Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the SpineTest Overview
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test
that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of
the
spine. In many cases MRI gives different information
about structures in the body than can be seen with an
X-ray,
ultrasound, or
computed tomography (CT) scan. MRI also may show
problems that cannot be seen with other imaging methods. For an
MRI test, your body is placed inside a special machine that contains a strong
magnet. Pictures from an MRI scan are digital images that can be saved and
stored on a computer for further study. The images also can be reviewed
remotely, such as in a clinic or an operating room. In some cases, a
contrast material may be used during the MRI scan to
show certain structures more clearly. The MRI can find changes
from the normal in the spine and in other tissues. It also can find problems
such as infection or a tumor. MRI can look at the spine in the neck (cervical
spine), upper back (thoracic spine), or lower back (lumbosacral spine). The
entire spine can be seen in one series of pictures to find a tumor. More
detailed pictures of one area may be taken. See
MRI pictures of the lumbar spine  . MRI may be used to check low
back problems. For more information, see:  Should I have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan for low back pain?
See pictures of a
standard MRI machine and an
open MRI machine .
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