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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used to detect potential abnormalities in the spine, including nerve compression, disc herniation, spinal cord compression, and inflammation. In cases such as spinal fractures, MRI is uniquely capable of distinguishing new from old fractures, as well as differentiating metastatic from osteoporotic fractures.
The MRI scan produces two-dimensional images of the human body’s anatomy using magnetic fields and a computer. Unlike other imaging methods, MRI is non-invasive and does not involve radiation. Compared to CT scans or standard X-rays, MRI provides highly detailed images, especially useful for examining soft tissue pathology.
Like modern CT scans, MRI can divide the body into the three anatomical planes:
- The coronal plane, which captures images from front to back like a frontal X-ray
- The sagittal plane, from left to right
- The axial plane, from head to toe
An MRI scan typically lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.
Equipment and Procedure
During the MRI, the patient lies on a bed that moves into a cylindrical scanner (the MRI machine). Surrounding this cylinder are three extremely powerful magnets. The quality of the MRI scan depends on the strength of these magnets, which today can reach up to 4 tesla. For patients who are uncomfortable in enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), open MRI scanners are available, though they produce slightly lower-quality images compared to standard closed scanners.
During the scan, patients wear headphones or listen to music to mask the loud sounds generated by the magnets. They may also use a blanket if they feel cold. A technician remains outside the scanning room at a computer station but monitors the patient and the images continuously. The patient can communicate with the technician via a microphone, and if desired, a companion may stay in the room during the procedure.
Preparing for an MRI Scan
Generally, no special preparation is needed for an MRI. Some patients may feel anxious about the scan, mostly due to claustrophobia. Fasting is not required unless a contrast agent is to be used. Contrast is typically used in spines that have previously undergone surgery. In such cases, preparation depends on whether the patient has an allergy to the contrast material.
Before the scan, the patient must remove all metal objects and wear a medical gown.
Some patients are not allowed to undergo an MRI scan. These include:
- Patients with pacemakers
- Those with aneurysm clips
- Some orthopedic or dental implants made of steel
- Patients who are significantly overweight
- Pregnant women, as the effects of MRI on the fetus are not well known
Χειρουργός Σπονδυλικής Στήλης
- Ο Χειρουργός Σπονδυλικής Στήλης/ Σκολίωσης Δρ. Ηλίας Χαρ. Παπαδόπουλος γεννήθηκε και μεγάλωσε στην Αθήνα. Αποφοίτησε με Άριστα από την Ιατρική Σχολή Αθηνών το 1994 και στη συνέχεια ειδικεύτηκε στην ορθοπαιδική, στην Α’ Ορθοπαιδική Κλινική του Πανεπιστημίου Αθηνών.
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