Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Brain and Spine
(MRI Scan of the Spine, MRI Scan of the Brain)
Procedure Description
What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of a large magnet, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
How does an MRI scan work?
The MRI machine is a large, cylindrical (tube-shaped) machine that creates a strong magnetic field around the patient. This magnetic field, along with a radiofrequency, alters the hydrogen atoms' natural alignment in the body. Computers are then used to form two-dimensional (2D) images of a body structure or organ based on the activity of the hydrogen atoms. Cross-sectional views can be obtained to reveal further details. MRI does not use radiation, as do x-rays or computed tomography (CT scans).
A magnetic field is created and pulses of radio waves are sent from a scanner. The radio waves knock the nuclei of the atoms in your body out of their normal position. As the nuclei realign back into proper position, the nuclei send out radio signals. These signals are received by a computer that analyzes and converts them into an image of the part of the body being examined. This image appears on a viewing monitor. Some MRI machines look like narrow tunnels, while others are more open.
Magnetic resonance (MRI) may be used instead of computed tomography (CT) in situations where organs or soft tissue are being studied, because with MRI scanning bones do not obscure the images of organs and soft tissues, as does CT scanning.
New uses and indications for MRI have contributed to the development of additional magnetic resonance technology. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a new procedure used to evaluate blood flow through arteries in a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) manner. MRA can also be used to detect intracranial (within the brain) aneurysms and vascular malformations (abnormalities of blood vessels within the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the body).
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is another noninvasive procedure used to assess chemical abnormalities in body tissues such as the brain. MRS may be used to assess disorders such as HIV infection of the brain, stroke, head injury, coma, Alzheimer's disease, tumors, and multiple sclerosis.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain (fMRI) is used to determine the specific location of the brain where a certain function, such as speech or memory, occurs. The general areas of the brain in which such functions occur are known, but the exact location may vary from person to person. During functional resonance imaging of the brain, you will be asked to perform a specific task, such as recite the Pledge of Allegiance, while the scan is being done. By pinpointing the exact location of the functional center in the brain, physicians can plan surgery or other treatments for a particular disorder of the brain.
Other related procedures that may be used to diagnose problems of the spine and/or brain include x-rays of the spine, x-rays of the skull, myelogram, brain (cerebral) angiography, or computed tomography (CT scan) of the brain. Please see these procedures for additional information.
Reasons for the Procedure
MRI may be used to examine the brain and/or spinal cord for injuries or the presence of structural abnormalities or certain other conditions, such as:
- tumors
- abscesses
- congenital abnormalities
- aneurysms
- venous malformations
- hemorrhage, or bleeding into the brain or spinal cord
- subdural hematoma (an area of bleeding just under the dura mater, or covering of the brain)
- degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, hypoxic encephalopathy (dysfunction of the brain due to a lack of oxygen), or encephalomyelitis (inflammation or infection of the brain and/or spinal cord)
- hydrocephalus, or fluid in the brain
- herniation or degeneration of discs of the spinal cord
MRI can also help to identify the specific location of a functional center of the brain (the specific part of the brain controlling a function such as speech or memory) to assist in treatment of a condition of the brain.
There may be other reasons for your physician to recommend MRI of the spine or brain.
Risks of the Procedure
Because radiation is not used, there is no risk of exposure to radiation during an MRI procedure.
Due to the use of the strong magnet, MRI cannot be performed on patients with implanted pacemakers, intracranial aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, certain prosthetic devices, implanted drug infusion pumps, neurostimulators, bone-growth stimulators, certain intrauterine contraceptive devices, or any other type of iron-based metal implants. MRI is also contraindicated in the presence of internal metallic objects such as bullets or shrapnel, as well as surgical clips, pins, plates, screws, metal sutures, or wire mesh. If for some reason there is a possibility of metal fragments in your eyes, you may be asked to have x-rays taken ahead of time to assure the MRI is safe for you.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, you should notify your physician. Due to the potential for a harmful increase in the temperature of the amniotic fluid, MRI is not advised for pregnant patients.
If contrast dye is used, there is a risk for allergic reaction to the dye. Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to medications, contrast dye, iodine, or shellfish should notify their physician.
There may be other risks depending upon your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your physician prior to the procedure.
Patient Preparation
Your physician will explain the procedure to you and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions that you might have about the procedure.
Generally, there is no special restriction on diet or activity prior to an MRI procedure.
Before the examination, it is extremely important that you inform the technologist if any of the following apply to you:
- you are claustrophobic and think that you will be unable to lie still while inside the scanning machine, in which case you may be given a sedative
- you have a pacemaker inserted, or have had heart valves replaced
- you have any type of implanted pump, such as an insulin pump
- you have metal plates, pins, metal implants, surgical staples, or aneurysm clips
- you have any metallic fragments anywhere in the body
- you have permanent eye liner
- you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant
- you have ever had a bullet wound
- you have ever worked with metal (e.g., a metal grinder or welder)
- you have any body piercing
- you have an intrauterine device (IUD)
As there is a possibility that you may receive a sedative before the procedure, you should plan to have someone drive you home afterwards.
Based upon your medical condition, your physician may request other specific preparation.
During the Procedure
MRI of the Brain
MRI may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your physician's practices.
Generally, MRI of the spine and brain follows this process:
- You will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, hairpins, removable dental work, or other objects that may interfere with the procedure.
- If you are asked to remove clothing, you will be given a gown to wear.
- If you are to have a procedure done with contrast, an intravenous (IV) line will be started in the hand or arm for injection of the contrast medication.
- You will lie on a scan table that slides into a large circular opening of the scanning machine. Pillows and straps may be used to prevent movement during the procedure.
- You will lie on a scan table that slides into a large circular opening of the scanning machine. Pillows and straps may be used to prevent movement during the procedure.
- The technologist will be in another room where the scanner controls are located. However, you will be in constant sight of the technologist through a window. Speakers inside the scanner will enable the technologist to communicate with and hear you. You will have a call button so that you can let the technologist know if you have any problems during the procedure. The technologist will be watching you at all times and will be in constant communication.
- You will be given earplugs or a headset to wear to help block out the noise from the scanner. Some headsets may provide music for you to listen to.
- During the scanning process, a clicking noise will sound as the magnetic field is created and pulses of radio waves are sent from the scanner.
- It will be important for you to remain very still during the examination, as any movement could cause distortion and affect the quality of the scan.
- At intervals, you may be instructed to hold your breath, or to not breathe, for a few seconds, depending on the body part being examined. You will then be told when you can breathe. You should not have to hold your breath for longer than a few seconds.
- If contrast dye is used for your procedure, you may feel some effects when the dye is injected into the IV line. These effects include a flushing sensation or a feeling of coldness, a salty or metallic taste in the mouth, a brief headache, itching, or nausea and/or vomiting. These effects usually last for a few moments.
- You should notify the technologist if you feel any breathing difficulties, sweating, numbness, or heart palpitations.
- Once the scan has been completed, the table will slide out of the scanner, and you will be assisted off the table.
- If an IV line was inserted for contrast administration, the line will be removed.
- While the MRI procedure itself causes no pain, having to lie still for the length of the procedure might cause some discomfort or pain, particularly in the case of a recent injury or invasive procedure such as surgery. The technologist will use all possible comfort measures and complete the procedure as quickly as possible to minimize any discomfort or pain.
- On occasion, some patients with metal fillings in their teeth may experience some slight tingling of the teeth during the procedure.
After the Procedure
You should move slowly when getting up from the scanner table to avoid any dizziness or lightheadedness from lying flat for the length of the procedure.
If any sedatives were taken for the procedure, you may be required to rest until the sedatives have worn off. You will also need to avoid driving.
If contrast dye is used during your procedure, you may be monitored for a period of time for any side effects or reactions to the contrast dye, such as itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.
If you notice any pain, redness, and/or swelling at the IV site after you return home following your procedure, you should notify your physician as this could indicate an infection or other type of reaction.
Otherwise, there is no special type of care required after a MRI scan of the spine and brain. You may resume your usual diet and activities, unless your physician advises you differently.
Frequently Asked Questions about MRI/MRA
Q. Does it hurt?
A. There may be some discomfort associated with insertion of an IV, if one is used. Also, you must lay very still during some parts of the procedure, and this may be uncomfortable. If you are claustrophobic, you may not tolerate the MRI scanner. If this is the case, ask your doctor ahead of time for sedative. Try to breathe slowly and relax during the MRI, and you may be more comfortable with your eyes closed.
Q. How long does it take?
A. Depending upon how much of the brain and/or spine is being evaluated, it may take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half to complete the test.
Useful links about MRI/MRA
The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.
This page contains links to other Web sites with information about this procedure and related health conditions. We hope you find these sites helpful, but please remember we do not control or endorse the information presented on these Web sites, nor do these sites endorse the information contained here.
American Academy of Neurological and Orthopaedic Surgeons
American Academy of Neurology
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
American Cancer Society
Brain Injury Association
National Cancer Institute
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
National Library of Medicine
National Osteoporosis Foundation
National Stroke Association
Scoliosis Research Society
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