Book A Test

MRI CERVICAL SPINE

Original price was: ₹5,999.00.Current price is: ₹4,499.00.

Book Now
Categories ,

MRI Cervical Spine: Details & Precautions

An MRI of the Cervical Spine (C-Spine) is a non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed images of the neck region, including the vertebrae, spinal cord, nerves, intervertebral discs, and surrounding soft tissues. It is commonly used to diagnose neck pain, nerve compression, spinal injuries, and degenerative conditions.

Test Details

✅ Purpose of MRI Cervical Spine

  • Detects herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis.
  • Evaluates nerve root compression, radiculopathy, or cervical myelopathy.
  • Identifies spinal cord injuries, trauma, or fractures.
  • Assesses tumors, infections, abscesses, or inflammatory conditions.
  • Diagnoses multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions or myelitis.
  • Helps in surgical planning or post-surgical evaluation.

✅ Types of MRI Cervical Spine

  1. Standard MRI – Provides detailed images of the spine and surrounding structures.
  2. MRI with Contrast – Uses gadolinium contrast dye to detect tumors, infections, or inflammation.

✅ How Long Does It Take?

  • 30 to 60 minutes (may take longer with contrast).

Precautions Before the Test

🔹 Before the MRI

1️⃣ Metal & Implant Restrictions

  • Remove all metal objects (jewelry, piercings, glasses, belts).
  • Inform your doctor if you have:
    • Metal implants, pacemakers, aneurysm clips, or artificial joints.
    • Cervical spine hardware from previous surgeries.

2️⃣ Contrast Dye Precautions (If Used)

  • Kidney function test (GFR) may be needed if you have kidney disease.
  • Inform your doctor about allergies to contrast dye.

3️⃣ Pregnancy & Claustrophobia

  • Inform your doctor if pregnant (MRI is generally safe, but contrast may not be recommended).
  • If you have claustrophobia, discuss sedation options or open MRI.

4️⃣ Fasting & Hydration

  • Fasting is usually not required, unless contrast is used.
  • Drink water before and after the test if contrast is used.

During the MRI

  • You will lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine.
  • The MRI scanner makes loud knocking sounds (earplugs or headphones are provided).
  • If contrast is used, an IV injection will be given.
  • You must stay still to get clear images.

After the MRI

  • No downtime (can resume normal activities unless sedated).
  • If contrast was used, drink plenty of water to flush it out.
  • Results take 1–3 days, reviewed by a radiologist.

Common Findings & What They Mean

📉 Abnormal MRI May Indicate:

  • Herniated Disc or Spinal Stenosis → Compression of nerves causing neck pain, numbness, or weakness in arms.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease → Wear and tear of spinal discs leading to chronic neck pain.
  • Cervical Myelopathy → Spinal cord compression causing balance issues and weakness.
  • Tumors or Infections → Contrast-enhanced areas may suggest cancer or infections.
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Lesions or Myelitis → Autoimmune damage to the spinal cord.
  • Spinal Fractures → Could be due to trauma or osteoporosis.