What Is an MRI Cervical Spine Scan and How Does It Work?

A sore neck after a long day is common. But pain that lingers for weeks and keeps coming back with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms needs some checks. These symptoms may point to a problem involving the cervical spine, which is the part of the spine located in the neck.

Doctors may recommend an MRI cervical scan to identify the underlying cause. The scan helps provide detailed images of the neck, spinal cord, nerves, discs, and surrounding soft tissues. It aids doctors in evaluating a wide range of conditions and planning treatment without exposing you to radiation.

Let's take a closer look at what a cervical MRI scan is, how it works, and when it may be recommended.

What is a cervical MRI scan?

It is a safe and painless procedure which uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the spinal cord, neck, nerves, discs, muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation.

This test is particularly useful for evaluating conditions that may not be visible on other imaging tests.

It may help detect:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Tumours affecting the spine or soft tissues
• Spinal cord abnormalities
• Infections around the spine
• Blood vessel abnormalities, such as aneurysms
• Bone, soft tissue and joint disorders
• Ligament or soft tissue injuries
• Degenerative changes in the cervical spine

How does it work?

For this scan, you may be asked to lie on a narrow table with your head supported and your arms resting by your sides. Shortly before the scan, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any metal items or jewelry if your doctor has suggested a contrast MRI, a contrast agent may be injected through a vein in your arm to improve the visibility of certain structures.

During the examination, a special coil will be positioned around your neck to capture detailed images. The table then moves slowly into the MRI scanner. Earplugs or headphones are usually provided to make the experience more comfortable. Throughout the procedure, the technician monitors you from a separate room and remains in constant communication. You will also have a call button if you need assistance at any point.

The scan usually takes around 20-45 minutes, depending on whether contrast is used and the number of images needed.

Why is a cervical MRI done?

Doctors recommend this scan when they need a detailed view of the neck and upper spine, especially if symptoms persist despite initial treatment or suggest nerve involvement.

It may be advised to investigate:

• Ongoing neck pain
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
• Degenerative spine conditions
• An injury or trauma to the spine
• Tumours affecting the cervical spine
• An abnormal curve in the spine (scoliosis)
• Having an infection in or near the spine
• Deformities or spinal congenital disabilities

How to prepare for the scan?

No special preparation is required before this scan. However, your doctor may provide specific instructions depending on your medical history.

Before the scan, inform your healthcare provider if you:

• Have a pacemaker, cochlear implant, aneurysm clip, or other implanted medical device
• Have any metal fragments in your body
• Have diabetes or kidney disease
• Experience claustrophobia
• Have undergone previous surgeries involving metal implants
• Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant

If a contrast agent is used for this scan, you may need a kidney function test (KFT) to ensure your kidneys can process the dye safely.

In some cases, people with severe claustrophobia or those who find enclosed spaces difficult may be offered an open MRI or mild sedation if appropriate.

Kindly inform your doctor about pregnancy too, as MRIs are not recommended during the first trimester of your pregnancy. In such a case, your doctor may postpone the scan. It is also important to share the medications you are currently on, or if you have any metal implants from the previous surgery.

What can you expect after a cervical scan?

Once the scan is complete, you can return to your normal routine activities. The MRI images are reviewed by a radiologist, who prepares a detailed report for your doctor. Your doctor will then discuss the findings with you and recommend what next steps need to be taken. Depending on the results, further investigations, medication, physiotherapy, or other treatments may be suggested.

Early evaluation of persistent neck pain or neurological symptoms can help identify underlying conditions before they become more serious, allowing treatment to begin at the right time.

FAQs

1. Is a cervical spine MRI safe to perform?

Yes, it is very safe to perform as it uses radio waves and magnets, not radiation. It is a non-invasive procedure and is easy to perform too.

2. Is this imaging procedure painful?

The cervical spine MRI is not painful; however, you may feel a little stiff. You just need to lie completely still on a hard table during the procedure.

3. Why is an MRI spine scan recommended by doctors?

This imaging scan captures high-quality, detailed radiation-free pictures of nerves, spinal cords, vertebrae, and surrounding soft tissues.

4. Which is better for the spine, CT or MRI?

Neither scan is better for every individual. MRI is better for soft tissues like nerves and discs; on the other hand, a CT scan is useful to capture bone fractures and emergency trauma. The ideal choice depends on which part of the spine is required to be examined.

Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9661660/

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/care/medical-tests/cervical-mri-scan