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Spine Services FAQ
Who can order MRI of the spine?
How do I schedule a MRI of the spine?
Why do physicians order MRI of the spine?
How should I prepare for this diagnostic examination?
What alternatives are there to having MRI of the spine if I am claustrophobic?
Why does the MRI equipment make a loud noise?
What does MRI equipment look like?
Who will perform the procedure?
How is the procedure performed?
What should I expect during and after the procedure?
Who interprets the examination?
How will I get the results of this diagnostic examination?
Are there any risks to having MRI of the spine?
Is St. Paul Radiology accredited to provide MRI of the spine?
Answers
Q: Who can order MRI of the spine?
The Radiologist and the patient’s Primary Care Physician work as partners. After evaluating your symptoms and physical exam findings, the Primary care Physicians will order the radiology exam most appropriate to assist in diagnosis. The Radiologist will set specifications for the exam, interpret (or “read”) the imaging study, and send a report to the Primary Care Physician. If the Radiologist identifies a disease that requires emergency treatment, they will contact the Physician immediately. This close relationship between the Radiologist and Primary Care Physician promotes the best possible patient care.
Q: How do I schedule a MRI of the spine?
Typically, a nurse from St. Paul Radiology will call the patient to schedule an appointment once a referral is received from another doctor such as the patient’s Primary Care Physician. You may also call 651.632.5700 to schedule an appointment.
Q: What is the MRI of the spine?
An MRI is a noninvasive medical test that uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses, and a computer to produce detailed pictures. 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.
Q: Why do physicians order MRI of the spine?
There are several reasons that physicians order an MRI, including:
- visualizing anatomical variations and diseased tissue
- helping to plan surgeries
- monitoring changes in the spine after an operation, such as scarring or infection
- guiding the injection of steroids to relieve spinal pain
- assessing the disks (bulging, degenerated or herniated disks)
- evaluating compressed (or pinched) and inflamed nerves
- exploring possible causes in patients with back pain
- imaging spinal infection or tumors
Q: How should I prepare for this diagnostic examination?
Unless you are told otherwise, you may follow your regular daily routine and take medications as usual. Please inform the staff if there is any possibility of pregnancy at the time of scheduling your appointment.
Q: What alternatives are there to having MRI of the spine if I am claustrophobic?
Patients with claustrophobia may request a mild sedative for an MRI. St. Paul Radiology also has Open MRI technology. Open MRI is a very patient-friendly procedure that is quieter and more comfortable for patients than a closed MRI.
Q: Why does the MRI equipment make a loud noise?
The way an MRI works is by creating a super-powered electromagnet that resonates at specific frequencies. Changing the magnetic field causes a buildup of energy, and lot of the energy is released as soundwaves. What does it sound like? MRI’s make tapping, thumping, buzzing, and clicking noises.
Q: What does MRI equipment look like?
The MRI machine is a large cylinder-shaped tube surrounded by a circular magnet. The patient lies on a moveable examination table that slides into the center of the magnet.
Q: How does the procedure work?
In an MRI, the magnetic field is produced by passing an electric current through wire coils. Other coils, located in the machine and in some cases, placed around the part of the body being imaged, send and receive radio waves, producing signals that are detected by the coils. A computer then processes the signals and generates a series of images each of which shows a thin slice of the body. The images can then be studied from different angles by the interpreting physician.
Q: How is the procedure performed?
The patient is positioned on the moveable examination table. Small devices that contain coils capable of sending and receiving radio waves may be placed around or adjacent to the area of the body being studied. The patient is moved into the magnet of the MRI unit. The entire examination is usually completed within 45 minutes.
Q: What should I expect during and after the procedure?
Once the scan begins, it is normal for the area of the body being imaged to feel slightly warm. It is important to remain perfectly still while the images are being recorded, which is typically only a few seconds to a few minutes at a time. The patient will know when images are being recorded because they will hear tapping or thumping sounds when the coils that generate the radiofrequency pulses are activated (patients may request earplugs to reduce the noise of the MRI scanner). MRI scanners are air-conditioned and well-lit.
Q: Who interprets the examination?
A Radiologist from St. Paul Radiology will analyze and interpret the images.
Q: How will I get the results of this diagnostic examination?
The Radiologist will send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will share the results with you.
Q: Are there any risks to having MRI of the spine?
The MRI examination poses almost no risk to the average patient when appropriate safety guidelines are followed.