Cervical spine MRI

Neck pain, limited mobility, dizziness, or numbness in the arms are often associated with changes in the cervical spine. Such symptoms may occur due to disorders in the intervertebral discs, compression of the nerve roots, or other pathological processes that require accurate diagnosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine allows a detailed assessment of the condition of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, and nerve structures without radiation exposure. At the Oxford Medical clinic, the examination is performed using a modern GE SIGNA Champion tomograph. The use of AI Recon DL artificial intelligence technology increases image clarity and helps detect even minor changes that may be insufficiently noticeable during other examination methods.

During the examination, detailed images of the cervical spine are formed, which allow assessing not only the bony structures, but also the soft tissues — intervertebral discs, the spinal cord, nerve roots, and ligaments.

MRI helps detect:

• protrusions and herniations of the intervertebral discs and the degree of their impact on the nerve structures;
• compression of the nerve roots, which may cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms;
• narrowing of the spinal canal and its impact on the spinal cord;
• degenerative changes of the spine, in particular spondylosis;
• inflammatory processes in the tissues;
• neoplasms and their spread;
• consequences of injuries or surgical interventions.

Separately, MRI allows assessing the condition of the spinal cord, which is important when such symptoms as dizziness, impaired coordination, or impaired sensitivity appear.

The examination also makes it possible to understand whether the symptoms are associated specifically with the cervical spine, and whether the detected changes affect the nerve structures. This helps choose the correct treatment tactics and avoid unnecessary procedures.

In some cases, if the symptoms spread or have a mixed nature, the examination may be supplemented by other methods, in particular MRI of the thoracic spine, in order to obtain a more complete picture.

MRI of the cervical spine is not associated with X-ray radiation and is considered a safe diagnostic method. However, due to the use of a powerful magnetic field, it is important to report the presence of any implants or metal structures in the body before the examination.

The procedure is not performed in patients with pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, and other electronic devices that may react to the magnetic field. The presence of metal elements in the body is also a limitation if their compatibility with MRI has not been confirmed.

In some cases, the decision to conduct the examination is made individually. These include the first trimester of pregnancy, pronounced claustrophobia, or conditions in which it is difficult to remain motionless during the procedure. In such cases, the doctor assesses the appropriateness of the examination and the possibility of carrying it out.

If MRI with contrast is planned, kidney function is assessed in advance and possible allergic reactions are taken into account. The use of contrast is limited in cases of pronounced impairment of kidney function, as well as in the presence of allergic reactions to contrast agents.

Before MRI of the cervical spine, special preparation is usually not required. It is only important to take into account a few simple points that will help conduct the examination safely and obtain high-quality images.

You should come to the procedure in comfortable clothing without metal elements, and before the examination begins, you need to remove jewelry, watches, and other accessories. If there are implants or installed metal structures in the body, it is mandatory to inform the specialist about this.

If a study with contrast enhancement is planned, it is recommended not to eat for 4–6 hours before the procedure. Also, before administering the contrast, kidney function is sometimes checked — for this, a blood test for creatinine may be prescribed.

During the examination, the patient lies on a special tomograph table, which moves inside the machine. The head and neck are fixed in a comfortable position to minimize movements and ensure image clarity.

The scanning is carried out step by step: a series of detailed images is performed, allowing the assessment of the condition of the cervical spine and the surrounding structures. During the examination, it is important to remain motionless, since even minor movements can affect the quality of the results.

If it is necessary to perform MRI with contrast enhancement, standard scanning is first performed, after which a contrast agent is administered intravenously and the examination is continued. This helps to determine more accurately the nature of the changes, their boundaries, and prevalence.

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 images are analyzed by a radiologist, who prepares a written report.

The price of MRI of the cervical spine depends on the scope of the examination and the need to use a contrast agent. A study with contrast enhancement is more extensive, so its cost may be higher.

You can ознакомиться with the current prices for medical services here. You can book an MRI by phone or by ordering a callback at a time convenient for you.