Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Spine

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), Spine, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance of the Spine, Spinal MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Results

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of the spine.

The radiologist may discuss initial results of the MRI with you right after the test. Complete results are usually ready for your doctor in 1 to 2 days.

An MRI can sometimes find a problem in a tissue or organ even when the size and shape of the tissue or organ looks normal.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine

Normal:	The bones of the spine, discs, and nerves are normal.
	No tumors, inflammation, or areas of nerve damage in the spine are present.
	No disease or bone loss in the spine (vertebrae) is present.
	No ruptured discs are present. There are no structures pressing on a nerve.
	No structural problems that have been present from birth (congenital problems) are found.
Abnormal:	Tumors, inflammation, or areas of nerve damage in the spine are present. A disease of the spinal cord, such as multiple sclerosis, is found.
	Narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) is present.
	Broken bones or bone loss in the spine caused by injury or disease, such as arthritis, is found.
	One or more discs of the spine are bulging or ruptured or pressing on a nerve. See a picture of a herniated disc .
	A condition that has been present from birth (congenital condition) is found in the spine or the vertebrae.

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Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: June 12, 2009
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology
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