required if eGFR < 30 mL/min to prevent nephrogenic systemic fibrosis
- Claustrophobia: Open-bore MRI available; light sedation optional
- Metal implants: Pacemakers, cochlear implants or spinal rods may be contraindicated
FAQs
Is MRI Neck painful?
No. It is painless; you only need to lie still.
How long for results?
Same-day for routine scans; 1 hour for emergencies.
Can I drive after the scan?
Yes, unless sedated. No recovery period needed.
Is sedation available?
Light oral sedation offered for claustrophobic patients.
Does insurance cover the cost?
Most policies cover medically indicated scans; cashless facility at Cadabams.
Are there any side effects from the MRI Neck scan dye?
If contrast dye (gadolinium) is used for your MRI Neck Scan, side effects are rare and usually mild. They can include a temporary feeling of warmth or coolness at the injection site, a metallic taste in the mouth, headache, or brief nausea. Severe allergic reactions are very uncommon. Please inform our staff at Cadabams Diagnostics of any allergies or previous reactions to contrast agents.