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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine — is a modern diagnostic method that allows a detailed assessment of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, nerve structures, and surrounding tissues. The examination helps determine the cause of back pain, sensory disturbances, limited mobility, and other symptoms that may be associated with spinal pathology.
At the «Oxford Medical» medical center, MRI examination of the spine is performed on a modern GE SIGNA Champion scanner. The equipment is fitted with artificial intelligence technologies that enhance image clarity and scanning stability, which makes it possible to obtain informative examination results.
You can book an appointment to get an MRI of the spine in Kyiv at the «Oxford Medical» clinic at a convenient time for you by phone or by ordering a callback.
Depending on the anatomical area that requires examination, the following are distinguished:
Allows assessment of the intervertebral discs, spinal cord, and nerve roots in the neck area. It is prescribed for neck pain, dizziness, headache, numbness, or weakness in the arms.
Used to assess the middle section of the spine. It is recommended for pain between the shoulder blades, a feeling of stiffness, suspicion of hernias, protrusions, or spinal cord damage.
The most common type of examination. It makes it possible to identify the causes of lower back pain, radiation to the legs, numbness or sensory disturbances, as well as to assess the condition of the nerve structures.
Performed for pain in the sacral or coccygeal area, after injuries, or when local pathological processes are suspected.
If the symptoms do not have a clear localization or there is suspicion of involvement of several sections, the examination may cover several areas at once. In such cases, an extended MRI examination of the spine is performed, in particular an MRI of three sections of the spine or an MRI of the entire spine, in order to obtain a complete clinical picture.
In most cases, a standard examination without contrast is sufficient. MRI of the spine with contrast is prescribed according to indications when it is necessary to assess the tumor process more accurately, determine its boundaries and extent, establish the activity of inflammation, or clarify the nature of postoperative changes. The contrast agent accumulates in areas with increased blood supply or inflammatory activity, which makes it possible to characterize the pathological process more clearly.
During the examination, layered images are obtained that make it possible to see changes both in the bony structures and in the soft tissues.
The examination makes it possible to detect:
Magnetic resonance imaging makes it possible to obtain detailed information about the structure of the tissues and the degree of their involvement in the pathological process.
Magnetic resonance imaging is prescribed when it is necessary to determine
the cause of back pain or other neurological symptoms.
The examination is recommended in the case of:
prolonged or pronounced pain in the neck, thoracic, or lumbar region;
pain that radiates to the arm or leg;
numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs;
limited mobility in the spine area;
consequences of spinal injuries;
suspicion of an intervertebral disc hernia;
suspicion of an inflammatory or tumor process;
the need for preparation for surgery or monitoring after treatment.
Magnetic resonance imaging does not involve radiation exposure; however, the examination is performed in a strong magnetic field, so before the examination the presence of implants or metal structures in the body must be clarified.
The examination is not performed if a pacemaker, an implanted defibrillator, or other electronic devices incompatible with MRI are present. Metal implants or foreign metal fragments located in critically important areas may also be a contraindication.
A limitation for performing the examination may be the first trimester of pregnancy, pronounced claustrophobia, or a condition in which it is difficult for the patient to remain motionless during scanning.
If an MRI of the spine with contrast enhancement is planned, the condition of the kidneys and possible allergic reactions in the medical history are additionally taken into account. The contrast agent is not used in severe renal insufficiency or acute impairment of kidney function, since it is eliminated from the body specifically through the kidneys. A confirmed allergic reaction to gadolinium-containing agents in the past is also a contraindication. During pregnancy, contrast is used only under strict indications after evaluating the ratio of benefit to possible risks.
Complex preparation for standard magnetic resonance imaging is not required.
Before the examination, you should:
When the examination is performed without contrast enhancement, there are no dietary restrictions — you can eat as usual.
If an examination with contrast is planned, it is recommended to refrain from eating for 4–6 hours before the procedure, while water may be consumed in moderate amounts. Before the administration of the contrast agent, if necessary, a blood test for creatinine with calculation of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) may be prescribed to assess kidney function and confirm the safety of contrast administration.
Before the examination begins, the patient lies down on the movable table of the tomograph, which smoothly moves inside the machine. During the scan, it is important to remain still, since this affects the clarity of the images.
The examination is performed in stages: the machine creates a series of layered images, which allow a detailed assessment of the structures of the spine. At certain moments, the patient may be asked to briefly hold their breath to obtain more accurate images.
If magnetic resonance imaging with contrast is performed, standard scanning is carried out first, after which a contrast agent is administered intravenously and the examination is continued. This makes it possible to assess the nature of the changes and their extent more accurately.
The duration of the procedure depends on the scope of the examination and usually is 15–30 minutes, and when contrast is used it may increase to 30–40 minutes.
After the examination is completed, the obtained images are analyzed by a radiologist and a written report is prepared.
The cost of the examination depends on the scope of the study — one section or several areas of the spine — as well as on the need to use a contrast agent. An examination with contrast enhancement is more extensive, so its price may be higher.
You can find the current prices for medical services here. At the Oxford Medical clinic, special offers are regularly available; in particular, sometimes it is possible to get an MRI of the spine as part of a promotion at a discounted price. You can find the current terms on the “Promotions” page.
To book an examination, call our contact center or leave a request for a callback at a time convenient for you.
You can undergo an MRI of the spine in Kyiv at the private Oxford Medical clinic at the following address: 7A Parkovo-Syretska St., Kyiv (Shevchenkivskyi district). The medical center is located near the Dorohozhychi metro station, which is convenient both for patients who use public transport and for car owners — there is a large free parking area near the clinic.
The accuracy of the examination largely depends on the class of equipment. A tomograph with a magnetic field strength of 1.5 Tesla and higher is optimal — it provides high detail for an accurate assessment of the intervertebral discs, nerves, and spinal cord.
At the Oxford Medical clinic, the examination is performed on a modern GE SIGNA Champion tomograph with AI Recon DL artificial intelligence technology. This makes it possible to obtain clearer images, reduce the noise level, and increase the informativeness of the examination.
Yes, if necessary, an MRI of all sections of the spine can be performed during a single examination. This makes it possible to assess the cervical, thoracic, and lumbosacral sections and obtain a complete picture of the condition of the spine. This approach is advisable if the pain spreads or does not have a clear localization, as well as when complex changes are suspected.
The duration of the examination depends on the scope of the examination. An examination of one section usually takes 15–20 minutes. If several sections are examined or contrast is used, the procedure may last 30–40 minutes or longer.
The diagnostic results do not have a fixed period of validity, since they reflect the condition of the spine at the time of the examination. If the symptoms do not change, the report may remain relevant for a long time. If new complaints appear or changes in well-being occur, a repeat examination is recommended to assess the dynamics.
MRI and CT are used for different tasks. MRI is better suited for assessing the intervertebral discs, nerves, and spinal cord, that is, soft tissues. CT is more informative for assessing bone structures and is often used in cases of injuries. The choice of method depends on the symptoms and the clinical situation.
Yes, menstruation is not a contraindication to magnetic resonance imaging. The examination can be performed on any day of the cycle. If your condition is normal, there is no need to postpone the examination.
Magnetic resonance imaging does not involve radiation exposure, so it can be performed as many times as needed according to medical indications. The frequency of examinations is determined individually depending on the diagnosis, the course of the disease, and the need to monitor treatment.
Before a standard examination without contrast, there are no dietary restrictions. If an examination with contrast enhancement is planned, it is usually recommended to refrain from eating for 4–6 hours before the procedure in order to reduce the risk of discomfort.
Radiography allows the assessment of bone structures — the shape of the vertebrae, their position, and the presence of fractures or deformities. At the same time, a spine X-ray does not provide information about the intervertebral discs, nerve roots, and spinal cord.
MRI is a more informative method, since it allows a detailed assessment of soft tissues and makes it possible to detect hernias, protrusions, inflammatory changes, and other causes of pain.
The possibility of performing the examination depends on the type of implant. Most modern structures are compatible with the magnetic field, but before the examination it is necessary to report their presence. In each case, the decision is made individually, taking into account the type of implant and its characteristics.
You do not need to undress completely. The main requirement is the absence of metal elements in clothing and accessories, since they may affect the quality of the images and the safety of the examination. It is enough to choose comfortable clothing without metal details or remove such elements before the procedure.
Modern tomograph. The examination is performed on the GE SIGNA Champion machine, which provides high image detail and accurate visualization of the structures of the spine.
Artificial intelligence technologies. The AI Recon DL system improves image clarity, reduces noise, and increases the stability of scanning quality, which makes the results more informative.
Experienced radiologists. The images are analyzed by specialists with practical experience in radiation diagnostics, which ensures a correct and well-grounded report.
Comfortable conditions. The examination is performed by prior appointment at a time convenient for the patient without long waiting.
Comprehensive approach. Based on the results of the examination, it is possible to receive a consultation with a relevant specialist to determine the further treatment strategy.
Convenient location. The clinic is located near the Dorohozhychi metro station, which makes it easy to get there both by public transport and by car.
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