Detailed examination of the neck region with magnetic resonance imaging. It is the primary modality for diagnosing cervical disc herniation, spinal cord compression (myelopathy), and nerve root impingement.
Indication
- Persistent neck pain and arm-radiating pain (cervical radiculopathy)
- Suspected cervical disc herniation
- Cervical myelopathy — signs of spinal cord compression (gait disturbance, balance loss, loss of fine hand skills)
- Numbness, weakness, or reflex changes in the arm
- Cervical spinal stenosis (narrowing of the cervical spinal canal)
- Suspected ligament, disc, or spinal cord injury after neck trauma
- Evaluation of spinal cord involvement in multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases
Preparation
- Fasting is generally not required
- All metal items (necklaces, earrings, attached piercings) are removed
- If there is a history of neck surgery, the type of implant is reported
- Devices such as pacemakers, cochlear implants, and deep brain stimulators must be reported
- If claustrophobia is present, advance notice is given
How it's performed
- Patient is positioned supine; an appropriate coil is placed around the head and neck
- The examination takes approximately 15-25 minutes; remaining still is important
- T2 sequences show disc structure and intramedullary signal changes in the spinal cord
- T1 sequences evaluate vertebral and bone marrow structure
- In suspected myelopathy, intramedullary brightness (T2 hyperintensity) is carefully sought
- When needed, post-contrast evaluation is performed with gadolinium contrast
Post-procedure
- No specific restrictions after the scan
- Results are reported by the radiologist; interpreted by neurosurgery, orthopedics, or neurology
- Surgical decisions are made based on imaging combined with clinical findings
- If sedation was used, driving is not recommended on the same day
Risks
- Rare allergic reactions to gadolinium contrast
- Inability to complete the scan due to claustrophobia
- Risk of heating with MR-incompatible implants (compatibility is verified beforehand)
- Very rarely nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (advanced kidney failure plus contrast)
FAQ
Is a cervical disc herniation dangerous for the spinal cord?
Most cervical disc herniations only press on the nerve root and respond well to conservative treatment. However, large central herniations can compress the spinal cord and cause myelopathy; in such cases surgery may be considered.
I have clumsy hands and balance issues, why is a cervical MRI requested?
Decline in fine hand skills and gait disturbance are typical findings of cervical spinal cord compression (cervical myelopathy). MRI is the primary modality to demonstrate spinal cord compression.
How long does a cervical MRI take?
Typically 15-25 minutes. If contrast is given, an additional 5-10 minutes is added.
I have dental fillings or a dental plate; can I have an MRI?
Standard dental fillings cause no issues. Removable plates and dentures are taken out before the scan. Image quality may be affected by fixed orthodontic wires; please inform your team.
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