What does MRI of spine with contrast show?

Small tumors, which may not be visible on X-ray or CT Scan, may be detected by MRI. The contrast helps detect even the smallest tumors, and it can give your doctor more clarity regarding the location and size of a tumor and which organs or tissues are involved.

Do you need contrast for spine MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine uses radio waves, a magnetic field and a computer. It creates clear, detailed pictures of the spine and surrounding tissues. MRI does not use radiation and may require an injection of gadolinium contrast material.

Why would a doctor order an MRI with contrast?

MRI with contrast should be ordered when a more detailed view of organ structure and function is needed; a detailed view of inflammation, analysis or diagnosis of a reported tumor, or to analyze blood flow and supply.

Why would a doctor order an MRI without contrast?

Even without the intravenous contrast, MRI can detect pathology in most organs and in some cases the pathology is made less visible on a contrast MRI than a non-contrast scan. For example, non-contrast scans provide greater images of blood vessel activity to detect aneurysms and blocked blood vessels.

Does your whole body go in for a spine MRI?

An MRI can be performed on any part of your body. A lumbar MRI specifically examines the lumbar section of your spine — the region where back problems commonly originate.

Can sciatica show up on MRI?

An MRI of the lumbar spine will show many causes of low back pain and sciatica, including disc herniations, facet arthritis, and lumbar spinal stenosis. Digital x-rays and CT scans may also be used to diagnose the cause of sciatica.

Will an MRI show arthritis?

MRI is the most effective way to diagnose problems within any joint and the image sensitivity makes it the most accurate imaging tool available in detecting arthritis and other inflammatory changes. MRI is also a key diagnostic tool when patients have lower back pain, radiating pain or hip/groin pain.

Why do MRI with or without contrast?

An MRI with contrast may reduce the likelihood of needing to repeat the test. MRIs without contrast are often used to get an accurate picture of the brain or spinal cord. A MRI scan of the brain, without contrast. An MRI with contrast may help doctors measure a tumor to determine if treatments are working properly.

What are side effects of contrast MRI?

The most common MRI side effects are those related to lying in a small space for a long period of time and may include dizziness, backaches, and fatigue. More serious side effects may occur as a reaction to any contrast medium used for the MRI.

What does with contrast mean MRI?

Contrast is the term used to describe special dyes that can be used in MRI tests. An MRI with contrast allows doctors to see enhanced pictures of specific areas. The type of contrast that is used varies depending on what a doctor is trying to get images of and diagnose.

What to expect from a MRI?

What to Expect During an MRI Scan . MRI scans can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. Before the scan begins, you’ll lay on a bed attached to the MRI machine, with your head on a headrest and your arms by your sides. The MRI technician will likely provide you with earplugs, as the MRI scan produces loud knocking noises when running.