MRI WHOLE SPINE – ScanLab Center

Synonyms/Aliases

Thoracic vertebra, dorsal vertebra/spine

Abbreviations

MRI W/SPINE

^Report

4-6 hours (after completion of the test).

^Setup

All working days

^Scan

1 HOUR

Test in Brief

An imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radiowaves to produce images. Unlike X-rays and CT scan, it does NOT use ionizing radiation. The patient lies on a motorized table which will move the patient into the scanner which resembles a giant doughnut (like a tunnel that is open at both ends).

Exam Requirements

Remove all metal objects (e.g. watches, jewellery); patient should complete the safety questionnaire that is provided prior to the procedure; the scanner is a tunnel that is open at both ends; headphones or earphones will be used to muffle the sounds produced by the scanner. Occasionally, a special dye (contrast media) is administered through the vein. Patient should lie still till the end of procedure/exam to avoid getting blurry images.

Instructions

INSTRUCTIONS FOR REFERRING DOCTOR OR INSTITUTION: Please state clinical indication for the test on the request form; for NHIF & other insurance clients, provide the necessary documentation in full inclusive of stamps and referrer’s name/ signature/ board registration details where required. In case of NHIF queries/ clarifications, call 0785 033335 (Nakuru). INSTRUCTIONS FOR RADIOGRAPHER: Guide the patient when filling the safety questionnaire to identify any contra-indications before the procedure/exam.

Method

Patient is placed in the MRI magnetic bore; radiofrequency is sent in depending on the sequence/ time; radiofrequecy is turned off; images are reconstructed on the MRI Console & assessed for good radiographic quality. Images are then reviewed by the radiologist. A comprehensive report detailing the patient name, gender, age, procedure date, procedure name and findings is provided.

Usefulness /Advantages

to examine the brain and/or spinal cord for injuries or the presence of structural abnormalities or certain other conditions, such as: Tumors. Abscesses.

Category