MRI Neck Without Contrast

• What the scan examines
• Cervical vertebrae alignment
• Intervertebral discs, spinal cord
• Nerve roots, blood vessels and neck muscles
• Key differences: with vs without contrast
• Without contrast: no iodine injection, shorter exam time, safe for kidney-sensitive patients.
• With contrast: adds dye to highlight inflammation, tumours or infection but carries allergy and kidney risks.

• Vertebral alignment & marrow signal – checks for fractures or infection
• Disc height, bulge, herniation – pinpoints causes of pain or weakness
• Spinal cord & nerve root impingement – maps compression sites
• Soft-tissue masses / lymph nodes – screens for abscesses or tumours

• Accurate nerve compression mapping before physiotherapy or surgery
• Pre-surgical baseline imaging to plan minimally invasive approaches
• Monitor degenerative changes over months or years without extra radiation

Your physician will often order this scan if you have:

• Persistent neck pain or stiffness
• Numbness/tingling radiating to arms or hands
• Post-trauma clearance after whiplash or sports injury
• Arthritis follow-up to monitor degenerative changes

• Zero radiation, completely non-invasive
• Same-day appointments & digital report within 2 hrs
• Insurance & cashless approval – we handle paperwork for you

• Cervical spondylosis & disc herniation
• Spinal stenosis and ligament sprain
• Occult fractures, cord contusions

• Instructions
• Remove all metal—jewellery, belts, hairpins
• Fasting not required
• Prerequisites
• Bring prior X-ray or CT reports if available
• Best time
• Morning slots for shorter wait times
• Eligibility
• Adults, children >5 years, not suitable for pregnant women

1. Change into cotton gown (locker provided for valuables).
2. Lie supine; neck coil is gently placed around your head & shoulders.
3. 15-minute scan – you’ll hear rhythmic thumping; noise-cancelling earphones supplied.
4. Panic button in your hand—squeeze anytime to pause.
5. Done! Walk out and receive digital films + radiologist report within 2 hours.

• Declare any implants, tattoos with metallic ink, or claustrophobia history at booking.
• Sedation (light oral or IV) available on request; arrange a driver if you opt for sedation.

• Contra­indications
• Cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implants, certain aneurysm clips
• Limitations
• Small or subtle tumours, infections, or active inflammation may still require a contrast study for full evaluation.