Why is a back MRI performed? How is it prepared and conducted? Are there any harms associated with this procedure? Here is everything you need to know in the following article.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique that relies on the use of a magnetic field and radio waves to detailed cross-sectional images of the internal organs and tissues of the body, including bones and joints. Below we will talk about the reasons for performing an MRI of the back and some important information related to it:
Reasons for performing an MRI of the back
MRI is a painless examination that enables doctors to look inside the body''s tissues and structures by producing a high-definition image.
Doctors usually use an MRI of the back to check for problems in the bones and joints of the back, the spinal cord, or problems in the pelvis.
The following are some examples of health conditions that can be detected during a back MRI:
Spinal cord injuries.
Neck and lower back pain.
A herniated disc between the vertebrae of the spine is known as a disc.
Damage to the joints of the spine and pelvis.
Problems with the pelvic bones or organs near it, including the uterus and ovaries.
Bone and soft tissue cancer.
Tearing of ligaments and cartilage of the spine.
Bone infection.
Compression of the spinal cord or nerves.
Spondylolisthesis.
Cauda equina syndrome.
Preparing for a back MRI
Preparations necessary for a back MRI scan include the following
It is normal to take meals or medications before the examination unless the doctor decides otherwise.
Arrive on time and change into a medical gown.
Remove all metal belongings, such as: jewelry, watches, belts, money, phone, hairpins or wigs, and bras that contain metal.
Remove all removable medical devices, such as dentures or hearing aids.
Sometimes the patient is injected intravenously with a dye called contrast material to show some specific details, and this may be done according to the decision of the treating physician.
It should be noted that the imaging technician must be informed if there are any medical devices or metals inside the patient’s body, such as:
Implantable defibrillator, pacemaker, or artificial heart valves.
Metal limbs and joints.
Nails, plates or metal clips.
Cochlear implant.
IUD.
Medication pumps including insulin pump.
Dental implants or dental fillings.
Bullets or bullet fragments.
Implanted neurostimulators
Tattooing: There are some dark pigments used to draw tattoos that contain metals or any other permanent cosmetic materials that contain metals.
How to perform a back MRI
The steps for performing a back MRI examination include the following
Lie on a long, tube-like table that will begin to slide when you start shooting.
Use some belts or straps to keep the patient still during the examination.
Put earplugs or headphones to listen to music or anything else to reduce the noise that will be produced while the device is operating.
The table slides when starting the test, as a part of the body may be ed into the device or the entire body, depending on the part to be examined.
Stay inside the device for between 20-90 minutes.
Communicate with a photography expert via microphone if you require assistance.
Giving the patient a sedative medication if he feels fear or claustrophobia.
Go home and do your routine work after completing the test. If the patient receives a sedative medication, he will be asked to stay until the medication wears off and go home to rest.
Prepare the required results and reports and send them to the treating physician.
Risks and warnings of performing an MRI of the back
Risks and warnings of a back MRI scan include the following
1. Risks related to exposure to magnetic fields
MRI is safer than CT or X-ray, because it does not rely on the use of harmful ionizing radiation.
However, magnetic force can cause attraction to medical devices that may be present inside the body, which may lead to serious problems that affect the patient’s safety. Even if these devices are not attracted, their presence may affect the accuracy and clarity of the results, so the patient should be informed. The doctor checked the presence of any metal materials implanted inside the body.
2. Risks related to the dye used
The dye used to conduct an MRI may cause allergic reactions in some people. In addition, this substance may be harmful to some people, especially pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people who suffer from liver or kidney disease.
