MRI NECK

MRI - NECK (Without or With Contrast) Overview

Introduction 

MRI of the neck is an imaging method which provides cross-sectional pictures of the soft tissues, blood vessels, glands, and lymph nodes of the neck. This type of scan is done to evaluate cervical tumours, infections, congenital abnormal growths, or vascular lesions. 

What is MRI of the Neck? 

MRI utilizes strong magnetic fields and radio frequency to image the soft tissues of the body. It does not use radiation, unlike a CT scan. MRI is especially good at imaging the muscles, glands, neck nerves, blood vessels, and lymph nodes. 

Parameters Considered During Neck MRI Scan

• Weighted 
• T1 & T2 MRI Scans - axial sagittal coronal 
• STIR sequences - Fat suppressed 
• Post contrast imaging (when necessary). 
• Diffusion MR imaging (DWI). 
• Cerebral Angiography Surveillance (when there are concerns about blood vessels). 

Reasons for Taking the Neck MRI Scan

• Evaluation of Tumours to diagnose or monitor their progress. 
• Unexplained persistent neck swelling. 
• Infection, trauma and inflammation evaluation. 
• Stage Cancer and assess the status of the lymph node. 
• Check malformations of vascular structure and developmental lesions. 

When and Who Needs the Neck MRI Scan? 

Indications: 

• Definite neck masses or swelling of unknown origin. 
• Lymphadenopathy which is an enlarged lymph node or group of nodes. 
• Tumours of suspicion thyroid or salivary glands or even throat. 
• Pain or stiffness in neck. 
• Injuries due to trauma. 
• Lesions of blood vessels which may include stenosis. 
• Preoperative or pre-radiotherapy assessment. 

Age Groups: 

• Both adults and children. 
• Anyone presenting with Head & Neck or ENT symptoms. 
• Patients with prior history of malignancy for assessment of metastases or recurrence. 

Benefits of the Neck MRI Scan

• No exposure to radiation 
• Excellent contrast resolution for soft tissue imaging 
• Non-invasive, precise imaging method 
• Does not always require contrast 

Conditions Diagnosed by Neck MRI Test

• Thyroid cancer and nodules 
• Salivary gland tumours or stones 
• Lymphadenopathy and lymphoma 
• Abscess of the neck and cellulitis 
• Neurovascular compression and tumours 
• Carotid dissection vascular anomalies 

Preparation For Neck MRI Test

• Does not require preparation except for food if contrast is used 
• No metallic cosmetics 
• May need renal function check with contrast 
• Comfortable attire (hospital gown available) 

Pre-requisites of Neck MRI Scan 

• Symptomatic clinical imaging history referral 
• Renal function test (if contrast is planned) 
• Check for metallic implants and pacemakers 

Best Time to Take Neck MRI Scan 

• Symptoms like swelling, pain, or noticeable masses are persistent 
• Following up on treatment or during cancer staging 
• Pre-operative scans for ENT or neck surgery 

Eligibility 

• Applicable for most individuals safely 
• Patients with metal implants and pacemakers need to use caution 
• Usually safe for pregnant women (non-contrast MRI) 

Procedure | Neck MRI Process 

• The patient lies down on the MRI table and their head is positioned with a chin strap for immobilization. 
• Image quality is enhanced by neck coils 
• Scan time is usually between 30 to 40 minutes 
• May administer contrast during the procedure if necessary. 
• The images are looked at by a radiologist who provides reports to the physician that referred the patient for the MRI. 

Caution 

• Disclose any history of pregnancy, allergies, or implants 
• Try to remain as motionless as possible for the scan 
• Any history of contrast allergies or renal problems should be reported in advance