MRI For Lumbar Spine

Posted by Jasper Nissim on April 10th, 2021

Magnetic resonance imaging is an accurate imaging system that greatly helps in evaluating lumbar spine disorders. MRI for the lumbar spine is carried out by making use of magnetic fields and radio waves along with a computer to develop images of the spine. This diagnostic procedure is capable of developing three-dimensional images with excellent clarity.

MRI for a Better Evaluation of Bodily Abnormalities

The reason behind many doctors preferring MRI for their patients is its accuracy. It can provide a clearer, more detailed picture of the disorders in the body structure, which cannot be identified through X-rays, ultrasound, and CT scans. MRI for the lumbar spine can precisely diagnose the disorders in the discs including slipped disc and compressions caused to the spinal nerves, as well as other additional conditions. Using lumbar spine MRI, it is possible to receive a better picture of the soft tissues, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, ligaments and vertebral spaces, and more. It also helps to identify the healthy as well as degenerated tissues in the spinal areas.

Even though the scan procedure is identical for the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spine, it is carried out as individual sections as each differs in slice thickness, a field of view (FOV), and certain other factors.

Pain-free Diagnostic Procedure

Through the MRI procedure, physicians are able to make an improved diagnosis and can therefore suggest appropriate treatment procedures. Thereby it is even possible to reduce the chances of undergoing complex surgeries.

MRI is a non-invasive scanning method free from ionizing radiation. The entire process is painless and free from side effects. The important point to note while undergoing an MRI scan is that the patient must maintain a stable position because even the slightest movement can produce inaccurate images. For the imaging process, it is not necessary to take any medicine. However, those patients who are claustrophobic are given mild sedatives.

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique is not advised for patients who have metal implants such as pacemakers, intracranial aneurysm clips, and other objects, as these might affect the scan results considerably.