If you’re experiencing persistent neck pain, tingling in your arms, or even difficulty moving your head, your doctor might recommend a cervical spine MRI. While a cervical spine MRI might sound intimidating, it’s really a straightforward and non-invasive technique that helps your healthcare provider to better understand your current medical condition.
A cervical spine MRI helps detect issues like herniated discs, pinched nerves, spinal cord problems, arthritis, and injuries. In this article, we’ll show you how to:
- Prepare for your cervical spine MRI
- What to expect during your scan
- What happens after a cervical spine MRI.
Preparing for your cervical spine MRI scan
To best prepare for your cervical spine MRI, it helps to know what the scan involves. A cervical spine MRI uses strong magnets and radio waves to take detailed images of your neck and spine.
There are a few things you can do ahead of time to ensure your scan is as quick and easy as possible.
What should I expect before a cervical spine MRI appointment?
You should follow the specific instructions given to you by your healthcare provider regarding any dietary restrictions before your scan.
If contrast dye is used for your MRI, notify your doctor and your technologist at American Health Imaging of any allergies or kidney issues. Let your doctor and technologist know if you have had a reaction to contrast agents in the past, or if you have issues with kidney function.
What should I let my MRI technologist know before my scan?
In addition to letting your MRI technologist if you have any allergies, there are a few other things you can share. Notify your MRI technologist if you have any implants, pacemakers, or may be pregnant.
What if I experience claustrophobia?
If you’re claustrophobic, or concerned about being in the MRI machine, mention this to the technologist, who may be able to offers comfortable solutions during your appointment. You can also ask your doctor about open MRI options.
How should I dress for an MRI scan?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may need to change into a gown. Avoid metal items like jewelry, zippers, or watches. Since the cervical spine MRI uses strong magnets, metal can interfere with the MRI machine and impact the images of your spine.
Why do some cervical spine MRI scans use contrast dye?
Contrast dye is sometimes used during an MRI to highlight specific soft tissues and blood vessels, improving the clarity of images. Contrast can help your provider to distinguish between healthy tissue and inflamed tissue, as well as the presence of infection or abnormal growths.
An MRI with contrast can also reveal the extent and location of any abnormalities that are present, which will appear as brighter areas on the scan.
What to expect during your cervical spine MRI
Your cervical spine MRI is painless, safe, and non-invasive. Here’s what will happen during the scan:
Positioning for the Scan
You’ll lie on your back on a table that slides into the MRI machine. You will be positioned so that your head goes into the scanner first, and your legs may remain outside the scanner. A lightweight coil will be placed around your head and neck to help capture the finest details of your cervical spine.
The Importance of Staying Still
To capture clear images, it’s crucial to stay as still as possible. Movement can blur the pictures, making the results less clear. You may also be asked to hold your breath briefly during the scan.
Comfort Measures
The technologist will ensure your comfort, using cushions to stabilize your head and provide earplugs or headphones to block the loud noises of the machine. If you are claustrophobic, your technologist can help you relax by offering suggestions such as closing your eyes, focusing on your breath, or listening to music. Ask your doctor about options for sedation during your MRI.
Can I communicate with the technologist during my MRI?
Yes! During the MRI, your technologist will make sure you’re positioned comfortably. You will be able to ask questions before, during, and after the scan at any point.
Duration of the Scan
Most cervical spine MRIs take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether contrast is used.
After your cervical spine MRI scan
Once your cervical spine MRI is completed, you will likely have questions about next steps. These can vary depending on whether you were sedated for the scan, or whether your scan used contrast dye. Once your MRI is completed, here’s what to expect:
Post-Scan Instructions
After an MRI, you can resume your normal activities. If you had sedation, arrange for someone to drive you home. Follow any additional post-scan care instructions from your healthcare provider.
If Contrast Dye Was Used
You may need to rest briefly before leaving the clinic to ensure you have no negative reaction if contrast is used. Drink plenty of water to flush the contrast dye from your system. While side effects are rare, minor symptoms like itching or nausea may occur. Seek medical help if you experience more severe reactions.
Receiving Your Results
It typically takes about a week to receive your results. A sub-specialized radiologist will analyze your MRI and send a detailed report to your doctor. You can then discuss the findings and potential next steps in your treatment with your doctor.
What questions should I ask my healthcare provider about my results?
When you meet with your provider to discuss the results of your cervical spine MRI, consider asking:
- What do my MRI results show?
- Do I have any signs of nerve compression, disc problems, or arthritis?
- What is the next step in my treatment?
- Could my symptoms worsen over time?
- Are there lifestyle changes or exercises that can help my condition?
- Do I need a follow-up MRI?
Your healthcare provider will be able to give you all the information you need about your results, and if your provider recommends a treatment plan, you’ll have a chance to discuss your next steps.
Schedule Your Cervical Spine MRI Appointment with American Health Imaging
Reach out to us at American Health Imaging, and we’ll help you schedule an appointment at an imaging center near you, today.
We’re here to help you get the answers you need.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How do I get ready for a cervical spine MRI appointment?
A: You should follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider, like avoiding food or drink if required, and informing your technologist if you have any medical conditions or implants.
Q: How should I dress for an MRI scan?
A: Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or jewelry to avoid interference with the MRI machine.
Q: What should I let my MRI technologist know before my scan?
A: Inform your technologist about any medical conditions, implants, or allergies, especially if you may need contrast dye for the scan.
Q: Why is contrast dye used in some cervical spine MRIs?
A: Contrast dye enhances the visibility of tissues, helping detect conditions like inflammation or tumors.
Q: How will I be positioned for a cervical spine MRI scan?
A: You will likely lie on your back with your head positioned in a cushioned support to keep your neck still during the scan.
Q: Why is it important to stay still during an MRI scan?
A: Movement can blur the images, which may make it harder for your doctor and the sub-specialized radiologist reading the scan to accurately interpret the results.
Q: What will the MRI technologist do to ensure my comfort?
A: The technologist will explain the procedure, provide ear protection to minimize noise, and adjust your position for comfort before starting the scan.
Q: How long does a cervical spine MRI appointment take?
A: The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether contrast is used, and the complexity of the scan.