Read our complete patient guide for the MRI lumbar spine scan. Learn about the procedure, preparation, and how it helps diagnose lower back pain effectively.
Overview
The Lower Back (Lumbar) is extremely important to both the structure and function of the body. The cause of the problem may be an injury, disk problems, arthritis, nerve compression or may simply be a part of the aging process. If the lower back pain is ongoing and the leg experiences numbness, weakness or a problem with walking, it is possible that there is a problem with the spine. If your doctor thinks this is the case, he or she may recommend an MRI Lumbar Spine to get detailed information about the lower spine and to ascertain the exact cause of your symptoms. The scan is a crucial part in correctly diagnosing and planning the treatment. The cost of MRI Lumbar Spine is generally in the range of INR 4,000 to INR 9,000 with the pricing depending on the place of the MRI scan, the imaging center and the type of MRI that is performed.
What Is an MRI Lumbar Spine?
MRI Lumbar Spine is a technique which uses powerful magnets and radio frequency waves to generate detailed cross section images of the lower spine, without the use of X rays or other type of radiation. MRIs are far superior to the normal X rays in providing images of soft tissues like discs, ligaments, muscles and nerve roots, the best investigation to diagnose spinal disorders.
Why Is an MRI Lumbar Spine Performed?
Doctors may recommend this scan for:
o Chronic lower back pain
o Sciatica
o Suspected disc prolapse
o Numbness or weakness in the legs
o Spinal injuries
o Degenerative spine disorders
o Spinal infections
o Tumours
o Congenital spinal abnormalities
o Surgical planning or follow up
Which is diagnosed by the MRI of Lumbar Spine?
A slipped disc, or one which has slipped out of its normal position and is bulging.
What Conditions Can MRI Lumbar Spine Detect?
Degenerative Spine Disease
A scan will reveal age related changes such as thickening of ligaments, arthritis, loss of disk height and deterioration of the disk.
Spinal Canal Narrowing
MRI might be helpful for diagnosing spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) and if the spinal canal narrows, this can narrow the nerves as well.
Infections and Tumours
The examination will help to identify if there is any disc and/or the vertebrae infection present and whether there is any growth in the lower back, non-cancerous or cancerous.
How to Prepare for an MRI Lumbar Spine?
Patients are generally advised to:
o Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
o Remove jewelry, watches and other pieces of metal.
o Notify the radiology department of patient's presence of a pacemaker or other medical devices.
o Tell the doctor if they are pregnant.
o Follow special instructions if a contrast MRI has been recommended..
What Happens During the Procedure?
The patient is sitting on the MRI table and patient's lower back is in the correct position for the MRI procedure. This table then is taken to the MRI and a set of images are collected at various angles. The best picture will only be achieved if it isn't moved during the scan. Will take approximately 25-40 minutes.
Is the Procedure Painful?
MRI Lumbar Spine is without pain. Being in the scanner is not painful, but may be slightly uncomfortable or anxiety provoking.
What are the benefits of MRI Lumbar Spine?
o Detailed images of spinal structures.
o No exposure to radiation.
o Early detection of spinal disorders.
o Accurate diagnosis
o Better treatment planning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is MRI Lumbar Spine safe?
Yes. MRI is a safe imaging technique, since it does not employ any kind of ionizing radiation.
How much time will it takes?
The duration of the MRI Lumbar Spine depends on how long it takes, but can range from 25 to 40 minutes.
Can MRI diagnose a slipped disc?
Yes. MRI is one of the most accurate tests to diagnose a slipped disc or nerve compression, or any other issue with the lower spine (lumbar spine).
Can I return to normal activities after the scan?
Yes. If no contraindications are present, the patient can be advised to resume his/her normal activities soon after the examination, by a doctor.
