MRI Thoracic Spine - Overview & Technique

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. MR imaging uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, printed or copied to CD. MRI does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays). Detailed MR images allow physicians to better evaluate various parts of the body and certain diseases that may not be assessed adequately with other imaging methods such as x-ray, ultrasound or computed tomography (also called CT or CAT scanning). An MRI of the spine shows the anatomy of the vertebrae that make up the spine, as well as the disks, spinal cord and the spaces between the vertebrae through which nerves pass. Currently, MRI is the most sensitive imaging test of the spine in routine clinical practice. If you've injured your back or have chronic back pain, your doctor will probably first order an x-ray. After an x-ray, an MRI may be needed to evaluate the internal structures of the thoracic spine.

MRI Thoratic Spine- Alternative Names and Explanations

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Thoracic Spine, Thoracic Spine MRI, Thoracic Spine MR Imaging, MRI Thoracic Spine w/o contrast CPT code 72146, MRI Thoracic Spine with & w/o contrast CPT code 72157

MRI of the Thoracic Spine - Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Tests

• MRI is a noninvasive imaging technique that does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation.
• MR images of the spine are clearer and more detailed than with other imaging methods. This detail makes MRI an invaluable tool in early diagnosis and evaluation of many spinal conditions, including tumors.
• MRI has proven valuable in diagnosing a broad range of conditions, including but not limited to congenital conditions, chronic spinal cord diseases (such as multiple sclerosis), bone abnormalities (e.g., fracture), disk conditions (e.g., herniated disk), vascular anomalies and tumors.
• MRI enables the discovery of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone with other imaging methods.
• The contrast material used in MRI exams is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based materials used for conventional x-rays and CT scanning.
• MRI demonstrates abnormalities, injuries and diseases in the spinal region that may not be visualized with other imaging methods.
• MRI is very useful for evaluating spinal injuries It is especially helpful for diagnosing or ruling out acute compression of the spinal cord when clinical examination shows muscle weakness or paralysis.
• MRI is able to detect subtle changes in the vertebral column that may be an early stage of infection or tumor. The procedure is better than CT scanning for evaluating tumors, abscesses and other soft tissue masses near the spinal cord.

MRI Thoracic Spine - Common Positive Findings

• visualize anatomical variations and diseased tissue in the spine.
• help plan surgeries on the spine such as decompression of a pinched nerve or spinal fusion.
• monitor changes in the spine after an operation, such as scarring or infection.
• guide the injection of steroids to relieve spinal pain.
• assess the disks - bulging, degenerated or herniated intervertebral disk—a frequent cause of severe lower back pain and sciatica.
• evaluate compressed (or pinched) and inflamed nerves.
• explore possible causes in patients with back pain (compression fracture for example).
• image spinal infection or tumors that arise in, or have spread to, the spine.
• assess children with daytime wetting and an inability to fully empty the bladder.

MRI of the Thoracic Spine - Images

Thoracic Spine MRI - References, Links, and Additional Information

Schedule Your Thoracic Spine MRI Today! 

• If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

• If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

• If you are in search of other things, we're surprisingly resourceful!  Call us 1-800-626-8315 or contact us via our contact form.

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• thoracic spine MRI information including overview, technique, alternatives, benefits, and common findings. Schedule an MRI of the thoracic spine in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, or Glendale.
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