Cost of MRI LS Spine in India
Request a Call Back
Table of contents
What is MRI LS-Spine?
MRI LS-Spine or Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Lumbar-Sacral spine region is a diagnostic medical imaging technique. It is a non-invasive and painless scan test that provides detailed images of the spinal cord (lumbar-sacral region). This test uses magnetic fields and radio waves to form clear images of the internal structure of the spine. It is used to diagnose problems related to the lower back region if you experience severe back pain for a prolonged time.
Why is the MRI LS-Spine done?
Men and women of any age can get this test done if they experience discomfort in the lower back region. Due to the clarity of the images, the doctor can assess the concerns like bulging discs, nerve pinching, spinal cord injury, fractures, soft tissue injury, bone deformities, multiple sclerosis, cancer, birth defects, and bone degeneration. The scan is also prescribed if you have had an accident or recently undergone spine surgery. The MRI scans can also detect spinal infections. A timely test can help diagnose the issue and avoid a severe prognosis of the illness.
Who should get the MRI LS-Spine done?
Any person, from kids to adults, can get an MRI scan done for their spinal examination. If a person suffers from severe backaches, it is better to consult a doctor for an MRI scan. If you have a family history of congenital disorders, get an expert medical opinion and timely treatment. If a person feels difficulty moving their lower back while walking, or standing, it is best to get an opinion from a neurologist.
Disclaimer: It is advised to always consult your doctor for interpreting the test reports to avoid confusion and panic.
What precautions should I take?
- Please follow the instructions suggested by your doctor.
- Inform if you or the patient is under any medications or underlying illness.
- Show your old medical reports to the doctor (if any) before undergoing the scan.
- Inform the doctor if you are menstruating, pregnant, or breastfeeding before undergoing an MRI scan.
What does the MRI LS-Spine detect?
An MRI of the lumbar-sacral spine measures the sagittal diameter of the spinal canal and the spinal cord, which is unable to detect in a normal X-ray. It can also detect tumours, mass lesions, nerve damage, disc herniation, sciatica, and lumbar spinal stenosis. It can also detect the structure of vertebrates and injuries in them. The MRI LS-Spine can also detect issues in the close-by organs surrounding the spinal region.
What tests are included in the MRI LS-Spine?
The MRI consists of detailed imaging of the lumbar-sacral region of the spine. MRI scans make use of contrast dye, which contains gadolinium. Contrast dyes are injected intravenously into the patient’s arm before undergoing a scan. The MRI makes use of advanced computer software along with strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed, cross-sectional images of the lower back region.
MRI LS-Spine Preparation
Before undergoing an MRI scan, make sure to remember certain instructions.
- You must remove all the jewellery or body piercings like earrings, rings, nose rings, and so on. The metal objects may hinder the quality of the test results.
- If you have any implants such as stents, pacemakers, or internal splints, kindly inform your doctor or the lab technician before undergoing an MRI scan.
- If you are claustrophobic, menstruating, pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform the authorities before the scan.
- In case you are under different medication or have any underlying disorders, do not hesitate to inform the doctor.
- You will be requested to wear a hospital gown while undergoing the scan.
MRI LS-Spine Procedure
The patient will only have to lie down as instructed. The rest of the scanning procedure is handled by the lab expert and the MRI machines.
- A licensed lab technician at the diagnostic centre or hospital will guide you best during the scanning.
- The contrast dye will be injected before the scan. It may also be given as an oral medicine to consume.
- After wearing a hospital gown, you will be allowed to lie down on your back without any movement. The body movements can disturb the images of the scan.
- The MRI machine makes a noise when the scan is in progress.
- If you feel claustrophobic or uneasy, an emergency call button can be used for communication.
- The lab technician will be on the other side of the door examining the images and handling the machine.
- The doctor or the lab expert may do light communication with you, to calm your nerves.
What to expect after the MRI LS-Spine is done?
- Once the MRI scan is complete, you will be allowed to wear your normal clothes and all your jewellery.
- In case the doctor sedates you during the scan, you will be shifted to a recovery room until you gain consciousness.
- You may feel slight bruising or pain at the site of the injection. If you feel other discomforts, inform the authorities as soon as possible.
- The scan images will be produced within 24 to 48 hours. Once you get your report, kindly consult a neurologist for further suggestions.
- Avoid self-diagnosis to prevent confusion and panic.
When will I get the MRI LS-Spine report?
The test reports will be available within 24 to 48 hours. It may take a longer time depending upon the testing centre and location. It is mandatory to consult an expert doctor to diagnose your condition and plan a treatment course accordingly. The lab technician may refer you to an expert doctor if you do not know one.
Disclaimer: The time may vary based on your condition and the availability of the radiologist.
How will I get the MRI LS-Spine report?
The results will contain detailed images of the lumbar-sacral spine region, along with the details of the images produced. Based on the photos and the written report, the doctor will diagnose the condition and discuss the treatment plan.
How to interpret the MRI LS-Spine report?
Once you get your MRI test reports, please consult an expert doctor for their advice. Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate under any circumstances. The neurologist will be able to tell you what’s wrong with the test reports and accordingly plan the treatment for your illness.
Is there any risk involved?
The MRI LS-Spine test can cause some side effects in an individual.
- The contrast dye used for the scanning can cause nausea, headaches, and burning sensation.
- The gadolinium in the dye can cause itchy eyes and skin rashes.
- The strong magnetic waves can cause skin burn, redness, and itchiness.
- The magnetic waves can harm the baby during the initial stages of pregnancy. So, to be safe, women during their first trimester of pregnancy must consult a gynaecologist before undergoing an MRI scan.
What equipment or instruments are used for MRI LS-Spine?
- The MRI machine set-up uses a large magnet for a strong magnetic field, radio waves, and computer software to create detailed, cross-sectional images of the lumbar-sacral region of the spine.
- The MRI scanner resembles a shape of a large doughnut with a table in the middle, allowing the patient to slide in.
- An MRI scan does not use potentially harmful ionizing radiation, like the ones used in X-rays and CT scans.
How long does the MRI-LS Spine take?
The entire process of MRI scanning of the lumbar-sacral spine takes typically around 20 to 60 minutes. The patient can be awake or be sedated during the scanning process. Toddlers or kids are usually mildly sedated before undergoing the scan so that they lie still.
How do I book the MRI LS-Spine through MFine?
For further assistance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on MRI LS-Spine
Is an MRI of the spine painful?
MRI scans are a rapid and non-invasive procedure. It may cause a few side effects but are not harmful like X-rays or Computed Tomography. The procedure is non-painful and safe for kids as well. If you are unsure, kindly consult a neurologist before undergoing an MRI.
Is an MRI more detailed than CT?
Both MRI and CT scans capture the internal structures of the organs. However, MRI scans are more clear and detailed due to the strong magnetic field and radio waves. A CT uses X-rays to produce internal body images.
Can I cough or sneeze during an MRI?
You must lay still without body movements during an MRI scan. The coughing or sneezing may disturb the imaging. However, if you feel discomfort or urgency to cough/sneeze, you can press the emergency call button and inform the authorities.
How do you overcome claustrophobia during an MRI?
If you are claustrophobic, inform your doctor beforehand. Request the authorities to play soft music in the background. Once you lie down, close your eyes, and breathe deeply. If your doctor prescribes any medicine, take it before an MRI scan. Ask for a blanket, if it makes you comfortable.
How much does an MRI cost?
The average cost of an MRI LS-Spine is roughly around ₹3500/-. The cost may vary in government and private hospitals and laboratories. The cost of an MRI also depends on which body part is to be scanned.
Who is not eligible for an MRI scan?
If a patient has a pacemaker, splints, aneurysm clips, prosthetic devices, neurostimulators, or cochlear implants in the body, they cannot undergo an MRI scan. It is because the MRI uses a strong magnetic field during scans and can cause utter discomfort and harm the body. They also hinder the image qualities.
Can you put on deodorant for an MRI?
Deodorants, perfumes, heavy make-up, and body lotions can affect the quality of the images during an MRI. It is better to avoid them before undergoing the scan. Wear loose and comfortable clothes before going for an MRI scan.
Can I get an MRI scan without a referral?
It is better to consult a doctor if you experience any discomfort or symptoms of lower back problems. Only if it is absolutely necessary, the doctor will prescribe an MRI LS-Spine for you or else an X-ray or CT. All the additional information will also be provided by the doctor.
What organs can be seen under MRI of the lumbar-sacral spine?
The MRI of the lumbar-sacral spine may detect abnormalities of the kidneys, adrenal glands, liver, spleen, major blood vessels, the uterus, and adnexal regions. Abnormal mass lesions and internal soft tissue injuries can be detected in the MRI.
Can MRI LS-Spine detect multiple sclerosis?
The MRI reports may show the areas of abnormalities that suggest multiple sclerosis as the diagnosis. But, to confirm the diagnosis, spinal fluid testing may be required, which is more definitive than MRI scans.
Should I take any medicines before undergoing an MRI of the spine?
The doctor will inject the contrast dye intravenously or give it in the form of oral medicine. Apart from the dye, you may be sedated or given anti anxiety medicines if you are claustrophobic to the environment. It is crucial to inform the doctor if you are afraid of closed places.
Is MRI safe for toddlers?
There are no severe side effects recorded in children who undergo an MRI. However, toddlers or kids below 5 years may be sedated mildly to keep them still during an MRI scan. Toddlers can be fed well and put to sleep naturally before undergoing the scan. The caretaker may be allowed to be present with the kids during the process.
Can an MRI detect spinal infections?
MRI scans can not only detect structural and nervous issues of the spinal region, but also spinal infections like cellulitis, myositis, fasciitis, abscess, and septic arthritis due to their enhanced resolution and clarity of the images. Spinal infections can be caused by various microbial bacteria and fungal species.
Are there any food restrictions before I undergo an MRI scan?
The doctors do not recommend any food or drinks restrictions before undergoing an MRI. However, it is better to avoid heavy eating and drinking, at least 5 to 6 hours before undergoing the scan. It is because the MRI machine noise and the contrast dye may be irritating and nauseous for some people.
Can I refuse the contrast dye before undergoing an MRI?
Before you refuse to take the contrast dye, consult the doctor for their suggestion. Until and unless you are allergic to gadolinium present in the dye, it should not concern you. The side effects of the contrast dye are very low to negligible. The doctor may recommend any substitute if you are allergic to the chemical.
Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.