MRI of the cervical spine is a highly informative and modern diagnostic method that allows you to identify various pathologies of soft tissues, blood vessels, vertebrae, and intervertebral discs. The safety of the method allows tomography to be performed on pregnant women and young children. Often the procedure is performed with an MRI of the brain and thoracic region.
Content:
In the neck area there are a large number of nerve endings and blood vessels that supply the brain. Pathological changes in the intervertebral discs over time provoke compression of important arteries. One of the complications of osteochondrosis is spondylosis.
The condition is characterized by the growth of bone tissue of the vertebrae, so-called osteophytes. They compress nerves and arteries, which reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the brain.
This causes various physiological and psycho-emotional disorders.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the vessels and neck makes it possible to determine with high accuracy between which vertebrae the compression occurred, the condition of the arteries, and atherosclerotic changes in them.
Indications for MRI of the cervical spine:
- dizziness;
- headache;
- extraneous noise in the ears;
- limitation of head mobility;
- pain syndrome radiating to the upper extremities;
- visual impairment;
- frequent fainting;
- regular pain and stiffness in the neck;
- Sometimes MRI is prescribed before surgery or after surgery to determine the condition of the cervical spine.
- hernias and protrusions with osteochondrosis of the neck;
- various neoplasms;
- narrowing of the intervertebral canal;
- multiple sclerosis;
- inflammation of the spinal cord;
- spinal column deformity;
- vertebral displacement;
- osteophytes;
- compression of nerve endings;
- vascular pathologies;
- birth defects.
Types of MRI
There are 2 types of MRI machines: closed and open. The first ones are a pipe. They create a powerful magnetic field that allows scanning of internal organs. Modern devices have magnets at the bottom and top. The power of the device is slightly less, but it is quite enough to carry out the procedure.
Advantages of open MRI of the cervical spine:
- the possibility of performing the procedure on overweight people weighing from 120 to 200 kg;
- eliminating panic attacks due to claustrophobia;
- monitoring of young patients and elderly people.
When the doctor has unclear or controversial questions, the patient is prescribed an MRI of the cervical spine with contrast. There are 2 methods of administering drugs with color. One reveals pathological abnormalities in the spinal canal, the other - the condition and patency of blood vessels. Both procedures provide a clearer picture of the abnormalities occurring.
Another informative method is MRI with angiography of the cervical spine. Unlike the method described above, the procedure is used to check the condition of blood vessels, to identify impaired blood flow, narrowing of the lumen, plaques, and oncological formations.
Preparation for procedures
The MRI procedure of the cervical spine is simple and does not require special preparation. It is enough to prepare yourself mentally, come on an empty stomach and visit the restroom before the session.
Tomography with myelography requires additional preparation. Necessary:
- Get advice from your doctor.
- Observe dietary restrictions - 3 days before the procedure, foods that increase gas formation in the stomach are excluded from the menu. You need to give up cabbage, black bread, legumes and carbonated drinks.
- For 2 days before the procedure, drink 2 liters of clean water;
- Come for a magnetic examination with myelography or angiography on an empty stomach.
On a note. An iodine-containing solution used as a contrast can cause nausea and dizziness, so doctors do not recommend eating before the examination.
MRI procedure
How is an MRI of the cervical spine done? The procedure is safe, so it is prescribed even to small children. The main condition is complete immobility of the patient.
- Gets rid of metal objects, removes earrings, watches, belts, piercings.
- He lies down on the tomograph table and, if necessary, is injected with a contrast agent.
- The head is fixed with bolsters, the limbs are secured with belts. This measure eliminates any movement that causes blur in the image.
- The table is pushed into the tomograph, which has a cylindrical shape, and an MRI is performed. The ring of the device begins to rotate around the patient. It scans organs under the influence of a magnetic field and radio frequency pulses.
- Special equipment displays pictures on the monitor.
- After the scan is completed, the patient is wheeled out of the scanner. The procedure is considered completed.
MRI lasts 20-30 minutes. When a contrast agent is introduced, the procedure increases in time to one hour.
On a note. During scanning, a person does not feel discomfort; unlike ultrasound, magnetic tomography can be performed many times.
After an MRI scan of the cervical spine, clear images of bones, soft tissues, ligaments, blood vessels and nerve endings are visible. Using the program, you can obtain a graphical image in 3 dimensions of all neck structures.
What does an MRI of the cervical spine reveal? After the procedure, the doctor deciphers the results. If there were traumatic injuries to the vertebrae, the doctor will see the fault line, bone fragments and their deformation. In case of hernia and protrusion of the cervical spine, MRI images will show a protrusion of the hernial sac, a decrease in the distance between the vertebral bodies, and deformation of their edges.
- dissection of the walls of blood vessels;
- arterial patency;
- blood flow dynamics;
- aneurysms and stenoses.
An MRI of the cervical spine is interpreted by a doctor. The document indicates the identified deviations and, in conclusion, prescribes adequate treatment.
Normally, a healthy neck in the picture has smooth vertebrae, without roughness or defects, with the same distance between them. The nerve roots are not compressed by anything. The image should not contain dark spots - signs of inflammation and neoplasms.
Patient reviews of undergoing resonance imaging are divided. People are afraid of immobilization and being in a closed space, which can cause an attack of claustrophobia. Otherwise, the procedure was well tolerated, without complications.
Contraindications
Magnetic resonance imaging is safe and can be performed as prescribed by a doctor an unlimited number of times. There is a category of people for whom it is absolutely contraindicated. The device uses a magnetic field, so the procedure is not prescribed for patients with metal implants, staples and special objects embedded in the body.
Contraindications for MRI of the cervical spine:
- metal prostheses;
- pacemaker;
- insulin pump;
- hearing aid.
It is not advisable to use magnetic scanning when:
- anemia;
- poor blood clotting;
- pregnancy (first trimester);
- claustrophobia;
- mental disorders;
On a note. The use of a contrast agent is prohibited if the patient has an individual intolerance to its components.
Features of MRI in children
Children perceive any research with distrust. The state of immobility causes anxiety and fear. Due to their sensitivity, older children may refuse to go into the apparatus.
Before the procedure, the child must be mentally prepared. Explain that:
- you need to lie down without moving for 20 minutes;
- During operation of the device, noise will appear and you should not be afraid of it - this is the normal state of the device.
MRI of the cervical spine in children under 5 years of age and children with mental disorders is performed under anesthesia. This allows the patient to be immobilized and the examination to be carried out calmly. Anesthesia is carried out under the supervision of a specialist and with the consent of the parents.
Indications for the cervical and brain procedure:
- fainting;
- convulsions;
- headache;
- sudden changes in behavior;
- developmental delay.
On a note. Magnetic scanning is absolutely safe for a child and can be performed at any age. The magnetic field does not affect physiological processes in the body.
MRI is an effective and high-tech research method that allows you to thoroughly study the structures of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar regions and brain. Diagnostics detects diseases at an early stage, providing timely treatment.
Source: http://krepkiesustavy.ru/osteohondroz/scheinogo-otdela-pozvonochnika-mrt/
MRI of the cervical spine and procedure for performing the procedure
To examine the cervical spine, MRI may be preferred. This diagnosis is not accompanied by the appearance of pain. The examination is safe and does not require specific preparation. An MRI of the cervical spine is performed only according to doctor's indications.
Tomography is not included in the mandatory annual procedures. Diagnostics is not suitable for prevention. The examination helps to obtain high-quality 3D images. MRI makes it possible to establish a diagnosis even at the initial stage of the formation of any pathological process.
A study may be required if certain negative signs are present.
MRI of the cervical spine can detect the presence of pathology at an early stage
What is MRI
MRI is based on the work of very strong magnetic fields. Diagnostics is aimed at studying internal organs, tissues and bone structures. Nuclear magnetic resonance is used. During the examination, the patient is placed in the ring of the device.
The diameter of the tunnel is usually 70–90 cm. The ring is open on both sides. The device has lighting, ventilation and a microphone, which are necessary to ensure patient comfort. Diagnostics makes it possible to establish an accurate diagnosis and select effective treatment.
An MRI of the cervical spine should only be performed for medical reasons.
Diagnostics allows you to study the condition of any part of the body. Despite this, the method is not on the list of mandatory ones for regular use. The examination is required only if indicated. Only a doctor can prescribe a test.
What are the indications for the procedure?
First, a preliminary examination by a doctor is required. Only after this the doctor decides whether a particular patient needs an MRI. This is due to the fact that diagnosis is carried out only when indicated.
Pain and difficulty moving the neck are indications for an MRI
Symptoms and indications that require magnetic tomography are presented in the table below.
Indications Diagnosis is prescribed for: • osteochondrosis in the neck; • impaired blood flow in the brain; • hernias in intervertebral discs; • suspicion of the presence of stenosis; • neoplasms; • metastasis; • multiple sclerosis; • fractures, cracks and injuries of the cervical spine; • anomalies of the cervical spine.| Symptoms | All of the listed pathologies may be indicated by the following pathological symptoms: • constant headache of unknown etiology; • pain in the neck; • numbness in the hands; • weakening of the upper limbs; • difficulty moving the neck. |
If a doctor recommends an MRI, it is highly recommended not to ignore the procedure. Only in this case will it be possible to detect the pathological process at an early stage of development.
An MRI may be prescribed after other studies that have not given a positive result. Tomography clarifies a questionable diagnosis and makes it possible to select adequate treatment. Often the cervical region is examined together with the brain.
Do you need preparation for an MRI?
MRI does not require any additional preparation. It’s enough just to take into account a few simple nuances. The first thing you need to do is to prepare yourself mentally. This is especially true for suspicious people or patients with claustrophobia.
Before the examination, you should remove your phone and other gadgets from your pockets.
Magnetic tomography may be recommended for children. In this case, the baby needs to be informed in advance about all the features of the procedure. Doctors advise presenting the upcoming procedure as an adventure or a game.
How the parents prepare the child for manipulation determines whether the baby will feel comfortable and remain motionless. During diagnosis, mom or dad may be with the minor to support him.
On the morning of the diagnosis, you should not eat food. You can take a snack with you and eat immediately after the procedure is completed.
MRI of the cervical spine requires the removal of any metal elements. It is advisable to leave any decorations at home. Before entering the office, you must put out your phone or any other electronic devices. Otherwise, diagnostics will be ineffective, and the device may even fail.
The hearing aid is removed. Any removable structures are removed. The patient's clothing should be clean and comfortable. It should not contain metal design elements. The patient may be given a sedative beforehand.
The child should be told about the upcoming diagnosis as if it were an adventure or an interesting game.
How the procedure is performed
Diagnostics can be carried out either in a medical gown or in your own clothes, if they do not have design elements. The patient lies down on the apparatus couch. To examine the cervical spine, the patient's body is fixed in the neck, chest and arms.
The patient must remain completely still throughout the examination. This condition is required to obtain high quality images. During diagnosis, medical personnel are located in the next room.
In some cases, someone close to you is allowed to be with the sick person during the tomography. This exception is usually made for minors or people with claustrophobia.
The patient must lie still during the entire examination
The diagnosis lasts 30–45 minutes. All this time the patient must remain motionless. If necessary, you can contact doctors via the built-in microphone. Medical personnel give instructions using a loudspeaker.
Doctors should be informed of any discomfort that occurs. It is first important to ensure that there are no possible contraindications.
When to Use Contrast
Before diagnosis, the patient may be injected with a contrast agent. The action of the product is aimed at improving visualization. Thanks to this component, the boundaries between structures of different densities are more clearly visible.
The contrast agent is administered intravenously. This is done half an hour before the MRI. In this case, the patient may experience a feeling of discomfort and burning. Such symptoms are considered normal and disappear without outside help.
Contrasting is required when it is not possible to determine the nature of the neoplasm. It is MRI in this case that makes it possible to distinguish a malignant tumor from a benign one. A contrast agent can be administered only if there are no contraindications.
30 minutes before diagnosis, the patient is injected intravenously with a contrast agent.
After administration of the contrast agent, the patient should remain motionless for 20–25 minutes. This is necessary to distribute the product throughout the body. Only after this will the tomography begin. An MRI with contrast takes about an hour on average.
What deviations can be identified
MRI is 100% safe and gives a chance to identify almost any pathological process. A complete picture of the cervical region can be obtained with 3D images of the required area. Tomography can reveal:
- neurovascular abnormalities;
- injuries and damage to the spinal cord;
- hernias;
- congenital pathological processes;
- disturbances in the blood flow;
MRI can detect hernias and other pathologies in the spine
- cysts;
- neoplasms and metastasis.
Diagnostics is effective for both advanced and initial pathological processes.
With the help of an examination, you can determine the cause of constant headaches and discomfort in the cervical spine. Often an MRI is sufficient to make a definitive diagnosis. Therefore, this method is often used after other examinations that have proven ineffective. The examination is also used to differentiate with other abnormalities.
Can there be consequences after the procedure?
Usually the diagnosis does not provoke complications. To make the diagnosis completely safe, tell your doctor about any individual characteristics of your body. The doctor makes sure there are no contraindications.
After an MRI with contrast, the patient may feel weak and dizzy
A common consequence after MRI is an allergy to the contrast agent. In this case, the patient begins to complain about:
- intense nausea and vomiting;
- dizziness;
- headache;
- prostration;
- fainting state;
- fever;
- skin rashes accompanied by itching;
- paleness of the skin.
The listed signs do not pose any danger. Symptoms disappear on their own after 2–3 hours.
The video describes MRI of the cervical spine in detail:
When is MRI contraindicated?
MRI of the neck is not performed when examining patients who have contraindications. Otherwise, there is a high risk of side effects. Limitations of manipulation include:
- pacemakers in the body;
- ferromagnetic implants;
- weight from 120 kg;
- advanced form of claustrophobia;
- dentures;
- inability to remain completely still;
- heart and kidney failure;
- allergy to contrast agent;
- 1st trimester of pregnancy (with contrast – pregnancy and breastfeeding).
You will need to inform your doctor in advance about the presence of possible contraindications.
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Source: https://infouzi.ru/mrt/pozvonochnik/tomografija-shejnyh-pozvonkov.html
MRI of the cervical spine: what the examination shows and why it is prescribed
Examination of the neck using a magnetic resonance imaging scanner is an informative, painless and safe diagnostic method for the body.
Why an MRI of the cervical spine is done in each specific case, what the result shows and how to prepare for the procedure is explained by the attending physician.
Typically, magnetic resonance imaging is an independent method for examining the cervical spine.
However, in case of traumatic fractures of the spine, it acts as an additional one - in this case, more reliable information is obtained using x-rays. MRI is performed in two ways - non-contrast and contrast. The price for tomography with contrast is approximately one and a half times higher than the cost of a simple examination.
Why is an MRI done?
The neck is the most mobile and most vulnerable part of the spine. Blood vessels reach the brain through the cervical spine, and it is in this part of the spine that most fractures occur. MRI helps to timely detect the slightest changes in bones, cartilage, nerves, soft tissues, ligaments, and blood vessels, and therefore provide effective treatment.
Important: MRI does not replace the use of other types of diagnostics, for example, X-rays, computed tomography, ultrasound or Doppler ultrasound - a comprehensive examination gives the most accurate results.
Using a series of images taken by a tomograph, you can determine the condition of various parts of the neck and clearly see:
- vertebrae and spinal discs;
- spinal canal and spinal cord;
- tissues, ligaments and muscles;
- vessels and the movement of blood through them.
Since MRI of the neck can be done many times, this procedure is ideal for tracking the dynamics of a disease or treatment process.
What will an MRI show in a healthy neck?
If there are no serious problems in the cervical spine, then the radiologist’s report will indicate that no pathologies were identified or that the detected changes correspond to the patient’s age. The neck of a healthy person in the pictures looks like this:
- The vertebrae have a regular shape, a smooth surface, and a symmetrical arrangement.
- The height of each intervertebral disc is the same throughout its entire length.
- There are no pinched nerves.
- The diameter of the vessels is normal, and the blood flow is stable and sufficient.
- Seals and inflammations are not detected.
This is a picture of an “ideal” neck. Unfortunately, such photographs are very rare.
When a doctor examines the neck with an MRI
Many diseases begin in the neck. Damage to nerve endings, changes in blood vessels, deformation of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, and the appearance of neoplasms of any nature often lead to the appearance of symptoms and conditions not directly related to the cervical spine. Magnetic resonance imaging will be informative and effective if:
- causeless pain in the head;
- dizziness and fainting;
- feeling that the neck is tight or immobile, pain, torticollis;
- feeling of crawling sensations;
- unpleasant sensations on the scalp, for example, soreness at the roots of the hair;
- changes in blood pressure;
- feeling of numbness in the neck or arms.
The doctor prescribes an MRI of the cervical spine if there are suspicions of injury, tumors, or problems with the vessels of the neck (thrombosis, circulatory failure).
If the patient has infectious diseases such as toxoplasmosis, osteomyelitis or tuberculosis, an MRI is also performed.
The examination will also help make a diagnosis if there are complaints of pain in the neck and back of the head, while painful sensations simultaneously appear in the arm or chest.
A tomograph will help you understand the situation if there are obvious symptoms or suspicions of:
- paraparesis of the upper limbs or tetraparesis;
- multiple sclerosis;
- vertebral artery syndrome;
- spinal canal stenosis;
- Ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatism, arthrosis, spondylitis;
- neck abscess.
What does an MRI of the cervical spine tell you?
The results of the examination are photographs taken layer by layer, in which all areas of the neck are visible in detail.
It is possible to build a three-dimensional image, as well as save the results on a flash drive or send them by email.
In any case, the specialist is able to see not only clear evidence of the disease, but also discern the initial changes in the vertebrae, cartilage, joints, tissues and vessels of the neck.
The list of diseases and pathological conditions that are determined by MRI of the cervical spine is extensive and varied. The following groups can be roughly distinguished:
- Abnormal neck structure or developmental defects.
- Traumatic lesions - fractures, dislocations, subluxations, sprains.
- Diseases - hernias, osteochondrosis, myelitis, arachnoiditis, myelitis, spondyloarthrosis, multiple sclerosis.
- Neoplasms - tumors of various types in the lymph nodes, bone structures, spinal cord, metastases.
- Vascular anomalies - impaired blood flow in the cervical region, changes in the shape and size of blood vessels.
What can be seen in the photo
Most problems that arise in the cervical spine can be easily visualized using a tomograph. You can find out what an MRI of the cervical spine shows by examining the resulting images:
- in case of fractures of the arches or vertebral bodies, fault lines will be noticeable, while the fragments are often displaced and the vertebrae are deformed;
- if the fracture occurs due to a decrease in bone strength, for example, with osteoporosis, then an MRI will show altered bone tissue and a changed appearance of the vertebrae;
- neoplasms and metastases are visible on images as space-occupying formations;
- a hernia is diagnosed by the appearance of the intervertebral discs - their height decreases, the edges become deformed and arched, the membrane is often destroyed, changes appear in the spinal nerve: displacement, adhesion, compression, adhesion;
- multiple sclerosis appears in photographs in the form of light and dark spots, which depends on the shooting mode;
- with degeneration of the vertebrae, various neoplasms (spikes, protrusions), roughness, and pinched nerves are visible;
- myelomalacia is determined by deformation of the walls of the spinal canal, while dark areas with unclear boundaries appear in the images in the area of the spinal cord, which indicates tissue changes.
“If a fracture occurs as a result of injury, then it is better to take an x-ray - in this case, MRI is inferior in information content to traditional diagnostic methods”
Neck examination with contrast
To obtain the most accurate results, an MRI with contrast is prescribed. You cannot do without this method if you need to examine the vessels of the neck or if there is a suspicion of a tumor. The dye is injected intravenously before the procedure or directly into the spinal canal. The method is used if necessary:
- examine the patency and condition of the vascular system of the neck;
- assess blood flow speed;
- identify neoplasms, determine their nature and stage of development;
- see the location of the cysts.
There are contraindications for MRI of the cervical spine with contrast. The procedure should not be performed on pregnant women or people with severe kidney failure. Allergies to contrast media are rare, but do occur occasionally. You must inform your doctor in advance about all medications you take.
Preparation for the procedure
No special preparation is required for magnetic resonance imaging of the neck. Attention is paid only to standard requirements - the absence of electronic devices and metal parts in the body, the absence of claustrophobia and mental illness that prevent the patient from being stationary. Neck examination with a tomograph is not carried out at the beginning of pregnancy and for people weighing more than 120 kg.
Despite the fact that diagnosing many diseases using a magnetic field has become an almost routine procedure, many patients do not understand what an MRI is and do not know what to expect during the examination.
The essence of the method is that due to a strong magnetic field, hydrogen atoms are activated in cells and the signal reflected by them allows you to “draw” the studied area of the body on a computer monitor.
You can avoid unnecessary worries when examining the neck with a tomograph by imagining how the procedure goes:
- Before the MRI, jewelry is removed and items containing metal parts and electronic devices are removed from pockets.
- A special table on which the subject lies moves into the tomograph area, while only the cervical region will be in the magnetic field area.
- You should lie still during an MRI.
- The usual procedure lasts about 30 minutes and a little more if a contrast agent is used.
- During operation, the tomograph makes a slight noise that you do not need to pay attention to.
There are practically no complaints from patients about unpleasant or painful sensations during MRI.
Studying the structure and condition of the cervical vertebrae, vessels, tissues, cartilage, ligaments and nerves using a magnetic tomograph is the most informative, simple and safe way. The procedure does not require advance preparation.
Attention is paid only to standard requirements. The main one is the absence of metal parts and electronic devices in the body.
MRI with contrast effectively diagnoses the condition of blood vessels and blood flow speed, and also detects tumors in the early stages.
The diagnostic method determines how much the procedure costs. A regular neck examination will cost approximately 4,000 rubles, a contrast examination - 6,000 rubles.
Only large clinics can afford modern and safe equipment.
They also offer various ways to reduce the cost of examination - you can get an MRI of several parts of the spine at a discount or make an “appointment” with a tomograph at night.
Source: https://DiagnostLab.ru/mrt/golova-i-sheya/mrt-shejnogo-otdela-pozvonochnika-chto-pokazyvaet.html
How is an MRI of the cervical spine performed?
Magnetic resonance imaging (abbreviated as MRI) is a modern diagnostic technique that allows you to obtain a highly detailed image of the organ under study in three-dimensional format.
Its principle is based on the phenomenon of nuclear magnetic resonance, the essence of which is the excitation of the nuclei of hydrogen atoms under the influence of an electromagnetic field generated by a tomograph. The relaxation period of nuclei in affected tissues differs from the value characteristic of healthy ones.
This parameter is read by sensors, and its analysis is included in the algorithm for deciphering the results.
MRI of the cervical spine is most often used to detect degenerative-dystrophic lesions of the intervertebral discs - protrusions, extrusions, hernias. But that’s not all that this study reveals.
The doctor prescribes an MRI scan of the neck area for the patient not only to diagnose diseases of the spine, but also pathologies of the respiratory system, blood vessels, nerves, lymph nodes, muscles, and cartilage.
Read more about what MRI of the cervical spine is, how to prepare for the procedure, how it works, who is indicated and contraindicated, and why contrast is needed – in this article.
Preparing for diagnosis
Preparing for an MRI of the cervical spine includes several simple steps.
First of all, you need to visit your doctor. He may prescribe additional studies to exclude contraindications.
If you are planning a scan using contrast, you must ensure that you are not allergic to any of the components of the injected substance. At the appointment, the patient must report allergies to medications, a history of chronic diseases, and claustrophobia.
You should know that MRI is allowed to be performed no earlier than three days after angiography and a week after myelography.
A woman must be sure that she is not pregnant. MRI examination is not contraindicated, but it is prescribed with caution in the early stages, when the main organs and systems of the embryo are forming, and it is better to avoid the slightest influence on this process.
Immediately before entering the diagnostic room, you need to remove all metal elements from yourself - jewelry, accessories, removable hearing aids and dentures. You need to leave your mobile phone, plastic cards and other items that can affect the magnetic field of the device outside the door.
Indications and contraindications for MRI of the cervical spine
Indications for MRI scanning of the cervical spine are the following symptoms of diseases in this area:
- regular headaches, dizziness;
- recurrent fainting (in combination with brain examination), sudden loss of vision, other symptoms of impaired cerebral blood supply;
- hearing loss, noise, hum;
- pain in the back of the head, radiating to the back, sternum and arms;
- stiffness in the neck;
- numbness of the neck, limbs, “weakness” in the hands;
- paresthesia (“pins and needles”, tingling, burning, “cold”).
MRI is effective in diagnosing and monitoring the course of the following diseases:
- degenerative-dystrophic changes in the cervical vertebrae - osteochondrosis;
- inflammatory and infectious processes in the spine, for example, spondylitis, osteomyelitis;
- ankylosing spondylitis and other joint diseases;
- rheumatism, multiple sclerosis, other systemic diseases;
- vascular pathologies – vertebrobasilar insufficiency, stenosis, thrombosis of neck vessels;
- tumors;
- hereditary diseases, for example, short neck syndrome.
The method is used to assess damage to the spine and spinal cord due to trauma to the cervical area. MRI is required to identify the causes of surges in blood pressure, determine the location of the abscess, develop a surgical procedure, and so on.
MRI is not performed on patients with implanted metal structures and electronic devices: dental implants, crowns, vascular clips, pacemakers, insulin pumps, fixed hearing aids and other elements that can affect the function of the magnetic field. For the same reason, a contraindication for the study is the presence of tattoos made using metallic dyes.
It will not be possible to carry out MRI diagnostics on patients who are unable to remain motionless for a long time. It is staticity that is a prerequisite for obtaining reliable results.
Claustrophobia is a relative contraindication. For patients with fear of confined spaces, if necessary, it is allowed to use sedatives or put them into medicated sleep.
The weight limit is related to the technical characteristics of the tomograph. The maximum weight for different devices is, on average, 130 kilograms.
Another relative contraindication is the first trimester of pregnancy. If an urgent diagnosis is vital for the mother, possible risks to the fetus are neglected. Contrast MRI is prohibited at all stages of pregnancy and during breastfeeding.
Scanning with contrast is prohibited for persons with cardiovascular and renal insufficiency, as well as for those who are allergic to the components of the injected solution. To diagnose intervertebral hernia, fracture, tumor and other pathologies of the upper spine, computed tomography is recommended for such patients.
Is it possible to eat before an MRI?
5-8 hours before an MRI of the cervical spine with contrast, you should refrain from eating and an hour from drinking. If a standard tomographic examination of the upper region is performed, you must stop eating two hours in advance.
How the research works
Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical and other parts of the spine is a safe procedure during which the patient does not experience pain or discomfort. After the patient has removed metal parts (jewelry, items of clothing), put away phones, plastic cards and other electronic and magnetic devices, you can enter the diagnostic room.
How is the procedure done? Having entered the control room, the patient is placed on the retractable tomograph table. The doctor secures his limbs with soft straps to prevent involuntary movements.
After this, the medical worker moves into a room with a workstation - a room from which he will observe the progress of the scan through an observation window.
Voice communication with the subject is maintained through speakers and microphones built into the tomograph.
After turning on the equipment, the conveyor table moves into the tomograph tunnel, and its ring begins to rotate. The scan begins, during which the patient must remain motionless.
During operation, the device emits a monotonous hum; if it causes inconvenience, you are allowed to wear earplugs. The inside of the capsule is equipped with lighting, ventilation and an intercom.
If during the study the patient feels discomfort, he must immediately inform the employee observing him.
If an MRI is performed on a person with fear of confined spaces, a relative or friend is allowed to be present with the person during the session.
A neck MRI takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
At the end of the procedure, the doctor processes the results, prepares a written transcript of the MRI of the cervical spine and, along with printed images and files recorded on disk, gives them to the patient. Rehabilitation after tomography is not needed, you can immediately return to your usual activities.
What does an MRI of the cervical spine show?
As a result of MR scanning, a three-dimensional model of the object under study is obtained, created from layer-by-layer images. It clearly shows changes in the structure and structure of organs and tissues caused by inflammatory or infectious processes, provoked by injuries.
A tomography of the neck will show the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and surrounding tissues. The doctor will refer the patient for an MRI, where it will be clear what caused the painful symptoms.
The study may show that the patient has the following diseases:
- osteochondrosis, spondyloarthrosis, spondylosis, other degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the spine;
- osteomyelitis, bone tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases (spondylitis, ankylosing spondylitis), Guillain-Baré syndrome;
- abnormal structure or location of vertebrae, intervertebral discs, caused by trauma or congenital, including Klippel-Feil syndrome, the presence of an additional vertebra, bifurcation of the process;
- consequences of injuries - dislocations, fractures, hematomas and others;
- tumors, including in the bones, spinal cord, lymph nodes;
- metastases that have spread from neighboring organs;
- multiple sclerosis, arachnoiditis, myelitis, narrowing of the spinal canal, other pathologies of the structures of the brain and spinal cord;
- stenosis, thrombosis of head and neck vessels, other vascular pathologies;
- problems with nerve, muscle structures, thyroid gland, larynx, trachea, and so on.
Application of contrast agent
MRI of the cervical and other parts of the spine is sometimes performed with contrast. Contrast is required if it is necessary to identify the detected neoplasm and assess the nature of blood flow through the vessels of the neck.
Contrast fluid is administered intravenously. It quickly spreads along the vascular bed, performing a coloring function. The areas where contrast accumulates are clearly visible in the final image. Thus, increased blood circulation is observed in areas of growth of malignant tumors and in areas of inflammation.
Paramagnetic solutions based on gadolinium are used as contrast. They are harmless and rarely cause allergies or side effects. The substance is eliminated from the body independently.
A study with contrast is considered more informative, but it is technically more complex and takes longer. Therefore, its implementation is not always advisable.
Decoding the results
After the procedure is completed, the doctor begins to interpret the study results based on the resulting image. Transcription usually takes one to two hours. The patient is given a written report and pictures taken by a tomograph. If desired, the information is written to disk.
A normal MRI of the cervical spine shows the following:
- the surface of the vertebrae is smooth, integrity is preserved;
- the height of the intervertebral discs is not reduced, the surface is flat, smooth;
- the joints between the vertebral processes are smooth;
- the spinal column is symmetrical;
- spinal cord – well visualized along its entire length;
- the spinal nerve roots are free;
- no pathologies were identified.
If the resulting picture does not correspond to the norm, the specialist who accompanied the scan describes the detected abnormalities and their causes, but does not make a diagnosis.
This will be done by the attending physician - neurologist, oncologist, neurosurgeon, traumatologist. So, during a fracture, the fracture line, fragments, and deformed areas of the bone are visible.
MRI can detect and evaluate the extent of spinal cord damage resulting from trauma.
Protrusion of the intervertebral disc is expressed in a decrease in its height, extrusion and hernia - in protrusion beyond the vertebrae. Tumors of any nature and metastatic formations are perfectly visualized and differentiated.
Advantages of the method
The main advantage of magnetic resonance imaging is its wide range of applications compared to alternative diagnostic methods.
Thus, ultrasound is less informative, therefore it is prescribed as a screening examination, and X-ray techniques, including CT, are effective in studying dense structures and cavities.
MRI, although inferior to x-rays in terms of bone visualization quality, provides more information in its entirety.
MRI is a non-invasive technique. This means that surgery is not required to study the condition of the internal organs.
It does not cause side effects and is completely safe, since the magnetic field does not pose a threat to human health.
This sets MRI scanning apart from radiography, CT, MSCT and similar techniques, during which the patient is exposed to radiation.
Disadvantages: duration of the procedure and relatively high price.
Will an MRI show a pinched nerve?
The pinched nerve itself cannot be visualized using MRI. But such a diagnosis can be made: based on the clinical picture and identifying the causes of painful symptoms.
These may be foci of inflammation in the tissues surrounding the nerves, displacement of the vertebrae, intervertebral hernias, protrusions, tumors, consequences of injuries, and other abnormalities.
Most likely, they put pressure on the nerve endings in the area of the identified pathology.
If a pinched nerve causes serious discomfort, and we are talking about surgically eliminating its causes, it is advisable to undergo electroneuromyography - a study that, using an electrical impulse, allows you to assess the degree of damage to nerve fibers.
Diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis using MRI
Osteochondrosis is a group of pathological conditions, the development of which is associated with increased pressure on the spine, in particular on the intervertebral discs, which play a shock-absorbing role. The intervertebral disc consists of the nucleus pulposus and the fibrous ring. With age, under the influence of intense physical activity, the elasticity of the disc decreases.
This occurs due to a decrease in fluid in the nucleus pulposus. The result is rupture of the fibrous ring and displacement of part of the nucleus pulposus towards the hole, that is, the formation of a hernia. With an incomplete rupture, a protrusion is formed, with a pronounced one, with a displacement under the posterior longitudinal ligament, an extrusion.
Pain in osteochondrosis is usually caused by compression of the nerve roots by a hernia, and less often by muscle spasm.
All described conditions are perfectly visualized during MRI.
Price
Prices for MRI of the cervical spine vary in different regions, clinics, and different specialists. It is recommended to study the price list of the medical institution in advance. On average, a regular tomography session costs 4,500 rubles, with contrast - plus 4,000 rubles.
Source: https://iDiagnost.ru/mrt/mrt-shejnogo-otdela-pozvonochnika
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