Magnetic Resonance of Spine

Magnetic resonance imaging (MR) is an imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to produce images of organs, tissues and structures within the body. Magnetic resonance imaging provides a different kind of information compared to x-ray, ultrasound or scan (CT). Magnetic resonance imaging can detect problems that cannot be seen by other techniques. Images obtained by this method can be stored on a computer if needed. These images can also be used in the operating room during surgery. Contrasting may be required for certain shots to make the image clearer. The procedure is painless and takes about an hour.

WHY APPLICATION / INDICATIONS apply

Spinal examination is performed by segments (cervical, thoracic-thoracic, and lumbosacral spine segments). With the use of special coils, it is possible to get a quality representation of all disco-vertebral pathology, with a high-quality and clear representation of the spinal canal and spinal cord. High-resolution sequences for displaying and detecting subtle damage to the spinal cord and nerve roots are a specialty.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

• The magnetic resonance machine looks like a big tube with the ends open. Recording is done by lying on a table that moves toward one opening of the machine. Your healthcare provider will observe you while recording from the next room. During recording, you will be able to speak through the microphone.
• This machine creates a strong magnetic field around you and directs radio waves to your spine. The procedure itself is painless. You will not feel the existence of a magnetic field or radio waves around you.
• During magnetic resonance imaging, the machine itself produces repeated sounds and noise. If you find these sounds uncomfortable, we will try to provide you with music to help you relax. If you are disturbed by the tight space inside the machine and make you nervous, you should talk to your doctor before the procedure. If necessary, in consultation with your doctor, you may take a tranquilizer.
• Sometimes it is necessary to use a contrast agent (gadolinium), which is usually injected intravenously. The contrast medium makes it easier to see certain details. The contrast agent used during magnetic resonance imaging rarely causes allergic reactions compared to the contrast agent used during scanning (CT) imaging.
• During magnetic resonance imaging, you will need to stay still most of the time to keep the images clear.

POTENTIAL RISKS

• The presence of metal in the body may be harmful or may endanger your safety during magnetic resonance imaging. Before recording, you must notify medical personnel if you have: a metal joint prosthesis, artificial heart valve, defibrillator (implantable heart defibrillator), pacemaker, metal clips, cochlear implant, bullet, shrapnel or other metal object.
• Before magnetic resonance imaging, you should notify medical personnel if you are pregnant. The effect of magnetic resonance imaging on the fetus has not been sufficiently studied, but your doctor may recommend another instead of this procedure.
• If you have liver or kidney problems, you should tell your healthcare professional. Impairment of the function of these organs may be a limiting factor for the use of a contrast agent.

PREPARATION

• Before magnetic resonance imaging, you can eat normally and take the medicines you are taking as part of regular therapy. You may need to remove jewelry, glasses, a watch, hearing aids or a wig.

AFTER RECORDING

• If you have not been sedated during recording, you can immediately return to your normal daily activities.