Check-up

Cervical Spine Mri:I'm going for an MRI of my cervical spine and would like to know what this will involve.

A cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a method of creating detailed pictures of the part of the spine that runs through the neck area. The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae and eight pairs of spinal nerves and the MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to take detailed images of the affected area. One test can produce hundreds of images that can be stored on a computer or printed on film.

For the scan you will be asked to lie on your back on a narrow table, which slides into the middle of the MRI machine. Several sets of images are usually needed, each taking two to 15 minutes. Depending on the type of equipment, the exam may take an hour or longer. Some MRI tests require a special contrast dye to be given before the test through a vein in your hand or forearm. The dye helps the radiologist see certain areas more clearly.

Why was I asked if I had a pacemaker or worked with metals?

The strong magnetic fields created during an MRI can interfere with certain implants, particularly pacemakers and any other metals in the body. Those fitted with a cardiac pacemaker cannot have an MRI and should not enter an MRI area. Metallic objects in the body such as aneurysm clips, inner ear implants, recently placed artificial joints, artificial heart valves and some older types of vascular stents can also interfere with the test. Those who have worked with metals which may have inadvertently entered the eye will require a skull X-ray to check for metal in the eyes before the test.

I've heard MRI scanners can be a bit claustrophobic.

Although an MRI exam is non-invasive and painless, some people may become anxious inside the confined space in the scanner.

If you have difficulty lying still or suffer from claustrophobia, talk to your doctor about the possibility of taking a mild sedative before the test. The machine produces loud thumping and humming noises when turned on, but ear plugs can help reduce the noise. An intercom in the room allows you to speak to the person operating the scanner at any time for reassurance. There is no recovery time required after an MRI scan unless you have been given sedation.