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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, otherwise known as (MRIs) is another diagnostic tool used for assessing many types of spinal conditions. MRIs create images through an electromagnet instead of radiation using the water content within tissues.

This type of diagnostic tool is often used to image many parts of the spine such as discs, facet joints, spinal nerves, tumors, infections, cysts, and other structures. MRIs of the neck or back offer more images from more viewing angles than traditional x-rays.

These detailed and varied images may provide your doctor with information not available through other tests.  Most MRIs are ordered when pain persists despite treatment with medication and physical therapy.

  • You will be asked several questions about any metal or electrical implants you may have.
  • Let the technician know if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
  • You will be asked to remove all metal objects and jewelry.

The procedure will usually take less than 30 minutes. If a dye is used, it may take longer:

  • Most often, neck or back MRIs are made with the patient lying on a table that slides into a scanner. There are a few systems in which the neck or back MRI is made with the patient standing or seated.
  • The technician will help you to get into the best position for the imaging.
  • You will be asked to remain still while the images are being made.
  • In some cases, the doctor may order a neck or back MRI to be performed using a contrast material (dye) to make certain tissue easier to evaluate.
  • You will leave the neck or back MRI area and go home.
  • A radiologist will read the images and make a report.
  • You will have a follow-up appointment with your doctor after the neck or back MRI to discuss the findings.
  • You may be told that the results of your MRI will be sent to the doctor who ordered the test. This indicates that a report will be sent.
  • If you are seeing a surgeon, they will need the actual images to give you the best information about your treatment options.
  • You will need to obtain these from the imaging center (either on disc or on film) and be sure to bring them to your follow-up appointment.

Leaders in Advanced Spine Procedures

To find out whether you would benefit from artificial disc surgery, make an appointment to visit Texas Back Institute in the Dallas, TX, area for an evaluation. We always reserve surgery as a last resort, so we’ll seek to relieve pain first through conservative treatments such as physical therapy and pain management. If severe pain persists and it is determined that you would benefit from surgery, we can help you determine whether artificial disc replacement is right for you.

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