MRI WHOLE SPINE

MRI Whole Spine Overview

Introduction 

An MRI whole spine involves taking MRI images of the entire spine comprising of the neck region (cervical), middle region (thoracic) and lower back region (lumbar). Is a radiological procedure that is done to assist in the diagnosis of conditions affecting the spine, as well as other conditions affecting the nerves. It is done using powerful magnets, ranging from 1.5T to 3.0T, and radio waves to diagnose lesions in the nervous tissues alongside administering nerve conduction tests. 

What is MRI Whole Spine? 

MRI Whole Spine consists of imaging the entire spinal column as one unit. This form of imaging provides cross-sections of the body in additional to viewing it in 3D. MRI imaging does not expose the subject to ionizing radiation. MRI whole spine is particularly valuable when assessing soft tissues like the spinal nerves, intervertebral discs, and spinal cord as CTs and X-rays do not depict them clearly.

Types of MRI Whole Spine 

• Typical MRI: Routine imaging of the spine done at high resolution 
• Enhanced-Contrast MRI: Detecting tumours as well as infections using gadolinium contrasted base 
• Functional MRI: Evaluation of activity in the spinal cord during stimulation is termed as fMRI 

List Of Parameters Considered During MRI Whole Spine

• Vertebral disk regions alignment 
• Health and integrity of intervertebral disc 
• Changes in the spinal cord structure and signals 
• Tumours, infections, or inflammatory disorders 
• Nerve root and neural foramen patency 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Whole Spine

• Occurrence of chronic pain in the spine’s region 
• Disc degeneration or herniation 
• Myelopathy due to spinal cord compressing 
• Evaluation after surgical procedure 
• Inflammation or autoimmune related disorders of the spine 

When and Who Needs an MRI Whole Spine? 

Indications: 

• Chronic or mysterious back discomfort 
• Weakness, numbness, or paralysis that affects mobility 
• Possible spinal cord damage or compression injuries 
• Multiple sclerosis or other diseases that demyelinate cells 
• Tumour screening or evaluating metastasis 

Patient Demographics: 

• Elderly relapsing patients with degenerative spinal changes 
• Patients with a history of spinal tumours, infections, or congenital conditions 
• Athletes or active persons with previous spinal injuries 
• Patients undergoing pre-operative or post-operative evaluation of the spine 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Non-invasive with no exposure to ionizing radiation 
• Provides greater detail of soft tissue structures of the spine 
• Will provide earlier identification of disorders of the spine 
• Prerequisite for surgical planning and evaluation post-surgery 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Whole Spine

• Degenerative disc disease 
• Spinal canal narrowing 
• Tumours, or cysts of the spinal cord 
• Infections such as osteomyelitis, discitis 
• Other neurological disorders including multiple sclerosis 

Preparing for MRI Whole Spine

• Remove all metal jewellery and electronic accessories 
• Dress in loose and comfortable garments 
• Informing technician about any implants or pregnancy is important 
• For some, fasting is necessary if a contrast is utilized 

Pre-requisites 

• Absence of contrast allergy if a contrast enhanced MRI is necessary 
• Pre-treatment for anxiety or with need of claustrophobia medication 

Best Time to Take the MRI Whole Spine 

• When suggested by the attending physician 
• Booked ahead of time for optimal organization 

Eligibility 

• Appropriate for most patients. Patients with non-MRI safe implants or pacemakers are exceptions. 

Procedure for MRI Whole Spine 

• The individual rests in a supine position on the MRI table. 
• For better imaging, a special coil may be placed around the spinal region.  
• Images are produced by the scanner retrieving data using magnetic fields and radio waves. 
• The procedure takes about 45-90 minutes.  
• If necessary, contrast dye can be utilized to improve imaging. 

Caution Prior to Taking the Scan 

• Notify the radiologist if pregnant, has a kidney disease, or has any metal implants.  
• You are advised to stay still during the scan to maximize image quality.