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MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine

Also known as Lumbar MRI scan, MRI of the lumbar spine, MRI of the spine

This test is for

Male, Female

Earliest reports in

24-48 hours

Test Preparation

During the MRI, you might be asked to remove metallic coins, jewelry, metal wristwatches, metallic keys, dentures, or hearing aids, as the MRI uses strong magnetic fields.
Tell your radiologist if you have metallic implants like pacemakers, cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, neuro-stimulators, surgical staples/clips, or drug implants.
Pregnant women should inform their doctor about their pregnancy before going for MRI.

Understanding MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine

What is MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine?

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Lumbosacral Spine scan is a noninvasive and painless imaging procedure. The scan uses strong radio waves to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the lower spine (lumbar spine). It assists doctors in diagnosing lower back pain, preoperative planning, or tracking progressive conditions.

The lumbar spine consists of the five vertebrae in your lower back. It provides support for the body weight, surrounds and protects the spinal cord, and helps with a wide range of body motions. The MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine aids in analysing the lower back area, including bones, discs, nerves, and soft tissues. It enables doctors to identify spine problems such as herniated discs, compression of the nerves, spinal trauma, arthritis, and stenosis. It also aids in identifying more severe conditions, such as tumors or inflammation in the spine. This test utilizes advanced magnetic resonance technology to scan the lower back with great accuracy and precision.

The lMRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine is advised when the individual has persistent low back pain, leg numbness, or weakness that has not improved with the initial treatment. It is also performed if the doctor suspects issues such as herniated discs, nerve compression, spinal trauma, or any degenerative conditions. Furthermore, this test also screens for infections, tumors, or any structural abnormalities in the spine responsible for the discomfort.

Your doctor might recommend this scan if you are experiencing chronic lower back pain for a long time, numbness in your legs, or weakness that has not improved with initial treatment. It is also used to look for spinal damage from injuries, birth defects, or signs of arthritis and degenerative changes. In addition, it also screens for infections, tumors, or any structural abnormalities in the spine responsible for the discomfort.

Remove any metallic objects such as metallic coins, jewelry, metal wristwatches, metallic keys, dentures, or hearing aids before taking the MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine test, as MRI uses strong magnetic fields that can attract metal objects. Wear loose and comfortable clothes with no metal fasteners. Inform the doctor about whether you are pregnant, or have any medical history, allergies, medications, a pacemaker, metal implants, etc. If you are claustrophobic or obese to have a standard closed MRI, talk with the doctor about open MRI possibilities.

Interpretation of test results requires expert guidance. Therefore, do not self-medicate solely based on these test results. Always consult the doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. This test offers detailed information regarding the anatomy and function of the lumbosacral region, aiding in accurate diagnosis and guiding appropriate treatment plans.

Disclaimer: You must visit your nearest Tata 1mg partnered lab facility for radiology tests.

What is MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine used for?

The MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine test is done to:

Investigate the cause of ongoing lower back pain.
Check for herniated or damaged discs, compressed nerves, arthritis, or other spinal conditions.
Assess injuries like fractures or tissue tears from trauma.
Detect structural abnormalities or birth defects in the spine.

What does MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine measure?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a scanning test that provides detailed images of the lower spine, including bones (vertebrae), discs, nerves, and soft tissues. It helps your doctor see how well the spine is aligned and if there are issues like disc bulges, nerve pressure, or signs of degeneration. It can also reveal infections, inflammation, tumors, or injuries that might be causing pain or discomfort.

During the MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine scan, you’ll be asked to lie down on a flat, movable table. Once you're comfortably positioned, the table slowly slides into a large tube-like machine. The MRI machine uses strong magnets and radio waves to capture detailed images of your lower spine. You won’t feel anything during the scan, but you may hear a series of loud knocking or tapping sounds—that's just the machine taking images. It’s important to stay as still as possible to get clear pictures.

Frequently Asked Questions about MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine

Q. Is the MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine test safe?

Yes, the MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine is a safe test for most individuals. It does not involve ionizing radiation, but if you have implants made of metal or if you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking this test.

Q. How long does the MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine test take?

The MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine test can take as long as necessary for the radiologist to obtain clear and detailed images of the areas intended.

Q. Why might I need the MRI Lumbosacral Spine test?

Your doctor may order an MRI of the lumbosacral region to investigate such chronic pain in the back, legs, numbness, and weakness, or to determine the condition of sciatica.

Q. What should I expect during the MRI?

You will lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine during the MRI. The procedure is painless, but you may need to lie still for some time while images are taken. You may hear loud tapping or thumping sounds.

Q. Will I feel any pain during the MRI Lumbosacral Spine test?

An MRI exam causes no pain. You must lie still, as too much movement can blur MRI images and cause errors.

Q. Do I need a doctor's prescription for the MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine test?

Yes, a doctor's prescription is usually necessary for this scan.

Q. Can I bring a family member or friend with me during the MRI Lumbo-Sacral Spine test?

Although policies may vary across diagnostic centers, a family member can usually stay in the waiting area during the procedure.

Q. What if I’m claustrophobic?

In case you have claustrophobia, let your doctor or technician know before getting scanned. They can recommend alternatives such as medication or sedation so that you will feel more at ease, or they might utilize an open MRI machine, which offers a less cramped environment.

Q. What is the difference between open and closed MRI?

Open MRI machines have a wider opening and are less confining. This makes them ideal for claustrophobic individuals. Closed MRI machines have a narrow design and usually provide higher-resolution images, which can be better for detailed examinations. The choice depends on medical needs and individual comfort.