Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbosacral region of the spine is an innovative method of radiation diagnostics, which is based on the characteristics of the atoms of the human body to respond to magnetic exposure. It uses a high power electromagnetic field and radio frequency pulses to produce images of the lumbar (lower) region. Special sensors of the tomograph make it possible not to shift a person in the case when it is also necessary to remove the upper zone of the spine. X-ray radiation is not used during the examination, so the procedure is not dangerous for the patient's he alth and can be repeated many times if necessary.
MRI of the lumbosacral spine is performed in the sagittal and transverse projections at the levels of the lesion. It has the ability to simultaneously see multiple slices on the monitor - images that are obtained with MRI. Optimum results are achieved with slice thicknesses of 3 to 4 mm (gapsbetween them should be absent). In one examination session, from several tens to hundreds of sections are produced. They are then stored in computer memory or printed on film. Today, MRI of the lumbar area of the spine is considered the most accurate method of research and is called the "gold standard" in diagnosis.
When is an MRI done at the lumbar level?
The study helps to identify pathological changes in the spine, as well as in the tissues adjacent to it. When using a magnetic resonance imaging scanner, it is possible to make a diagnosis at an early stage of the disease.
This makes it possible to start the treatment of pathologies associated with the spine in a timely manner and obtain a successful treatment result. MRI of the lumbosacral spine is prescribed in such cases:
- violation of the sensitivity of the lower extremities, weakness in the legs;
- untreated lower back pain;
- injury to the lumbar and sacral area, such as a fracture or spinal instability;
- symptoms of a malignant tumor together with pain at the level of the lumbar region;
- history of cancer and metastases of malignant cells in the lumbar region;
- congenital malformations and anomalies in the development of this part of the spine;
- infections and abscesses of the spinal cord and bones;
- disturbances in the process of urination.
What does an MRI of the lumbosacral spine show?
During the examination, the doctorcan detect anomalies. MRI allows you to analyze the state of the spinal cord in general, the intensity of chemical and physical processes in it, as well as to examine in detail the state of blood vessels.
In cases where a clearer image of the abnormal part of the tissue is required, an MRI of the spine is performed using a contrast agent. It enables clearer visualization, for example, helping to distinguish injuries and diseases from past surgical scars. But more often, the procedure with contrast is used to study or detect tumors of various nature. MRI of the lumbosacral spine determines:
- disc problems such as pinched nerves, ruptured discs, sciatica;
- an area of the spine with abnormal narrowing of the channels (stenosis), which is a possible indication for surgery;
- benign formations (hemangiomas) developing in the vertebral body;
- effect on the nerves and bones of the spine of malignant tumors of other nearby organs or their metastasis;
- intervertebral hernia and disc protrusion in this area;
- arthritis (inflamed joints) and bone loss;
- spinal stenosis (narrowing);
- spondylitis (degenerative changes in the vertebrae);
- areas with poor blood supply;
- infectious processes at the level of the lumbar;
- nerve damage due to injury ordiseases such as multiple sclerosis;
- congenital anomalies in the development of the spine.
Spinal cord examination
The spinal cord includes the nuclei of the peripheral and central nervous systems, so pathological processes in it can lead to serious diseases, including disability and death. MRI of the spinal cord and lumbosacral spine allows neurologists and neurosurgeons to timely diagnose and treat a number of diseases that would be incurable without the capabilities of magnetic resonance imaging.
The picture shows an image of a long light gray cord surrounded by a white liquid - this is the spinal cord. It is located in the background of the vertebral bodies. During the survey, its structure and size are assessed. For example, in the absence of pathologies, the spinal cord has clear and even edges, is located in the center of the spinal canal, and with increased size, an oncological process is possible. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal cord is prescribed in such cases:
- detection of the presence of focal lesions, malignant neoplasms of the spinal cord, as well as its membranes;
- suspicion of trauma, malignant lesions of the spine, as well as its other pathologies of vertebrogenic origin;
- determination of syringomyelia by assessing its CSF spaces;
- analysis of the state of the spinal cord after surgical interventions in this area.
Indications for MRI in the coccyx
MR tomography of the coccyx is a reliable non-radiation diagnostic method that allows you to assess the condition of the lower spine and the coccygeal region and identify various pathologies at the initial stage of occurrence.
This study is rarely done in isolation. Usually, if anomalies in this area are suspected, they are sent for MRI of the lumbosacral spine and coccyx, sometimes also together with the pelvic organs. The optimal area for examination is prescribed by the doctor depending on the symptoms. Indications for MRI of the coccyx:
- any traumatic injury in the sacrococcygeal region;
- congenital or acquired anomalies in the development of the sacrum and coccyx, namely, lumbalization of the vertebrae of the sacrum, cysts and coccygeal passages;
- suspicion for the presence of hemangiomas, cysts or malignant tumors, as well as their metastasis to the coccyx or sacrum;
- pain of any nature, localized in the lower back;
- impaired circulation and weakening of reflexes in the lower extremities, as well as their paralysis;
- suspected nerve root pathology (cauda equina syndrome);
- Miscure or questionable results from other surveys in this area.
What does a chest MRI diagnose?
This study is most often used to evaluate the structure of the spine from the inside. Magnetic resonance imaging allows you to see the intervertebral discs,spinal canal, muscles, other soft tissues, the upper lumbar region and the lower region near the cervical spine, as well as the vertebral bodies and their processes.
MRI of the thoracic spine provides an opportunity to diagnose:
- osteochondrosis;
- narrowing of the spinal canal, as well as the openings between the spinal nerves (stenosis);
- malignant neoplasms and their metastases in the thoracic region;
- acute circulatory disorders;
- anomalies in the development of this area of the spine;
- intervertebral hernia and protrusion of the spine;
- any injury in this area;
- demyelinating diseases (acute disseminated encephalomyelitis or multiple sclerosis);
- presence of vascular malformations in the spinal cord.
Research and contraindications
The examination does not require special preparations. Before it begins, it is necessary to remove all objects that contain metal. The procedure is carried out in a horizontal position. To obtain high-quality images, a person must be in a stationary state. If the patient is a child who cannot be motionless, then it is possible to use anesthesia, sleeping pills or a sedative to undergo an MRI scan of the lumbosacral spine. Contraindications are almost the same for all types of magnetic resonance imaging:
- electronic devices such aspatient's pacemaker;
- presence of foreign bodies with metal in the composition: implants, plates, pins, constructions for osteosynthesis and others;
- inadequate mental behavior;
- claustrophobia;
- pregnancy up to 12 weeks, as the effect of a magnetic field on the intrauterine development of the fetus has not yet been sufficiently studied;
- when a contrast agent is injected, an allergic reaction to it is added;
- Nursing mothers are prohibited from breastfeeding for 48 hours after the contrast procedure.
Where is the best place to get an MRI in Lublino?
To identify various pathological processes in any areas of the spine, vertebrae, spinal cord, soft tissues, MRI of the lumbosacral spine will help. There is a medical center in Lublino that offers to undergo this study using a modern high-quality magnetic resonance tomograph.
Professional staff of the center and the latest generation of equipment guarantee high accuracy and maximum comfort of the examination procedure.
Price for MRI
The volume of work performed, the use of contrast agent, the area of the scan area, additional services, the tasks assigned - all these factors affect the cost of an MRI. Prices for research in different areas may differ from each other. On average, an MRI of the lumbosacral zone of the spine without the use of a contrast agent costs between 4000-5000 rubles, and with contrast - about 9000 rubles. You can make an appointment with a medical center specialist for a more detailed consultation on this issue.
In conclusion
MRI of the lumbosacral spine is a painless and highly informative diagnostic method that has a number of advantages over other methods. It is absolutely harmless, because the patient is not exposed to radiation exposure. MRI has no analogues for diagnosing not only protrusions of the intervertebral discs, but also their hernias. Magnetic resonance imaging makes it possible to examine the spine simultaneously with soft tissues without the use of a contrast agent, unlike devices with X-ray diagnostic methods. Thoracic MRI is the most informative way to assess the condition of soft tissues, identify the location and size of neoplasms, and examine the cartilaginous surface of joints, tendons or muscles.
