MRI SPINE SCREENING WITHOUT CONTRAST

MRI Spine Screening without Contrast Overview

MRI Spine Screening without contrast is a diagnostic procedure done without any incision and utilizes a strong magnetic field as well as radio waves to obtain detailed pictures of the spine. This procedure is usually done to examine the structures of the spine and any abnormalities of the spinal cord, spinal nerves, discs, and other tissues which may be present. 

What is MRI Spine Screening without Contrast? 

MRI Spine Screening without contrast uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the spine. The technology works by: 

• Hydrogen nuclei aligning in the presence of the magnetic field 
• Radio waves stimulating aligned hydrogen nuclei 
• Atomic fragments emitting signals while adjusting to the state of order 
• Detected signals are used to construct detailed images of the spine by specialized software. 

Images of the spine are produced through the advanced limb of medicine known as imaging without exposure to radiation and usage of contrast dyes. 

Types of MRI Spine Screening without Contrast 

These methods can range to 3 types of MRI of the spine without contrast. 

• 1.5T MRI – is an average MRI scanner of 1.5 Tesla magnet. 
• 3T MRI – is a new 3 Tesla MRI magnet scanner. It has improved image quality. 
• Open MRI – Good for people who suffer from claustrophobia and have other mobility complexities. This is an open-bore MRI. 

List of Parameters Considered During the MRI Spine Screening without Contrast

These parameters are investigated in this method. 

• Anatomy of the spinal cord and nerve roots 
• Presence of herniated discs, spondylosis, or spinal stenosis 
• Detection of spinal cysts or tumours 
• Soft tissue and bone marrow pathology 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Spine Screening without Contrast

MRI is performed for a wide variety of conditions including: 

• Back pain 
• Tightness or pain in the neck 
• Tingling, numbness, or weakening in the arms/legs 
• Inability to control bowels or bladder 
• Trauma or injury to spine that is recent 
• Certain diagnosed spinal pathologies, for example, osteoporosis or ankylosing spondylitis. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

The advantages of adding an MRI to those of the plain x-ray include: 

• No radiation exposure for spinal imaging in MRI 
• Assists in the diagnosis of several spinal disorders and diseases. 
• The procedure does not cause pain, and it is non-invasive. 
• The examination enables information needed for management of the patient, whether it be surgery, medication, or physical therapy. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Spine Screening without Contrast

These conditions are among the ones which are diagnosed by the test: 

• Herniation of Intervertebral Discs 
• Spinal Spondylosis 
• Spinal Stenosis 
• Osteoporosis of the vertebra 
• Cysts or Tumours of the Spine 
• Ankylosing Spondylitis 

Preparing for Breast Biopsy Scan

Before the examination, ensure that you: 

• Do not have any clothes with metallic buttons or belts, and wear loose and comfortable clothes. 
• Remove all rings or other jewellery 
• Avoid eating or drinking for at least 2 hours prior the test 
• Tell the doctor or technician about any implants or other medical issues you may have 

Pre-requisites: 

In contrast to other MRI tests, the MRI Spine Screening without contrast requires little to no preparation. However, to complete the procedure, you must: 

• Note any metal joints, pacemakers or implants. 
• Fill out the medical questionnaire. 
• Tell the doctor or technician about any medications or supplements you may be taking. 

Best Time to Take the Test: The test can be performed at any time. However, it is best to do so when the patient is most calm and comfortable. 

Eligibility: A large portion of the population can get an MRI Spine Screening without contrast. The following groups are exceptions: 

• Individuals with certain metal implants or pacemakers. 
• Pregnant women (please discuss with your physician first). 
• Individuals with very severe claustrophobia (an open MRI might suffice). 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Spine Screening without Contrast 

The exam can take between thirty to sixty minutes and includes the following phases: 

1. Preparation: You shall be required to take off your clothes, metal objects and put on a gown. 
2. Positioning: You shall lie down on the MRI table and get positioned comfortably. 
3. Scanning: The process will entail both the scanning of your spine and imaging. This will be captured in photographs. 
4. Relaxation: You could be instructed to stay still and calm throughout the scanning phase. 

Cautions Before Taking this Test 

• Share any health issues with the doctor or technician operating the scan. 
• Refrain from eating or drinking anything at least two hours leading up to the test. 
• Take out any kind of metal objects, or jewellery of any sort.