What is cervical spine MRI with contrast?
A cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a diagnostic imaging test that can produce detailed pictures of the soft tissues in the neck. An MRI uses radio or magnetic waves to create the images that show cross sections of the tissue.
How long does a cervical MRI with contrast take?
The test usually takes 30 to 60 minutes but can take as long as 2 hours.
Why would a doctor order an MRI of the cervical spine?
Doctors might order an MRI to evaluate the anatomy of the seven cervical spine bones or spinal cord, or to look for injuries in the area. A cervical spine MRI also can help doctors: Evaluate symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms, shoulders, or neck area.
What is a cervical spine with contrast?
CT Cervical Spine Scan With Contrast. Contrast is a type of dye that the radiology nurse injects into your arm. They administer the dye through your vein in a process called intravenous (IV) injection. This dye contains iodine that helps show differences between organs, bony structures, and other tissues in your body.
What can an MRI of the cervical spine detect?
A cervical spine MRI scan is used to help diagnose: tumors in your bones or soft tissues. bulging discs, or herniated discs. aneurysms, which are bulges in arteries, or other vascular disorders.
Does your whole body go in for a neck MRI?
Coils (special devices to improve image quality) may be placed on or around the neck area. The scanning table will slide your entire body into the magnet. During the scan you will not feel anything, but you will hear intermittent humming, thumping, clicking and knocking sounds.
What do you wear to a cervical spine MRI?
Before you go in for the MRI, you’ll need to remove all jewelry and clothing that contains metal. It may be easier to leave your jewelry at home. You’ll probably need to wear a hospital gown during the test. Your doctor might recommend an open MRI if you’re overweight or extremely claustrophobic.
Does cervical spine MRI show the brain?
The Cervical spine MRI can look at parts of the lower brain including the cerebellum and brain stem. Some conditions such as Chiari malformations, a malformation of the brain, can present with neck pain.
How do you prepare for a cervical spine MRI?
How is a cervical spine MRI done?
A cervical MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses energy from strong magnets to create pictures of the part of the spine that runs through the neck area (cervical spine). MRI does not use radiation (x-rays). Single MRI images are called slices. The images can be stored on a computer or printed on film.
What does a cervical spine MRI look at?
It shows a detailed view of the soft tissues in the spine, which includes muscles, ligaments, discs, and cerebrospinal fluid. It provides more information that helps more properly diagnose any abnormalities, injuries, and diseases of the cervical spine.
What can be seen on a cervical spine MRI?