How is magnetic resonance imaging of neck vessels performed?

Headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, insomnia, memory impairment, unsteadiness when walking are symptoms that in most cases are associated with pathological changes in the substance and blood vessels of the brain.

Often this is precisely the reason for patient complaints. However, there are cases when, when examining intracranial vessels and brain matter, no pathology is detected.

 The reason for such symptoms here should be sought in the condition of the extracranial vessels, i.e. vessels of the neck.

• The method of choice for identifying pathological changes in extracranial arteries is MR angiography of neck vessels.
• Let's consider several examples of pathology of the arteries in this area, detected by MR angiography:
• Quite often in practice, among patients with the above-described complaints, hypoplasia of the extracranial arteries, in most cases of the vertebral arteries, is revealed to varying degrees of severity.

Along with the isolated variant of arterial hypoplasia, cases of combination of this pathology with other vascular changes, such as pathological tortuosity or local disturbance of blood flow, are more common.

In addition, isolated variants of various shapes and degrees of tortuosity of extracranial arteries are very often encountered in practice.

Severe clinical manifestations, severe disturbances in the patient’s general condition, including those of an urgent nature, stroke, occur with such pathologies as stenosis and occlusion of the main arteries.

A fairly common disease that affects the vascular wall of the arteries of the human body, including the arteries of the neck, is atherosclerosis.

This pathology leads to a narrowing of the lumen of the affected vessels and, accordingly, a significant decrease in blood supply to the tissues.

The most common areas of atherosclerotic damage are the branching sites of blood vessels, in particular the division of the common carotid artery into the external and internal carotid arteries.

Source: https://www.mrtexpert.ru/articles/209

MRI of the cervical spine and neck vessels - appointment and examination

Every person during his life is faced with diseases of varying degrees of severity, regardless of it, it is important to approach the process of treating these ailments with great responsibility. When the first signs of illness appear, contact a specialist who, in your opinion, treats diseases of this kind (this can be determined by the symptoms). You also need to pay attention to diagnostic procedures that help simplify and make the diagnosis process more accurate, as well as significantly speed it up. Let's look at a diagnostic method such as MRI of the cervical spine and neck vessels, because it can help in many situations.

Why might such research be needed?

Magnetic resonance imaging of something is an excellent modern diagnostic method that is not based on the use of x-rays. The essence of the procedure is that it is completely safe if you carefully study all contraindications and refuse to perform it if it falls under this list.

Problems in the vertebrae or intervertebral discs of the cervical spine quite often occur due to vascular diseases, and MRI can cope with such diagnostics much better than the same computed tomography or simple x-ray.

Here are the main ailments that can be identified if you use the magnetic resonance method:

• hernias, which tend to appear in the area between the cervical vertebrae;
• any abnormal processes, in this situation they appear due to infection;
• a tumor developing in the vessels or even in the spinal cord itself;
• osteochondrosis affecting the cervical area;
• spinal canal stenosis;
• pathological processes associated with blood vessels, for example, atherosclerosis or the formation of blood clots;
• injuries of various types (MRI of the vessels of the cervical spine will allow you to determine with maximum accuracy the location of the area affected by injury, and with the help of such lists you can identify the expected consequences and draw a conclusion about the most preferable therapy);
• developmental abnormalities;
• disorders related to the functions of an organ such as the thyroid gland;
• various diseases associated with the lymph nodes and larynx.

Note! Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine is almost always combined with a study of blood vessels, and sometimes even this can be associated with vessels located in the brain. The fact is that many doctors recommend resorting to a comprehensive study, because all vascular diseases are interconnected, which is especially important in such situations!

Using an MRI of the neck, you can see the vertebrae and intervertebral discs.

Indications for use

Let's look at the main indications for the procedure, which doctors in Arzamas and many other medical centers focus on. Let us immediately note that there are a huge number of indications for the procedure, and sometimes the study is generally used simply for the purpose of preparing for surgery. Here is a list of the most significant of them:

1. The procedure should definitely be performed on a person who experiences regular and quite severe dizziness or even fainting.
2. A person who sometimes experiences some discomfort in the neck area, which can be characterized as “tightness,” should not neglect the examination.
3. You should be concerned if you have pain in the hair area, namely at the roots of the hair.
4. The Arzamas clinic also considers numbness of the limbs or even the neck itself a significant reason for conducting research (but in this case, you need to focus on the area where this occurs, because sometimes it will be much more useful to conduct an MRI of the vessels of the legs or arms).
5. Constant and causeless “goosebumps” that appear on the skin and bother the patient.
6. Circulatory failure of a vertebrobasilar nature.
7. Suspicions associated with the development of thrombosis affecting the vessels located in the cervical spine.
8. Relatively severe pain, localized in a given area, at the same time radiating to the head, limbs or, for example, the chest.
9. Injuries of various types associated with the spinal cord.
10. Also, such examinations are often prescribed as a component of complex therapy for people who have experienced serious changes in blood pressure.
11. There are certain risks associated with the development of tumors in the brain, especially when it comes to malignant tumors.
12. Lesions associated with the spine and having an infectious nature (for example, tuberculosis, as well as osteomyelitis and toxoplasmosis).
13. You should not refuse magnetic resonance imaging of this kind even if you are faced with autoimmune diseases, this may include spondylitis or ankylosing spondylitis.
14. Determination of the condition of abscesses of the cervical spine that were previously diagnosed.
15. Chronic arthrosis or even rheumatism.

Note! There are often situations when specialists, even with all these indications, prescribe some other diagnostic procedure or even make a diagnosis in some other way.

This does not mean that they are doing something wrong, because doctors always rely on a large amount of information, which includes the results of the examination, information obtained after tests, and information from previously conducted diagnostic studies.

Also, sometimes magnetic resonance imaging can help in the absence of these signs, so in no case should you argue with a specialist and his decision!



Contraindications

You should pay attention to the most important contraindications, because, as mentioned earlier, neglecting them leads to dire consequences. There are known situations where people did not pay attention to the contraindications associated with pacemakers and died in the process, so carefully read the following list:

1. First trimester of pregnancy (please note that this contraindication is not strict, that is, on the initiative of a specialist, in some situations it can be neglected, because a negative effect on the fetus has not been proven, but it is better to refrain from the study if your life).
2. The presence of clips installed on vessels located in the brain (during the study, due to the magnetic field, they can be damaged, and this leads to serious negative consequences).
3. The presence of any metal elements in the style or on it. If jewelry and other similar metal products can be easily removed, then the presence of implants made from this material is a categorical contraindication to magnetic resonance imaging of any kind. It's all about the same magnetic field, which affects even tiny particles of metal. This will not only distort the results and quality of the images, but can also seriously harm the patient’s health.
4. Having tattoos containing metal. Many people forget that the paint used to make tattoos also often contains metal. Be sure to check this out if you have similar patterns on your skin.
5. The presence of non-removable electronic devices. During the procedure, such equipment will most likely fail, and if it is a neurostimulator or, for example, a pacemaker, the consequences can be dire.
6. Arrhythmia or heart failure.

The value of MRI is invaluable in the treatment and diagnosis of cancer.

Preparing for the examination

Each diagnostic method requires special preparation, but, fortunately, nothing special needs to be done before magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine. You will not need to follow special diets or adhere to courses of taking any medications for a certain period of time before the procedure.

It is important to pay special attention to moral preparation; prepare yourself for the fact that you will have to be in a closed MRI machine for quite a long time.

You should also discuss with your doctors in advance all chronic diseases that worry you, and if the procedure involves the introduction of a contrast agent, then you must definitely exclude the risks associated with an allergic reaction to it (certain tests are taken for this).

MRIs are noisy, so some clinics offer headphones or earplugs.

Carrying out the procedure

Magnetic resonance imaging of the neck has almost the same procedure as the study of other parts of the body using this method.

Experts note that during the process the patient will not feel pain or even any discomfort, he may feel warm, and the only discomfort may be associated with the contrast agent, but you will consult your doctor individually about this.

Before you enter the room where the procedure is being performed, you must remove absolutely all jewelry, as well as other metal and electronic items.

This way, you can avoid any movements or other movements that could significantly affect the quality of the final images.

Source: https://tomografa.net/mrt/pozvonochnik-i-sustavy/sosudy-shei-i-sheynyy-otdel.html

MRI of the cervical spine and neck vessels: indications for examination and results

MRI is magnetic resonance imaging, a modern way of diagnosing diseases, which makes it possible to see internal organs and structures in cross-section. The procedure is used for various disorders and pathologies when the disease is difficult to diagnose. In this article we will look at what an MRI of the cervical spine and neck vessels shows.

The basis of the method is a constant magnetic field, as well as rapidly changing radio frequency energy. The study uses a special type of equipment, consisting of a tomograph scanner and a powerful computer to create clear, bright images.

Indications for MRI of the neck

Studying the cervical region using a magnetic tomograph is an informative, painless and safe method. Examination of the neck using the resonant method is an independent examination, but in case of injuries with fractures of the cervical vertebrae, the procedure acts as an addition to other studies; in such pathologies, more accurate information is obtained on Rg images.

Indications for:

• Congestion, stiffness, discomfort in the cervical region;
• Neck injuries with suspected displacement of cervical structures;
• Frequent loss of consciousness, visual disturbances, other signs of pathology of cerebral circulation;
• Age-related deformation of the vertebrae, identifying the degree of osteochondrosis to determine the treatment course;
• Previously diagnosed vertebral abnormalities, pathology of nerve roots, discs, cervical muscles to clarify the diagnosis or monitor treatment;
• Before a neurosurgical operation or as prescribed by an orthopedist.

Mandatory conditions for MRI are suspicion of pathological processes in the cervical region, dystrophic changes, MRI is also done for osteomyelitis, spondylitis, neoplasms, bone tuberculosis, narrowing of the spinal canal, and vascular abnormalities.

What does MRI of the cervical spine and neck vessels show?

The tomograph scanner highlights diseases of the cervical vertebrae, discs, blood vessels and surrounding tissues. Some pathologies of this department in the early stages do not bother a person and do not manifest themselves in any way. Because of this, they are not detected for a long time, which leads to the progression of the disease and negatively affects health.

Many problems can be easily treated if detected early, so early detection of diseases using methods such as MRI is valuable for diagnosis.

The MRI machine shows:

• Vertebral anomalies, disc displacement;
• Narrowing (stenosis) of the cervical spinal canal;
• Intervertebral disc herniation;
• Consequences of injury, such as dislocations, fractures;
• Age-related osteochondrosis, spondylosis with deformation and proliferation of bone tissue;
• Tumors of bone structures and soft tissues of the neck, metastases in them;
• Vascular pathologies;
• Changes in the vertebral joints;
• Condition of nerve structures, pinched nerves;
• Congenital and acquired anomalies of the cervical spine;
• Spinal pathologies such as arachnoiditis, myelopathy, spinal cord compression, etc.

The tomograph allows you to make the required number of sections of all problem areas of the cervical region. The doctor receives an image in three projections located perpendicular to each other. With this image, all the details about the state of the internal space of the neck become obvious.

Procedure with contrast

To get the most accurate results, the doctor prescribes an MRI scan with a contrast agent. This method is most often used for vascular pathologies in the cervical region or when a tumor is suspected.

For contrast, gadolinium salts are used; they are highly soluble in water and have low toxicity compared to other substances. But they still have toxicity, which is why complex agents are used for contrast, which contain not salts, but ions of the substance.

Gadolinium is a silver-colored metal with increased viscosity and softness. It has seven unpaired electrons, which makes it possible to transmit the signal during the procedure most quickly.

Gadolinium contrasts for magnetic resonance therapy differ from contrasts for radiography. They color and affect only the organs and tissues they study. The result is achieved indirectly and nonspecifically.

There are many complex preparations with gadolinium for staining. The following are approved for use in Russia:

• Magnevist;
• Gadovist;
• Dotarem;
• Omniscan;
• Primovist.

Contrast examinations are done in two ways. In the first, the entire substance is injected at once through a vein.

The second case also involves an intravenous route of administration, but by drip, in small doses. During the study, the IV is turned on and off as needed.

This option is called dynamic scanning, which displays processes currently occurring.

Contrast is injected into a vein immediately before the MRI procedure or through the spinal canal in the lumbar region.

The contrast method is used:

• To study the condition of the cervical vessels, their patency;
• To assess the speed of blood circulation;
• To identify tumor formations, to determine their nature, the stage of development of the disease;
• To determine the location of the tumor, cystic cavities.

An allergic reaction to contrast material occurs in rare cases, but it does happen sometimes. If the patient has a tendency to allergies to medications, he should inform the doctor about this.

Contraindications for MRI

Due to the fact that the scanner operates using a magnetic field, the procedure is prohibited for those patients who have mechanisms and devices built into the body: insulin pumps, metal clamps on blood vessels, braces, pacemakers, defibrillators, hearing aids and other devices containing metal in the design.

Other prohibitions for MRI:

• Claustrophobia or other illness that prevents a person from lying motionless;
• Mental disorders;
• Pregnancy to exclude effects on the fetus;
• Lactation period, for nursing mothers there are other diagnostic methods;
• Severe renal failure;
• The patient's weight is more than 130 kg.

About 5 years ago, metal-ceramics and metal-plastic in fixed dentures were a contraindication for the MRI procedure. Now these prohibitions have been lifted due to the fact that crowns are made of inert alloys.

Such complexes do not interact with magnetic fields and do not produce resonance, so it has become possible to conduct examinations on a tomograph without the slightest glare. But to do this, you need to know what alloys the prostheses are made of; some give false results on MRI.

In most cases, the patient does not know what metal is used in the design; to determine this, the doctor refers the patient to an orthopedist.

Preparing for an MRI

No special preparation is required to have a magnetic resonance imaging scan of the neck. The doctor pays attention only to the standard requirements - this is the absence of contraindications.

There is no need to limit food intake or stop taking any medications.

If the study is carried out with contrast, and the patient suffers from frequent allergic reactions, you need to warn the doctor about this.

Before the office, you should remove watches, gold and plastic jewelry, and remove any metal objects, as when heated they heat up and distort the results of the procedure.

MRI procedure

The manipulations performed are completely safe, the procedure is allowed even for small children. The only requirement is that the child be completely still during the scan, otherwise the result will be distorted. During the examination, the patient does not feel anything, there is no pain or discomfort. There are no side effects or complications after tomography.

• The patient undresses down to his underwear; sometimes the doctor may ask to wear disposable medical clothing;
• The patient lies down on the tomograph table, and contrast is injected at this time, if necessary;
• The head is fixed with bolsters, and the limbs with belts. This measure is necessary for scanning accuracy; the results directly depend on the patient’s movement. Even an accidental movement distorts the method;
• The tomograph table slides into the device tunnel;
• A special ring rotates around the patient and scans the desired area.

The operation of the tomograph causes slight noise; the patient hears only this sound and does not experience any other sensations. From the next room, the doctor observes the procedure, the images are displayed on the monitor screen. Upon completion of the scan, the patient stands up calmly and returns to his normal daily routine.

Possible MRI results

An MRI examination visualizes pathologies of the cervical spine on the tomograph screen. The doctor examines the received images; on them he can see:

• Fractures of arches, vertebral bodies, fault line, displacement of fragments, deformation of vertebrae;
• An altered appearance of the bone structure of the vertebrae in osteoporosis, since with this disease the strength of bone tissue decreases;
• Volumetric neoplasm and metastasis;
• Herniation of discs between the vertebrae, deformation of the edges, destruction of the membrane, displacement, soldering, adhesion, compression of the spinal nerve;
• Light or dark spots in multiple sclerosis, depending on the shooting mode;
• Degenerative vertebral pathologies and formations, protruding parts, spines, roughness, pinched nerves.

If an irreversible process of destruction and softening of the spinal cord occurs - myelomalacia, the images show deformation of the walls of the spinal canal, with darkened areas with blurred boundaries, which indicates tissue changes.

Source: https://vseanalizy.com/mrt/shei.html

MRI of brain and neck vessels

MRI of brain vessels is performed to identify or prevent serious pathological processes. This is the only reliable examination that identifies complex soft tissue diseases.

Unlike magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound is less informative, and computer examination (CT) is aimed at identifying tumor formations and changes in bone structure. In addition, computer diagnostics are carried out through the use of X-rays, which does not allow the patient to undergo examination more often than established norms.

In addition to diagnostic accuracy, MRI has a number of prerogative aspects:

• harmlessness to the patient's health;
• lack of contact with medical instruments (non-invasive);
• ease of the procedure for the patient;
• a minimum number of prohibitions on conducting a survey;
• the ability to establish the presence of abnormal processes and diseases at the initial stage of their development;
• unlimited frequency and frequency of tomography.

The study of cerebral vessels using an MRI scanner is most often performed in conjunction with MRI of the neck vessels.

The combination of procedures is due to the fact that the supply of blood to the cerebral vessels largely depends on the normal blood flow in the cervical arteries.

Impaired blood circulation due to trauma or injury to the cervical spine can lead to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain, which can be fatal.

Conducting a survey

MRI of the vessels of the head and neck is performed using magnetic waves that do not pose a health hazard.

Electromagnetic pulses resonating in response to the wave influence are reconstructed into a three-dimensional image on a computer.

Layer-by-layer images, about one millimeter thick, allow a medical specialist to make a detailed analysis of the condition of the vascular system of the neck and brain vessels.

MR imaging may be accompanied by an intravenous injection of contrast agent. In this case, an MRI will clearly show the slightest pathologies and changes in the vascular system of the brain using color resolution on a computer image.

Contrast provides the most reliable picture of the movement of blood flow in the cervical regions, which allows one to analyze the degree of oxygen supply to the blood vessels of the brain

There is no special preparation for the standard procedure. When performing MRI of the vessels of the neck and head with contrast, the patient must observe an 8-hour fast before the procedure.

Allergy sufferers should first take an allergy test for iodine-containing substances. The time interval for the procedure depends on the complexity of the pathology being diagnosed and the use of contrast.

It usually ranges from 30 to 90 minutes.

The results, copied onto electronic media, are given to the patient at intervals of one hour after the tomography.

A specific picture of what an MRI of cerebral vessels shows is made up of a detailed scan of the main arteries:

Contrast MRI of the brain

• arterial (Willisian) medulla;
• anterior, middle and posterior cerebral arteries, responsible for feeding the brain;
• vertebrobasilar basin (basilar and vertebral arteries), which supplies the posterior cerebral regions with blood;
• the carotid artery system or carotid system, which supplies blood to the anterior and middle parts of the brain.

Special MR imaging with a vascular program or MR angiography of the cerebral vascular system is aimed at studying small capillaries and analyzing their changes, as well as assessing the lymphatic system of the brain. The MRI technique in vascular mode is used to determine the most complex pathologies of the brain and cervical arteries.

Practice shows that such an examination is most effective in the preoperative period of neurosurgical intervention. MRI of the cervical spine visualizes: paired veins that drain blood from the organs of the head and neck (jugular veins), the carotid artery with branches, and the vertebral arteries.

Diagnosed diseases

MRI of the head and cerebral vessels is effective for diagnosing the following diseases and pathological abnormalities:

• cerebrovascular disorder due to the formation of atherosclerotic growths inside blood vessels (atherosclerosis);
• consequences of traumatic brain injuries;
• neurodegenerative, bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic brain infections;
• acute condition characterized by circulatory disorders (stroke);
• malignant and benign tumors;
• protrusion of the artery wall due to its stretching (vascular aneurysm);
• abnormal structure and communication of cerebral vessels (malformation);
• chronic autoimmune disease – multiple sclerosis;
• carotid artery syndrome (wall dissection);
• structural abnormalities of the carotid artery;
• vascular thrombosis.

Under the influence of a magnetic field, abscesses and cysts formed in the brain are also diagnosed

Purpose of the examination

MRI is indicated if the doctor suspects certain disorders that correspond to the symptoms reported by the patient. The purpose of the procedure is practiced in the following cases: systematic headaches of unknown origin, regular dizziness and fainting, paroxysmal muscle contractions of an uncontrollable nature (convulsions), loss of sensory perception.

The list continues with imbalance of motor functions, reduced functionality of the visual system, impaired speech function, mental pathologies, control of therapy for previously diagnosed diseases. The magnetic resonance imaging method of examination provides results, based on which the doctor can predict the further course of the disease and prescribe the only correct treatment.

Absolute and relative prohibitions

Magnetic resonance imaging has complete (absolute) and relative (relative) prohibitions. Some relative contraindications can be eliminated if the procedure is performed using anesthesia. Most often, anesthesia is used for patients who are unable to maintain a static position during the examination, children and people with mental disabilities.

Relative contraindications are:

• cardiac decompensation;
• initial period of pregnancy (temporary contraindication);
• mental pathology in the form of phobia of closed spaces;
• pain syndrome due to which the patient cannot remain motionless.

The vessels of the brain are not examined using MRI in the following cases: the patient’s body contains medical implants made of metal (vascular clips, prostheses, pacemaker, Ilizarov apparatus, ear implants), the person’s weight exceeds 130 kg, and the waist circumference is 150 cm.

Before the tomography, it is necessary to notify the medical specialist about the presence of pregnancy and renal decompensation.

In these conditions, a procedure with contrast is not performed. Patient reviews of MRI of the arteries of the brain and cervical spine are positive. The only disadvantage noted is the high cost of the examination.

Reviews

Valentina: For a long time they could not determine the cause of my headache. There is no temperature, there is no pressure, you can fly into space, but the pressure is so intense that white light is not pleasant. An MRI was ordered. The procedure couldn’t be simpler. For half an hour I just lay there and looked at the inside of the tomograph. There are absolutely no sensations. As a result, the correct diagnosis was made and therapy was prescribed. I feel good now.

Natasha: I did an MRI scan of the vessels of the head with contrast. The procedure itself did not cause any discomfort. You just lie there for about 30 minutes without moving. The only trouble was nausea from the contrast agent, which lasted for about two hours. In general, the examination is very useful and provides a lot of valuable information that helps doctors objectively assess the patient’s condition.

Ivan: My mother was prescribed an MRI of the vascular system of the head due to frequent dizziness and loss of orientation in space. Despite her anxiety (she is an elderly person and is afraid of everything), my mother tolerated the examination well.

At least they would introduce some benefits.

Source: https://apkhleb.ru/mrt/sosudov-golovnogo-mozga-shei

MRI of the vessels of the brain and neck - what does tomography of the arteries of the head show?

Magnetic resonance imaging is one of the most modern and accurate examinations of soft tissues. MRI of the head and neck is considered a particularly valuable diagnostic, because the brain is not only a complex, unique organ, but also a little-studied one. It is extremely difficult to study and diagnose it.

If vascular pathologies are detected in time, serious illnesses and even death can be prevented. MRI diagnostics were created just for this. Compared to other methods, it has many advantages: for example, x-rays show pathologies only of the skeletal system, and ultrasound is not so sensitive.

What is brain research?

The principle of MRI is based on the effect of a strong electromagnetic field on the tissues of the human body. When a patient is placed in a magnetic field, the cells are activated and resonance occurs. Healthy and pathologically altered tissues react differently. At this time, the device records the readings, and the image shows these differences.

The advantage of the method is that the result is displayed in a three-dimensional image. Thanks to this, the specialist will track pathologies well, draw appropriate conclusions and make the diagnosis as accurately as possible. MRI diagnostics are still indispensable in medicine.

Indications for MRI

Tomography of the vessels of the neck and head is prescribed quite often. This type of research is relatively safe and is suitable for almost everyone, since it takes place without the use of radiation or harmful radioactive substances. There are strict restrictions on MRI only in some cases:

• for those who use pacemakers;
• if there are permanent metal or electronic implants in the body;
• if a hemostatic clip is installed in the vascular system of the brain.

Other contraindications for MRI of vessels and neck, as well as the head, are relative. The procedure is performed when the expected harm from it is less than the risk of an inaccurate diagnosis.

Purpose of tomography of the arteries of the head

MRI of the vessels of the head is prescribed in most cases for neurological disorders. Since the method is quite accurate, it is used if:

• the patient often has a headache and experiences dizziness and fainting;
• blood pressure is unstable, with sudden and large changes;
• blood mixed with pus comes from the nose, and swelling is noticeable on the temples;
• there are signs of blood clots (headaches and dizziness, nausea, dark vision, ringing in the ears, etc.);
• there are diseases and pathologies of the vascular system of the brain (hemorrhages, stroke, atherosclerosis, etc.);
• the patient is diagnosed with hearing loss with speech impairment;
• a tumor of the cerebellopontine ganglion of the brain is being treated;
• the patient has an infectious disease of the nervous system (meningitis, abscess);
• there are anomalies in the structure of the vascular system (aneurysms, thrombosis, etc.);
• a person has a pathology of the cranial condition;
• other diseases (epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic sinusitis, anomalies of the sellar region and pituitary gland, neurodegenerative diseases, etc.).

Indications for MRI of the cervical spine

MRI of neck vessels is prescribed in cases where it is not possible to accurately diagnose the disease using other types of studies. Among them:

• a person received an injury that resulted in damage to the vascular system, but the degree of its danger cannot be determined;
• severe pain in the neck, which often accompanies the development of a tumor;
• heart rhythm is disturbed;
• cervical hernia;
• vascular stenosis;
• memory impairment;
• sleep disorder;
• diseases of the larynx and lymph nodes;
• narrowing of the spinal canal, which contains cerebrospinal fluid;
• osteochondrosis of the cervical spine;
• disorders of the thyroid gland.

Features of the procedure

The study is carried out with or without a contrast agent.

Contrast is used to provide a more visual result - this helps to make a diagnosis in difficult cases (special components increase the contrast of tissues).

The standard procedure does not involve the use of a contrast agent, since it has a number of contraindications, sometimes causes an allergic reaction, and its use is not always necessary.

The MRI machine is a tunnel where a couch with the patient being examined is placed. The patient's head is placed on a stationary bolster, and the limbs are secured with straps.

There are wires on the neck through which data is sent to the monitor. The specialist conducting the research is in the next room. The duration of the procedure is from half an hour to one and a half hours.

This largely depends on whether a contrast agent is used.

What does the study show?

MRI shows all cervical vessels. You will be presented with a clear image:

• carotid artery with branches;
• spinal arteries;
• jugular veins and their branches.

As a result of the study, the device produces a three-dimensional image of the brain and soft tissues, so pathologies that exist in these organs are observed here. Based on the examination, the doctor will make a diagnosis:

• changes in arteries and veins (expansion, narrowing, fusion);
• atherosclerosis (plaques on the walls of blood vessels);
• blockage of blood vessels due to the formation of a blood clot;
• vascular damage due to trauma;
• inflammation;
• malignant tumors in blood vessels or compression of blood vessels by neoplasms that affect neighboring tissues.

If there are any pathological changes in the vascular system of the cervical spine, this will certainly affect the nutrition and functioning of the brain. Their consequences can be different - from migraines to partial loss of hearing or vision and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Interpretation of MRI results and cost

At the end of the study, the patient is given the results in the form of topograms - images that are printed on a special A4 film. 1-2 images fit on one sheet. The number of images depends on the degree of complexity of the study.

MRI of the vessels of the head and neck, as well as other results of any studies, should not be attempted to be deciphered on your own. If you know anatomy well, that's not enough.

It is important to understand the interconnections of organs and systems, understand the accompanying symptoms and take into account many factors that a non-specialist simply will not notice. Only a doctor with good experience and qualifications can do this.

Decoding the results of the study is similar to making a diagnosis, so this should be done by a qualified specialist.

Each area is examined separately - for example, you can do an MRI of the brain with a detailed examination of the pituitary gland or MRI of the paranasal sinuses. The average price is 5,000 rubles per type of examination.

If you order a complete diagnosis of all parts of the brain, the price tag can soar to 100 thousand rubles.

Source: https://vedmed-expert.ru/mrt/golova-i-sheya/mrt-sosudov-shei-i.html

MRI of the neck and MRI of neck vessels – diagnosis of vertebrae and arteries in the cervical spine

MRI of the neck and MRI of neck vessels help in diagnosing many diseases. Most people in modern life are subject to prolonged stress and nervous overload.

This leads to chronic headaches. In addition, vascular pathologies develop, which are accompanied by dizziness and nausea.

It is to identify the causes of such symptoms that magnetic resonance imaging is performed.

Features of the structure of the vessels of the cervical spine

The part of the body that connects the torso to the head is called the neck. This small area contains many important vessels. They do a lot of work - they ensure the movement of blood from the heart to the brain, then back.

These vessels are susceptible to many pathologies. One of the reasons for the development of diseases may be the composition of the fibers of the neck tissue.

In the vertebral arteries, the vessel walls consist predominantly of elastic fibers rather than collagen. Because of this, they thin out faster and become more easily twisted.

If symptoms of lack of oxygen to the brain appear, you should consult a doctor. MRI of the neck arteries or angiography will help identify pathology.

Who needs to be tested?

What an MRI shows cannot be seen in any other examination. That is why it is performed for a variety of indications. For example, to establish the causes of frequent dizziness, migraines, fainting for no apparent reason. An MRI is recommended if you feel discomfort, compression in the neck, when it is difficult to turn your head, and you feel pain and dizziness.

An examination of the vessels of the neck is prescribed if there is numbness in the hands, scalp, cervical spine, or the so-called feeling of “pins and needles” on the body.

You need to be especially careful and urgently undergo an examination of the neck, an MRI of the vessels of the neck in case of severe pain in this area, which radiates to the head, arm, and sternum.

People who experience unpleasant, constant pain in the root zone of hair growth should be checked. For ankylosing spondylitis and chronic arthrosis, spondylitis and infectious spinal injuries (toxoplasmosis), MRI will help determine the extent of the disease.

Indications for diagnostics

A magnetic resonance imaging scan of the neck produces a three-dimensional layered image. You can see the occurring disorders in the lymph nodes, soft tissues, internal organs (esophagus, thyroid gland, larynx, trachea).

An MRI of the neck and blood vessels is indicated if it is necessary to diagnose:

• the appearance of blood clots in the lumen of blood vessels or arteries of the neck;
• abnormal structure of the cervical organs;
• identifying disturbances in blood flow in the arteries, which is associated with the growth of scar tissue;
• cervical hernia;
• formation of a neoplasm;
• narrowing of cervical vessels;
• changes in the structure of bone tissue that develop with osteochondrosis and other pathologies;
• presence of injuries in the cervical spine;
• atherosclerosis, vascular aneurysms;
• inflammatory process of the cervical spine;
• narrowing of the spinal canal containing cerebrospinal fluid.

Often, MRI of the neck vessels is done simultaneously with an examination of the cerebral vessels. Their systems are connected, changes in one affect the second, so a comprehensive diagnosis is recommended. This allows you to obtain complete data on blood circulation and identify the correct cause of the pathology.

To diagnose some diseases, MRI of neck vessels with contrast is used. This method makes it possible to assess the condition of arteries and veins, the functioning of organs, and see places of vascular weave and narrowing. The pictures are more detailed with a clear image of the desired areas.

An examination with contrast is carried out if the formation of a tumor is suspected, to clarify diagnoses that cannot be made by other methods. The substance gadolinium is used as a contrast. It is active in a magnetic field and is well tolerated by patients.

An allergic reaction rarely occurs to it, but contrast studies are not performed for bronchial asthma and hay fever. This diagnostic method is not prescribed for renal failure, because the contrast agent is excreted through the kidneys.

With such an examination, the pathology of the excretory system may worsen.

Magnetic tomography has contraindications. The main thing is the presence of metal in the body. After all, when conducting an examination, a strong magnetic field is used. It is unknown how this will affect the metal.

It can heat up and move, tearing tissue, nearby nerves and blood vessels.

They will not perform an MRI of any part of the body if there is a pacemaker, braces, any inserted needles or plates, vascular clips, an insulin pump, a cochlear implant, an Ilizarov apparatus, or fragments.

For those patients who have such contraindications, computed tomography is offered. This examination does not use a magnetic field, but uses X-rays. The scanning will also be done layer by layer, the doctor will see all the abnormalities. If necessary, a contrast agent can be used.

The doctor leaves the room, but will see the person through a special window. In some clinics, the patient is given a special button. You can press it if you feel unwell. In other clinics, it is enough to say loudly about the unpleasant state of health into the microphone.

In any case, a person does not remain unattended. There is no pain or discomfort during the examination. The only thing that may bother you is the slight noise that the device makes, but it is not constant.

It is recommended to take earplugs with you; some clinics offer them at the beginning of the procedure.

MRI of the neck is a high-tech, comfortable procedure. Especially when compared with some other types of examination. Those who have already undergone tomography speak only positively about the procedure.

The condition of the vessels of the neck and soft tissues of this area is difficult to determine without modern diagnostic methods. But there are the carotid artery, jugular vein, nerve trunks, thyroid gland, lymph nodes. Often the cause of constant headaches, insomnia, dizziness, and decreased performance are disturbances in the functioning of blood vessels in the neck area.

MRI of the neck and MRI of the vessels of the cervical spine will help determine changes in tissues, organs, vessels, nerves, and vertebrae. In one procedure you will be able to view the entire area at once.

Using this diagnostic method, the doctor will be able to identify even infectious diseases, for example, vertebral tuberculosis.

Source: https://metod-diagnostiki.ru/magnitno-rezonansnaya-tomografiya/vidy-procedury/mrt-shei-i-mrt-sosudov-shei/

What does MRI of neck vessels show?

1. Indications for MR angiography
2. What will MRI of blood vessels show?
3. What to choose - CT, MRI or ultrasound
4. Which machine should be used to perform MR angiography?

The vessels of the neck, namely the common carotid, internal, external carotid and vertebral arteries, heading to the brain in the form of the basilar, anterior, posterior and middle cerebral arteries, form the Circle of Willis in it. Thus, any pathology of the carotid and/or vertebral arteries can become a potential threat of impaired blood supply to the brain, including ischemic stroke. Also, the carotid arteries give branches to the sense organs (vision, hearing, smell, taste), so disruption of these functions is also often found in the pathology of these arteries.

Indications for MRA of the neck with contrast

1. The presence of transient ischemic attacks, which are manifested by paresis or decreased sensitivity of half the body, speech disorder, impaired coordination, and vision. Such attacks develop within seconds and minutes. The criterion for transientness is complete regression of symptoms within 24 hours.

   Such attacks are a harbinger of ischemic stroke!

2. Manifestations of discirculatory encephalopathy, namely dizziness with headache, short-term loss of consciousness, tinnitus with hearing loss, double vision or fog in the eyes, decreased vision.

   As a result of constantly reduced blood supply to various parts of the brain, the patient develops neurasthenia and asthenia with subsequent changes in intelligence.

3. Previous stroke (from 2 days after occurrence)
4. Manifestations of vertebral artery syndrome, both in its compression-irritative and reflex-angiospastic variants.

   In the first case, these are headaches and crawling sensations similar to the removal of a helmet, pain in the neck muscles on one or both sides with a clicking or crunching sensation when turning it, visual and/or hearing disturbances on one side.

   In the second case, it is a headache, the harbinger of which is stress, changes in weather, vascular pressure, a feeling of fullness in the head, fainting with sudden movements of the neck, impaired coordination of movements, decreased hearing on one side, a sore or crawling sensation in the throat; with all this, a person develops hypochondriacal moods (especially from the chest area and above), wariness, and worries.

5. The sudden appearance of a dull, pressing, less often shooting, throbbing pain in half the head or neck on one side is a sign that precedes an ischemic stroke during carotid artery dissection (dissection); there may also be short-term loss of vision on one side. When the vertebral artery is dissected, there is pain along the back of the neck and in the back of the head, while poor circulation in the brain almost always occurs at the moment of turning or tilting the head.

What can be seen with MRI angiography of the neck

1. Atherosclerotic plaques, concomitant damage to the vessel intima
2. Blood clots that have entered the vessels of the neck from the heart during arrhythmias
3. Kinks or looping of an artery or vein
4. Vascular aneurysms
5. Chronic occlusion and stenosis of the vessel
6. Vascular malformations
7. External compression of the vessel
8. Hypoplasia (including small vertebral or carotid artery)
9. Vessel dissection with the formation of intramural hematoma

CT, MRI or ultrasound of neck vessels - which is better?

Ultrasound diagnostics is always the method of choice in diagnosing neck vessels. This method is mandatory screening and is always performed initially. MSCT and MRI are verification methods when there are controversial issues with ultrasound and clarification is required to make a conclusion.

The advantages of tomography are the possibility of non-invasive, high-precision study of vascular structures over a large area with simultaneous visualization of the caliber and diameter of the vessel, the ability to obtain images from different angles with a single data collection, in areas that are difficult to reach with ultrasound.

At the same time, MSCT is the method of choice for acute, life-threatening vascular pathologies, when there is no time to conduct an MR examination. Such pathologies include impending rupture of an aneurysm, arterial dissection, acute thrombosis with cerebral ischemia.

It should be remembered that CT examinations are always performed with intravenous contrast, which poses some risk, since CT contrasts contain a high concentration of iodine and are often highly osmolar to blood. MRI images of neck veins, neck arteries and extracranial vessels are highly effective in identifying pathology both without and with contrast. In this case, contrast for MRI (gadolinium-containing) does not cause complications.

No preparation is needed for a neck MRI. During CT angiography, due to the use of contrast, you must refrain from eating three hours before the examination.

Where to get an MRI of neck vessels

For MR angiography, you need to choose a center with at least a 1.5 Tesla closed-type tomograph. In studies using open-type devices, visualization of vessels is difficult due to the low field of the tomograph, which is why it is necessary to resort to the introduction of contrast to enhance the image.

Source: https://xn—-xtbekk.xn--p1ai/article/mrt-sosudov-shei