Lumbar Spine MRI

MRI of the lumbar spine covering the lower vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal canal, and nerve roots. Evaluates disc herniations, spinal stenosis, degenerative changes, and nerve compression causing lower back or leg symptoms.

Lumbar spine MRI at PrivatMRT Berlin provides detailed imaging of the five lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5), the lumbosacral junction, the intervertebral discs, the spinal canal, the cauda equina, and the exiting nerve roots. The Siemens 1.5T scanner produces sagittal, axial, and coronal sequences that allow the radiologist to assess each spinal segment systematically. Disc herniation is one of the most common findings, ranging from broad-based disc bulging to focal protrusions and extrusions that may compress adjacent nerve roots and cause radiculopathy -- pain, numbness, or weakness radiating into the leg along a specific dermatome. The L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels are most frequently affected. Spinal canal stenosis, whether congenital or acquired through degenerative facet joint hypertrophy and ligamentum flavum thickening, is clearly visualised and can be graded by the degree of canal narrowing. Degenerative disc disease with loss of disc height and hydration (visible as reduced T2 signal), Modic endplate changes, spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage), and facet joint arthropathy are all routinely assessed. In Berlin's workforce, where prolonged sitting at desks and in transit is the norm, lumbar spine complaints are among the most frequent reasons for MRI referral. The scan takes approximately 30 minutes. Patients lie supine and do not need to fast or make any special preparation. No contrast agent is required for routine lumbar spine imaging. The report describes each level individually and provides a summary of clinically relevant findings for the referring clinician or treating physiotherapist. Self-referral is available for self-pay patients.