The range of time varies according to the number of sequences required and whether intravenous contrast is needed. Some scenarios will take longer to complete, especially if more than one sequence is requested or if the sequences are extensive.
Whole Spine MRI And An Anatomy Of The Spine?
Many MRI procedures are focused on a specific region of the spine; usually cervical which is the portion of the spine that is located at the back of your neck and upper back. MRI of the cervical spine, lumbar and sacral and coccyx, which is the lower back area of the spine, and MRI of the thoracic or mid spine region, is not as common.
It is worth mentioning that there are a number of underlying reasons your physician may ask you to have an MRI. In general, they may simply want to exclude a condition associated with your symptoms and/or as a routine spine health assessment, especially where chronic and progressive diseases are concerned.
How Long Does A Full Spine MRI Take?
The duration of a full spine MRI can vary widely and is typically between 45 to 90 minutes; Into that time you will be in the MRI machine – and keep in mind this duration does not Include check in time, and post procedure steps. There are many aspects that come into Play that will affect this time frame, including the protocols that will be followed, whether Contrast material is needed, the technology being used, and whether additional scans are needed for clarity.
Factors Influencing The Scan Time
Area Imaged: Obtaining images of the entire spine is more complex and time consuming than obtaining images of just one spinal segment as the sequences required for all three sections of the spine (cervical, thoracic, lumbar) may use multiple imaging sequences to produce images from head to pelvis.
Contrast Agent: In some cases a contrast dye is injected to enhance certain tissue or abnormalities. This would mean additional preparation time and imaging time which may add 15-30 minutes to the scan.
Whole Spine MRI: What To Expect And How Much?
It is definitely worth your while to better understand what you should anticipate if you are going to have a whole spine screening MRI. The fact that you can prepare for the procedure puts you in a good position to win part of the battle you are fighting to sustain, retain, or regain health and wellness.
Conclusion
A full spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) typically takes around 45 to 90 minutes depending on the amount of imaging, contrast requirement and last but certainly not least, whether or not you can remain still. Although the process will seem like a long time, it is a non-invasive, painless procedure that is important for accurately identifying spinal problems and effectively planning treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is spine MRI painful?
No, a spine MRI is usually painless, per medical resources. The spine MRI involves the use of magnets as well as radio waves to produce diagnostic images of your spine; it does not include radiation and there will be no incision made.
Q. Does full spine MRI include the neck?
MRI Whole Spine Screening: Purpose, Results & Cost Yes, a full spine MRI includes the neck, or cervical spine.
Q. What organs does a full spine MRI show?
While the MRI of the full spine focuses on the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, and the soft tissues surrounding the spine (located in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions), an incidental finding of portions of the kidneys, liver, spleen and uterus may be demonstrated in a lumbar spine MRI.
Q. What organs does a full spine MRI show?
While this is not the primary reason or initial goal of the lumbar spine MRI, we typically also see parts of the kidneys, liver, spleen, and uterus on a lumbar spine MRI.
Q. What is the full form of MRI?
The full form of MRI is Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
