Spine MRI

See all Pictures & Images

How is the Test Performed?

Since MRI makes use of radio waves very close in frequency to those of ordinary FM radio stations, the scanner must be located within a specially shielded room to avoid outside interference. The patient will be asked to lie on a narrow table which slides into a large tunnel-like tube within the scanner. If contrast is to be administered, intravenous access will be placed, usually in a small vein of the hand or forearm. A technologist will operate the machine and observe you during the entire study from an adjacent room.

Several sets of images are usually required, each taking from 2 to 15 minutes. A complete scan may take up to one hour. Newer scanners with more powerful magnets utilizing updated software and advanced sequences may complete the process in less time.