Lumbar MRI is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the lower back, specifically the lumbar spine, and its surrounding structures. Doctors perform this procedure to diagnose conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and lower back pain.
What Is a Lumbar MRI Scan?
The lumbar spine consists of five vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs that separate each vertebral body. The intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, allowing for a wide range of motion in the lower back.
However, as we age, these discs can become damaged, leading to conditions such as herniated discs or degenerative disc disease. These conditions can cause lower back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs.
Lumbar MRI is an important diagnostic tool that can help identify the cause of back pain and other related conditions. The procedure is safe, non-invasive, and provides detailed images of the lower back. This makes MRI an ideal imaging method for diagnosing lower back conditions.
Lumbar MRI Scan Considerations
Before performing the lumbar MRI, doctors will ask you to remove any metallic objects you may have on your body.
This includes removing small items such as jewelry, eyeglasses, and hearing aids. The MRI technologist may also ask you to change into a hospital gown.
If you have any medical conditions such as kidney problems, you should inform the technologist. Some contrast materials used during the diagnostic procedure can impact kidney function.
You should also inform the radiologist if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, or have any other medical conditions that may affect the results of the MRI. If you have any concerns or questions, it is important to discuss them with the technologist prior to the test.
Risks and Precautions
The lumbar MRI is generally considered a safe procedure with minimal risks. However, it is important to inform the technologist if you have any medical conditions or if you are pregnant. Certain precautions may need to be taken prior to the exam.
Additionally, MRI magnetic fields can interact with metal implants, such as pacemakers, aneurysm clips, and artificial joints. If you have any metal implants, the radiologist may advise against having an MRI or may recommend an alternative.
In rare cases, you may experience a mild allergic reaction to the MRI contrast used during the MRI. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, itching, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should inform the technologist immediately.
What to Expect During the Lumbar MRI Scan
The lumbar MRI procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. You will lie on your back during the MRI scan procedure.
Once the scan sequence begins, the machine will produce loud thumping and buzzing noises as it takes images of your back.
You will be provided hearing protection to reduce the noise and make you more comfortable during the test.
What Does a Lumbar MRI scan sound like? Click to watch from the MRIPETCTSOURCE YouTube Channel.
To enhance the images and make certain anatomical structures easier to see, doctors may use a contrast material. They will inject the contrast material into a vein in your arm or hand, which may cause you to feel a warm or flush sensation.
MRI contrast material is generally safe and does not have any serious side effects. In rare cases, patients may experience a mild allergic reaction.
After your lumbar MRI, you can resume your normal activities immediately.
After reviewing the test results, the radiologist will send a report to your doctor or healthcare provider. Your doctor will review the results and discuss them with you, along with recommendations for further treatment.
It is important to keep in mind that an MRI does not always provide a clear answer. Doctors may require additional tests or procedures to fully diagnose your condition. In some cases, they may recommend a follow-up MRI in several months to monitor the progression of your condition.
Key Takeaways
Lumbar MRI is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that provides detailed images of the lower back and its surrounding structures. Doctors use the procedure to diagnose a variety of conditions that can cause lower back pain and other symptoms. If you experience lower back pain or other symptoms, your doctor may recommend a lumbar MRI.
It is important to inform the radiologist of any medical conditions or allergies you have prior to the procedure. You should also inform the radiologist if you are pregnant or have any metal implants in your body.
After the procedure, you can resume your normal activities. A radiologist will review the test results and discuss them with your doctor.
Additional Resources
Click here to learn more about your MRI scan procedure.
You can also find more helpful articles in our free radiology resources library.
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