Spine MRI

A 3T MRI of the spinal column covering cervical (HWS), thoracic (BWS), or lumbar (LWS) segments for assessment of degenerative changes, disc herniation, spinal stenosis, fractures, and tumours. The high-field scanner provides detailed visualisation of vertebral bodies, intervertebral discs, nerve roots, and the spinal cord itself.

Spinal MRI at Primenostics uses 3T field strength to achieve detailed cross-sectional imaging of the vertebral column and its surrounding structures. The examination can focus on a single spinal region — cervical, thoracic, or lumbar — or combine multiple segments depending on the clinical question. Common indications include chronic back or neck pain, radiculopathy with radiating symptoms, suspected disc herniation, degenerative spondylosis, spinal canal stenosis, and post-traumatic assessment. The 3T scanner delivers higher spatial resolution than 1.5T systems, enabling clearer delineation of small disc protrusions, subtle foraminal narrowing, and early degenerative changes in facet joints that might be ambiguous on lower-field systems. For patients with a history of spinal surgery, the enhanced signal-to-noise ratio helps distinguish scar tissue from recurrent disc pathology. The scan duration is approximately 20 to 30 minutes per spinal region. The double-couch preparation system allows comfortable positioning before the patient enters the scanner bore, which is especially helpful for patients with acute back pain who may need extra time to find a tolerable position. Dr. Walter reviews all spinal imaging personally and provides a same-day consultation discussing findings and any recommended follow-up with orthopaedic or neurosurgical specialists.