MRI Cervical Spine without Contrast
What is an MRI Cervical Spine without Contrast?
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging modality that uses a magnetic field, the energy of radio waves, and a computer to create images of internal body organs, bones, and soft tissues. There are small bones in your body called vertebrae that are joined together to form the “spine.” The cervical spine refers to the part of the spine located in the back of your neck. It consists of 7 vertebrae named C-1 to C-7. The spine encloses your spinal cord, and in between each vertebra, there is an opening for the nerves to exit and supply the surrounding muscles and organs. With the help of an MRI of the cervical spine, your doctor can see the vertebrae, spinal disks, spinal canal, and spinal cord.
No contrast material is used in MRI without contrast.
Why and when do you need an MRI of the cervical spine without contrast?
Reasons you may need an MRI of the cervical spine without contrast include:
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or arms
- Neck muscles stiffness and limited mobility
- Tingling or Numbness in arms, hands, and fingers.
- Paralysis or Weakness in arms
Do you need to prepare for the test?
MRI cervical spine without contrast is a special test that may need some preparation.
- You may eat or drink according to your doctor’s advice
- Since the test uses a magnetic field, you may need to tell the doctor if you have any metal implants, pacemakers, or prostheses in your body and bring detailed information about them.
- You would be asked not to wear jewelry or watches or bring keys, credit cards, and ATM cards.
What can you expect?
- You will be asked to lie down on the table that will slide into the MRI machine that looks like a large tunnel
- You need to lie down still and not move to prevent the images from getting blurry.
- Inside the machine, you will hear tapping or snapping noises.
- You will be alone in the room but under the constant care of a technician across the glass window who will be talking to you.
- It is a painless procedure that lasts for about 30-60 minutes but may take longer.
Are there any risks to the cervical spine without contrast?
MRI cervical spine without contrast is a non-invasive test that usually has no risks. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, have kidney disease, or have metallic implants or prostheses in your body.
What do the test results mean?
Once the MRI is complete, a radiologist will interpret the images and will generate a report summarizing the findings. Your doctor will review the report and discuss the results with you, providing further guidance on potential treatment options or additional tests if necessary.
The abnormal results may include;
- Vertebral fractures
- Injuries of the surrounding ligaments
- Infection or abscess
- Spinal cord compression
- Slipped or Bulging spinal disks
- Pressing of your nerves or spinal cord
- Tumors
- Unusual curves in the spine
- Narrowing of the spine compressing the spinal cord
- Deformities or congenital defects of the spine
Please note that the presence of abnormal results on the MRI does not necessarily indicate a definitive diagnosis. Further evaluation by a healthcare professional may be required.
Related Tests:
Other related tests may include:
- CT scan of the spine
- X-ray of the spine
Our clinical experts continually monitor the health and medical content posted on CURA4U, and we update our blogs and articles when new information becomes available. Last reviewed by a clinical team on January 9th, 2024.
Frequently ordered together
CT Cervical Spine without Contrast
X-Ray Cervical Spine AP & Lateral
X-Ray Cervical Spine 4 Views
MRI Cervical Spine with Contrast
MRI Cervical Spine with And without Contrast
CT Cervical Spine With & Without Contrast
X-Ray Cervical Spine 6V
X-Ray Cervical Spine 2-3V
X-Ray Cervical Spine 4-5V
X-Ray CERVICAL SPINE COMPLETE
X-Ray CERVICAL SPINE WITH OBLIQUES FLEXION EXTENSION
565.00$
150.00$
150.00$
440.00$
620.00$
620.00$
150.00$
140.00$
110.00$
95.00$
95.00$
