What Is It?
A cervical MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses energy from strong magnets to produce photos of the part of the spine that goes through the neck area (cervical spinal column). This procedure also known as MRI – cervical spine; MRI – neck.
MRI does not use radiation (x-rays).
Purpose and Risks of Cervical Spine MRI Scan
Single MRI images are called pieces. The images can be saved on a computer system or printed on movie. One exam produces lots of images.
How the Test is Performed
You will use a health center dress or clothes without metal zippers or snaps (such as sweatpants and a t-shirt). Make sure you take off your watch, precious jewelry and wallet. Some types of metal can cause blurry images.
You will lie on a narrow table that slides into a tunnel-shaped scanner.
Some examinations use a special dye (contrast). The majority of the time, you will get the dye through a vein in your arm or hand before the test. The dye can likewise be offered through an injection. The color helps the radiologist see certain areas more plainly.
During the MRI, the individual who operates the device will see you from another space. The test usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes, however might take longer.
How to Prepare for the Test
You might be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4 to 6 hours prior to the scan.
Inform your healthcare supplier if you are afraid of closed spaces (have claustrophobia). You may be given a medication to help you feel sleepy and less distressed. Your provider might suggest an “open” MRI, in which the device is not as near the body.
Before the test, tell your health care provider if you have:
- Brain aneurysm clips
- Particular types of artificial heart valves
- Heart defibrillator or pacemaker
- Inner ear (cochlear) implants
- Kidney disease or dialysis (you might not have the ability to receive contrast).
- Just recently placed synthetic joints.
- Certain types of vascular stents.
- Dealt with sheet metal in the past (you might require tests to look for metal pieces in your eyes).
Due to the fact that the MRI contains strong magnets, metal items are not permitted into the space with the MRI scanner:
- Pens, pocketknives, and eyeglasses may fly across the room.
- Products such as fashion jewelry, watches, charge card, and hearing aids can be harmed.
- Pins, barrettes, metal zippers, and similar metal items can distort the images.
- Detachable dental work should be secured just before the scan.
How the Test will Feel
An MRI examination causes no pain. You will have to lie still. Excessive motion can blur MRI images and cause mistakes.
The table may be difficult or cold, but you can request for a blanket or pillow. The device makes loud thumping and humming sounds when switched on. You can wear ear plugs to assist shut out the sound.
An intercom in the room permits you to speak to somebody at any time. Some MRIs have televisions and unique earphones to assist the time pass.
There is no recovery time, unless you were given a medication to unwind. After an MRI scan, you can return to your normal diet, activity, and medications.
Why the Test is Performed
The most typical reasons for this test are:.
Severe neck or arm pain that does not improve after treatment.
Neck pain together with leg weakness, numbness, or other symptoms.
A cervical MRI scan may also be done for:
- Abnormality of the spinal column.
- Infection that involves your spine.
- Injury or trauma to the spine.
- Several sclerosis.
- Severe scoliosis.
- Tumor or cancer in the spine.
- Arthritis in the spine.
MRI works much better than CT scan in detecting these problems most of the time.
A cervical MRI might likewise be done before spine surgery.
Normal Results of Cervical Spine MRI
A normal result means the part of the spine that runs through your neck and neighboring nerves appears normal.
What Abnormal Results of Cervical Spine MRI Mean
The most typical factors for an unusual result are:
- Herniated or “slipped” disc (cervical radiculopathy).
- Narrowing of the cervical spinal column (back stenosis).
- Unusual wear of the bones and cartilage in the neck (cervical spondylosis).
Abnormal outcomes might likewise be due to:
- Bone infection (osteomyelitis).
- Disk inflammation (diskitis).
- Infection of the spinal column.
- Numerous sclerosis.
- Spine injury or compression.
- Spinal fracture.
- Back tumor.
Talk with your provider about your concerns and issues.
Risks Related to Cervical Spine MRI
MRI contains no radiation. There have actually been no documented side effects from the magnetic fields and radio waves.
The most common kind of contrast (color) used is gadolinium. It is really safe. Allergic reactions to the compound are unusual. Nevertheless, gadolinium can be hazardous to people with kidney problems that require dialysis. If you have kidney problems, please tell your company before the test.
The strong magnetic fields produced during an MRI can cause heart pacemakers and other implants to not work too. It can also cause a piece of metal inside your body to move or move. For safety factors, please do not bring anything which contains metal into the scanner space.
