Cervical Spine MRI

MRI of the cervical spine (neck region) assessing vertebral discs, spinal cord, nerve roots, and facet joints from the skull base to the upper thoracic transition. Indicated for neck pain, radiating arm symptoms, and degenerative cervical conditions.

Cervical spine MRI at AGEL Praha images the seven cervical vertebrae, their intervertebral discs, the spinal cord, exiting nerve roots, facet joints, and surrounding soft tissues from the craniocervical junction down to the C7-T1 level. The Siemens MAGNETOM Sola 1.5T scanner delivers sequences optimised for spinal imaging, producing detailed sagittal and axial views that allow the radiologist to assess disc morphology, canal dimensions, and cord signal characteristics. Common findings on cervical spine MRI include disc bulging and herniation (particularly at C5-C6 and C6-C7, the most mobile segments), foraminal stenosis causing nerve root compression, central canal narrowing, facet joint hypertrophy, and degenerative changes such as disc desiccation and osteophyte formation. For younger patients, the scan can identify traumatic disc injuries, ligamentous damage, and stress fractures that plain X-rays may miss. The examination is particularly relevant for individuals with neck pain radiating into the shoulders or arms, numbness or tingling in the hands, and those with occupational risk factors such as prolonged screen work or manual overhead labour. Athletes in contact sports may also benefit from baseline cervical imaging. The 30-minute scan requires no special preparation. Patients lie supine in the scanner with a dedicated neck coil positioned around the cervical region. The 70cm wide bore of the Sola scanner provides additional comfort compared to older, narrower tunnel designs. No contrast agent is used in the standard protocol. At 8,800 CZK the cervical spine MRI is priced at a fraction of equivalent scans in Germany or Austria, where comparable imaging typically runs EUR 400-600. Prague's central European location and well-connected airport make same-day imaging trips feasible from most neighbouring countries.