MRI Dorsal Lumber Spine

What Is MRI Dorsal Lumbar Spine?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the dorsal (thoracic) and lumbar spine uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed cross-sectional images. It visualises:

• Vertebral bodies (T1–L5)
• Intervertebral discs
• Spinal cord and nerve roots
• Surrounding ligaments and muscles Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI uses no ionising radiation, making it safe for repeated use.

• Vertebral alignment – scoliosis, fractures
• Disc height & signal – dehydration, herniation
• Spinal cord & nerves – compression, swelling
• Soft tissues & ligaments – tears, inflammation

• Persistent lower or mid-back pain unresponsive to physiotherapy
• Radicular symptoms – tingling, “pins and needles”
• Post-trauma screening after accidents
• Monitoring chronic conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis lesions

Your doctor may recommend an MRI Dorsal Lumbar Spine if you have:

• Persistent back or leg pain lasting >6 weeks
• Numbness or weakness in legs
• History of trauma (fall, RTA)
• Suspected disc herniation, infection, or tumour monitoring
• Pre- or post-surgical assessment

• Zero radiation – safe for children and adults
• Early detection of small disc bulges or early stenosis
• Pre-surgical roadmap – surgeons plan precise interventions
• One-stop scan – evaluates bone, disc, nerve, and soft tissue simultaneously

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
• Spinal tumours or infections
• Cauda equina syndrome (medical emergency)

Pre-Requisites

• Fasting: Not required for plain MRI; 4-hour fast if contrast is used.
• Clothing: Wear metal-free attire or change into our gown.
• Metal screening: Remove jewellery, hearing aids, and credit cards.

Best Time to Schedule

Morning slots reduce waiting time and allow same-day reporting via email or patient portal.

Eligibility

• Pregnancy: Notify us; scan deferred in first trimester.
• Pacemaker: Most modern devices are MRI-compatible; bring device card.

Procedure Snapshot

1. Lie supine on the MRI table.
2. Coil placed over lower back; earplugs provided.
3. Scan lasts 20–30 minutes; remain still.
4. Contrast injection (if required) takes an extra 5 minutes.

Cautions

• Inform staff of claustrophobia—sedation or open MRI options available.
• Kidney function test (eGFR) required before contrast if >60 years or diabetic.

• Minimal risk: No radiation; contrast dye rarely causes allergies.
• Limitations: Not suitable for patients with certain pacemakers, cochlear implants, or severe claustrophobia (open MRI options available).
• Pregnancy: Generally avoided in first trimester unless essential.