| An MRI of herniated disc is commonly recommended | | | | • Depicts multiple details in 3-D |
| by a physician to confirm the exact location, nature | | | | X-ray and CT scan is not a feasible alternative to MRI |
| and extent of the spinal ailment. The diagnostic tool | | | | because these cannot reveal infections or tumor in the |
| gives high resolution cross-section images of the spinal | | | | spinal column with such accuracy as MRI does. |
| cord with the underlying nerves. This helps a physician | | | | Procedural Details of MRI Scan |
| interpret the scan result and start the proper mode of | | | | A patient who is to undergo the MRI of herniated disc |
| treatment to alleviate pain. | | | | would be asked to remove metal objects such as |
| Aspects of Open MRI for Herniated Disc | | | | jewelry, watches and credit cards before entering the |
| Open MRI devices are sophisticated and more | | | | scan room. This is because there is a potential risk of |
| advantageous when compared to traditional MRI. | | | | such objects interfering with the procedure. A hospital |
| These are capable of mapping the spine in greater | | | | gown would be provided which is required to be worn |
| detail using powerful magnetic field and radio waves. | | | | for scanning. The patient would then be assisted on to |
| Patients suffering from herniated disc and other | | | | the padded sliding table and instructed to lie still. |
| musculoskeletal disorders prefer to undergo open MRI | | | | The duration of MRI scan is usually 30 or 90 minutes. |
| scan for the following reasons: | | | | As there is no downtime associated with the scan, |
| • Lesser scan time | | | | patients can resume normal activities immediately. Both |
| • Non-claustrophobic | | | | children and adults can undergo the scan without |
| • Identifies root cause of disc herniation | | | | apprehension. Most facilities are equipped with |
| • Open, quiet scan | | | | intercom system to allow communication between the |
| • Safe and radiation-free | | | | patient and physician. |
| • Non-discomforting and painless | | | | |