Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):

MRI does not utilize ionizing radiation like X-ray or CT scans.  It has become one of the single most revealing imaging studies of the spine.  MRI is performed utilizing pulsed radio frequency waves and a strong magnetic field to provide detailed images of soft tissue.  The MR image is strongly influenced by the water concentration within the tissues.

MRI units come in different configurations.  Some of the units have closed cylindrical magnets.  There are also units that are more open. MRI studies provide high-resolution detailed image of the spine from many perspectives.

The MRI study provides a detailed view of the soft tissues of the spine that includes the intervertebral disc, spinal (thecal) sac, the spinal cord, spinal (facet) joints, and the spinal nerve roots.  It also provides a detailed assessment of spinal tumors, spinal cysts and infectious abscesses within the spine.  MRI is used to identify, monitor and re-evaluate spinal disorders.  It can be used to assess small metabolic shifts within spinal tissues.  MRI provides valuable insight for therapeutic planning and intervention.

Unlike X-ray, there is no use of ionizing radiation therefore the MRI scans can be performed on pregnant women.  Contraindications for an MRI scan include cardiac pacemakers, which could malfunction, certain types of prosthetic heart valves and metal filings in and around the eye (orbital) region.  Some MRI scanners completely surround the individual increasing the potential for a claustrophobic experience during the MRI study.  These individuals do better in an open MRI unit. New generation MRI scanners are more open and spacious therefore less apt to induce a claustrophobic reaction.  The more open MRI units may contribute to some compromise of MR imaging quality.

High field magnets often provide better image quality than lower field magnet strength.  Typically an MRI scan of one region of the body or spine takes from between 15 to 45 minutes in the scanner.  The MRI study acquires images of an area of the body by using a large magnetic field, which encircles the body.  Through the use of the magnetic field and sound wave energy bounced off tissues of the body the MRI records the difference between the concentration of water and its alignment with the magnetic fields, providing data used by the computer to reconstruct an image.  MRI studies provide highly detailed images of the body and the spine from many perspectives.