About MRI Scan of Lumbosacral Spine:
MRI of the lumbosacral spine is a test in which MRI of only the lumbosacral spine is done. Through this test, detailed images of the lumbar region (lower part of the spine), the sacrum (the base of the spine) and the coccyx (tailbone) are produced, so that any abnormality present in these parts can be easily detected. can go.
Unlike X-ray and CT scan machines, MRI does not use radiation. It uses large magnets, radio waves, and a computer to produce images of the body's internal structures. During the scan, magnets and radio waves align and re-align the body's protons (parts of atoms) in a special way. The computer reads the whole process and produces images of the scanned parts.
In some cases, contrast dye is used during an MRI scan. Tell me, this dye is used only so that the photo can be more clear, but it is not needed in cases where the diagnosis is possible easily from the photo. In most cases, this dye is injected into the body through an injection . When this dye reaches the body it binds to the tissues and helps in providing clear images.
Why is lumbosacral spine MRI done?
The doctor may suggest for lumbosacral spine MRI if you are going through the following conditions:
Pelvic pain or low back pain that does not improve with treatment.
leg numbness or weakness that gets worse over time
a birth defect in the lower spine
back pain and fever
inability to pass urine or problems controlling urine
multiple sclerosis
disc herniation, damage to the tissues of the lower spine
lower spinal cord injury
Family history related to cancer
Lumbosacral spine MRI with contrast dye is specifically performed to rule out the following conditions:
To differentiate between the causes of low back pain
To see the roots of nerves in viral or inflammatory conditions
to detect tumors
Who cannot have a lumbosacral spine MRI?
This test is very safe for most people. However, it is not recommended in the following situations.
Metal Implant:
Metal Implant: If you have had a metal implant, then definitely tell the doctor about it, but having a metal implant does not mean that you cannot get this test done . The final decision in this regard is of the medical staff, they can take a decision according to the situation.
Tattoo:
Tattoo: Most of the tattoos are safe, but there are some such tattoos, whose ink is used in micro metals. Since magnets are used in MRI, these tiny metal particles can cause damage to the machine.
Preparation before Lumbosacral Spine MRI:
Typically, you should not eat or drink anything for four to six hours before the scheduled time of the procedure. If you have a fear of closed spaces ( claustrophobia ), consult a radiologist or doctor , who can give you sedative drugs or anesthesia , which can help relieve anxiety . Sedative drugs are prescription drugs that slow down your brain activity. Apart from this, do inform the doctor in the following situations as well:
brain aneurysm (using metal clips to stop blood flow in an aneurysm)
Pacemaker or heart defibrillator (a small device implanted inside the chest to help control the heartbeat)
artificial heart valve
inner ear implant
newly fitted artificial joint
Vascular stent (use of a hollow mesh tube to permanently support the walls of a blood vessel and prevent it from re-closing)
kidney disease / dialysis
How is lumbosacral spine MRI performed?
The following steps are generally followed in an MRI scan:
The radiography staff will ask you to remove all metal objects such as watches, jewellery, keys etc before taking you to the scanning room.
They may also give you a gown to wear.
You will then lie on the scanner's thin table, which will slowly move into the large cylindrical tube of the MRI machine.
If a contrast dye is to be used for the procedure, it will be injected into the body through an injection prior to the test. Using this, more clear images can be seen.
This test can last for 30-60 minutes or more.
What will it feel like to have a lumbosacral spine MRI?
An MRI is a painless procedure, but some people may find the scanning table to be stiff and cold. In such cases, you may ask the radiologist for a pillow or blanket. The machine can be loud during the process, so you can ask for earplugs to reduce the noise.
What do the results of lumbosacral spine MRI mean?
The MRI images are interpreted by the radiologist, after which they send a detailed report to the doctor. Then, the doctor will discuss the results. If they see abnormal results, the following conditions may be the cause:
spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal column)
Lumbar radiculopathy (herniated or slipped disc)
Spondylitis (abnormal wear and tear of the spinal cord and cartilage)
loss due to aging
bone infection
Osteoporosis , which can lead to low back fractures
spinal cord injury
Syringomyelia (formation of a fluid-filled cyst inside the spinal cord)
ankylosing spondylitis (inflammation of the joints that mainly affects the spine)
cauda equine syndrome (damage to a group of nerves that run down the spinal cord)
discitis (inflammation of the disc)
tumor in the spine
infection of the joint between the sacrum and the hip bone
Sacral meningeal cyst (fluid-filled sac that affects the nerves of the sacral region)
sacral fracture
sacral fatigue stress fracture
sacral tumor
Risks and Benefits of Lumbosacral Spine MRI:
Lumbosacral spine MRI is a safe scanning procedure. However, it can also have some complications which are as follows:
In rare cases, an allergy to the contrast dye injected before the test
Interruption of pacemaker and other implants by scanner
What happens after a lumbosacral spine MRI?
If sedative drugs were given for the test, you may need to rest until the effects have completely worn off. That's why it is advised not to drive or do any other risky work for some time after the test.
If you were injected with a contrast dye during the procedure, there may be swelling, itching , rash at that site. In some cases, you may need to be monitored for side effects such as difficulty breathing . Let the doctor know if you notice any redness or swelling at the injection site as this could be a sign of infection.
Other tests that can be done with a Lumbosacral Spine MRI?
For accurate diagnosis, the following tests may be suggested along with this test:
Electromyography (measuring the response of muscles in response to stimulation of the nerve of the muscles)
Nerve conduction velocity (a test used to assess nerve damage)