MRI for the thoracic and lumbar spine - what does tomography show and how is it done? What will an MRI of the thoracic spine show and whether it is necessary to prepare for it What does an MRI of the thoracic spine show

One of the most frequent questions of patients after being referred for an examination is what should be the preparation for MRI of the thoracic spine and is it needed at all? The answer to this question depends on whether you are going to have an MRI scan with or without contrast. The MR-scanning method visualizes soft and cartilaginous tissues quite well, and bones are worse. Although the thoracic spine consists of twelve thoracic vertebrae, there is a lot of cartilage, articular surfaces and intervertebral discs.

MRI of the thoracic spine: why is it prescribed, methods of preparation

So, what diseases does an MRI of the thoracic spine determine and what will be the proper preparation? In fact, it is not always necessary to prepare - preparation is needed if MRI of the thoracic spine is performed with contrast, as well as when tomography is performed on children and patients with claustrophobia.

Typically, magnetic resonance imaging of the spine is prescribed for:

developmental anomalies;
hernias, protrusions of intervertebral discs;
chest osteochondrosis;
benign tumors (thoracic hemangioma);
narrowing and malignant neoplasms in the spine;
metastases in the spinal cord;
injuries, injuries (including compression);
spondylosis, spondylarthrosis;
circulatory disorders (including after strokes);
degenerative and dystrophic diseases (multiple sclerosis);
preparation for the operation;
the need to monitor the results of treatment;
infections (tuberculosis, meningitis);
ankylosing spondylitis;
bone diseases (osteomyelitis, osteoporosis).

There are many other pathologies that may require this examination. And quite often it is necessary to conduct an MRI of the thoracic spine using a contrast agent. In this case, preparation is required to avoid dyspeptic symptoms (nausea, vomiting). It is quite simple - you can not eat four hours before the scan.

Separate preparation for MRI of the thoracic spine is indicated for patients with claustrophobia, children and people who, for various reasons, cannot stay in one position for a long time. In this case, general anesthesia (sedation) is indicated, which requires additional examinations by the anesthesiologist. When preparing for an MRI of the thoracic spine with anesthesia, it is forbidden to eat and drink four hours before the procedure.

We must not forget that MRI is not done to people with metal inclusions in the body and to women in the first trimester of pregnancy. MRI is contraindicated in renal pathologies accompanied by renal insufficiency or glomerulopathy. Women who are breastfeeding are advised to stop breastfeeding for 1-2 days to wait for the contrast agent to be removed from the body.

conclusions

Special preparation for an MRI of the thoracic spine is needed only if contrast or general anesthesia is used. In this case, you will have to refuse to eat and drink at least four hours before the procedure.

MRI of the thoracic spine or organs is a diagnostic measure that allows you to determine morphological changes in tissues, degenerative-inflammatory processes, as well as a number of diseases.

With its help, you can establish and differentiate the diagnosis, as well as prescribe the optimal type of therapy. This is the safest method for examining health for the patient's body, since it is carried out without the use of x-rays.

MRI of the chest is the most informative way to diagnose diseases associated with the spine and organs of the thoracic region (lungs, heart, blood vessels, trachea, etc.).

It can be used to examine both bone and soft tissues. However, this procedure is most often used to examine the spine: vertebral bodies, spinal cord, roots and intervertebral discs.

Indications for carrying out

MRI of the thoracic spine is prescribed in the following cases:

suspicion of osteochondrosis (at any stage of the disease);
with suspicion of fractures, with injuries and bruises of the spinal column (even if the x-ray did not reveal pathologies);
with suspicion of hernia or intervertebral protrusion;
in the presence or suspicion of tumor-like neoplasms;
if you suspect the presence of metastases arising from a primary oncological disease;
with defects in the structure of the spinal column, circulatory disorders;
if you suspect multiple sclerosis or encephalomyelitis (chest MRI is the only diagnostic method that shows these pathologies);
with Bechterew's disease;
making such diagnoses as osteomyelitis, spondylitis and other necrotic diseases;
in the presence of vascular anomalies (arterial and venous);
control over the condition of the spine after surgery;
examination of the spine and soft tissues before surgery.

Organ diagnostics

If the diagnosis of the chest organs is carried out, then the heart, lungs, trachea, vascular system, etc. are subject to examination. A similar procedure shows the condition of the heart valves, its anatomical structure, blood flow and lymph flow.

If there is a study of the respiratory system, then the lungs are evaluated: the morphological structure of the tissues, the size of the organ, the condition of the pleura. At the same time, inflammatory and degenerative processes in organs, metastases, tumor-like formations of various etiologies, etc. can be detected.

MRI of the thoracic spine is the most informative procedure. To improve the quality of volumetric images, a contrast agent is often introduced, which stains healthy and damaged areas of the thoracic spine with different colors.

Key benefits of the procedure

Diagnostics using the magnetic resonance method has its advantages over other methods of examination (CT of the thoracic region, ultrasound or x-ray). Such benefits include:

High data accuracy. Sometimes chest MRI is the only way to establish or differentiate the diagnosis. MRI images are 3D, making it easier to select the optimal therapy.
No need to inject contrast agents. Magnetic resonance imaging can show pathologies without the use of contrast. Contrast agents can be additionally administered (when examining the liver, brain, etc.), but this is not a prerequisite for the procedure (unlike chest CT).
Informativeness. With the help of MRI, both bone tissues (mainly the spine and ribs) and soft tissues are examined (in this case, you can see the state of the heart, lungs, blood vessels, etc.).
Method safety. MRI of the chest organs takes place without the use of X-rays, which are unsafe for the body, diagnosis is carried out by exposing the patient to a magnetic field.
Painlessness. The procedure is painless and fast (diagnosis time takes an average of 30-40 minutes).

The main contraindications to the appointment

Chest MRI has one significant drawback - the procedure is not prescribed for patients who have metal and electrical implants in the body (for example, pacemakers, implants in the middle ear, etc.). This is due to the influence of a magnetic field on the body, which can damage the device (this problem does not occur with CT of the thoracic spine).

Other contraindications to the procedure include:

overweight (the scanner is able to withstand up to 150 kg of weight);
the presence of mental illness that does not allow you to maintain one position of the body;
epilepsy, claustrophobia, panic attacks;
the presence of tattoos with paints containing metal particles;
pregnancy (this contraindication is relative, since there is no reliable data on the negative impact of chest MRI on the fetus).

Types of procedure

MRI of the thoracic spine is performed in two ways:

using a contrast agent;
without using contrast.

The use of contrast agents is optional, but it improves image fidelity and increases the chance of correct diagnosis and appropriate therapy.

The procedure for conducting magnetic resonance imaging

The duration of diagnostics on MRI is from 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure includes two stages: preparation of the patient for examination and direct examination. The principle of the study includes the following steps:

Preparing the patient for the procedure. At the same time, all metal objects, removable electrical devices such as prostheses, hearing aids, etc. are removed. – such a measure is not required when performing a CT scan of the thoracic region.
Fixing the patient with rollers and straps on the couch (to maintain immobility).
Immersion of the patient in the tomograph and exposure to a magnetic field.

The tomograph capsule has a means of communication with technologists, a fan and lighting, so the procedure is as comfortable as possible.

How is an MRI performed? (video)

An alternative to MRI is diagnostics on a CT scanner

CT scan of the thoracic spine (computed tomography) - is prescribed when it is impossible to conduct magnetic resonance imaging. The CT procedure involves the detection of pathologies in the spine and chest organs using X-ray irradiation, so the method is not as safe as MRI.

In addition, a prerequisite for the examination is the introduction of contrast agents - MRI of the thoracic spine does not require such manipulations.

The advantage of CT of the thoracic region is the ability to perform the procedure for people who have electrical and metal implants. This is due to the fact that the method is based on the use of X-rays, which do not react to metal devices. The disadvantage of CT of the thoracic spine or organs lies in the lower information content of the procedure compared to MRI.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic technique based on the molecular properties of human body tissues to respond to the effects of an electromagnetic field. During the study, there is no ionizing radiation, so this procedure is safe for the patient. And high-precision equipment allows you to examine the studied organs in the smallest detail.

MRI of the thoracic spine is widely used in medical practice as one of the most effective ways to assess skeletal pathologies. With the help of such a study, doctors get an accurate picture of the state of the thoracic vertebrae and the soft tissues surrounding them, detect deviations and prescribe treatment in time, when the disease can still be defeated.

An MRI of the thoracic spine is mandatory when a patient needs surgery. The study is carried out both before and after surgery, as well as as part of postoperative monitoring.

MR imaging is indicated when needed:

diagnose osteochondrosis, stenosis, encephalomyelitis and a number of other pathologies;
identify foci of infections, tumor-like formations;
assess the degree of damage to the study area in case of fractures, bruises, displacement;
to control the condition of bone and surrounding tissues at the final stages of recovery.

The doctor also prescribes an MRI scan when the patient complains of discomfort in the chest area or between the shoulder blades. It can be pain, sensations of squeezing, tingling, sometimes with a “recoil” in the limb. Research is needed to determine the source of these symptoms.

Sometimes a problem in the thoracic spine causes pain in the heart, stomach, pancreas, liver, kidneys. With such symptoms, MRI becomes the stage of differential diagnosis.

How to prepare for an examination

Usually preparation (or diet) for an MRI of the thoracic spine is not needed. The procedure can even be performed on an outpatient basis. But you need to prepare for a magnetic resonance study with contrast (the drug is being prepared for intravenous administration for better visualization of the lesion in the intervertebral space) - the patient is preparing not to eat for 5-7 hours before the magnetic scanning session. If contrasting is planned, it is recommended to pass a urine test in advance to rule out kidney disease.

The rules of standard training include only a few points.

On the eve of the procedure, visit a therapist to exclude contraindications.
Warn the doctor about diseases and conditions that can interfere with the procedure - claustrophobia, epilepsy, and other neurological pathologies. You may need to take a sedative.
Before entering the office with a tomograph, you need to remove all metal and electronic items - belts, jewelry, braces, mobile devices, hearing aids, plastic cards, and so on.

How is an MRI of the spine done?

The entire MRI procedure of the thoracic spine takes approximately 20 minutes (when using a contrast agent - 40 minutes, it is injected before the device is turned on). Scanning proceeds as follows.

Before the start of the tomography, the client may be asked to put on a disposable hospital suit. Of your clothes, you are allowed to leave only underwear (if the fasteners of the bra have metal objects, this part of the wardrobe is also removed).
After changing clothes, the person is placed face up on the table of the apparatus. The head and limbs are fixed with straps, comfortable rollers are placed under them. These precautions are to ensure that the patient does not accidentally move and interfere with the accuracy of the result.
An MRI is done in the same way as a CT scan. The table with the patient slowly drives into the tunnel of the closed type scanner. If an open-type device with a movable table is used, then the screen with emitters and detectors is located exactly above the person.
The subject lies motionless while the scanner reads the information and transfers it to the computer. When the ring of the tomograph rotates, a slight noise is possible. If it causes discomfort, it is allowed to use earplugs. Otherwise, there are no inconveniences during the scanning procedure.

While the ward is lying on the table, the doctor, who is in the next room, watches him through the window and keeps in touch through a special intercom. The microphone is built into the tomograph camera.

At the end of the examination, the patient waits for the interpretation of the results and can go home. Rehabilitation is not required.

What will an MRI of the thoracic spine show?

Traumatologists, neuropathologists, vertebrologists and other specialists choose MRI of the thoracic spine because it shows in detail the structure of the vertebrae and surrounding tissues. It helps to identify and analyze:

congenital anomalies of the spinal cord, vertebrae;
degenerative changes in the anatomical structure and position of the intervertebral discs - hernias, protrusions and other forms of osteochondrosis;
violation of the structure and position of the vertebrae - spondylolisthesis and similar diseases;
damage, deformation of the spinal column of a traumatic nature;
stenosis and vascular pathologies of the brain canal of the back, including hemorrhages, stroke;
ankylosing spondylitis;
neoplasms in the tissues of the studied area, including malignant ones;
foci of inflammation and infection, including osteomyelitis.

By analyzing what an MRI of the spine can show in general, a specialist can:

find out the nature of anomalies in the intercostal space and spine - congenital or acquired, for example, as a result of trauma, chronic disease;
determine the degree of degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs;
control the development of ankylosing spondylitis, spondylolisthesis and other chronic pathologies;
assess the risk of strokes, hemorrhages;
understand whether the diameter of the spinal canal is normal and so on.

MR-tomography with contrast reveals the location of neoplasms and foci of infections. The coloring agent used is concentrated precisely in such places.

Indications for examination

MRI of the thoracic spine is indicated for:

diagnostics of osteochondrosis;
diagnosis of diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) with inherent demyelination;
identification of intercostal neuralgia;
detection of tumors and metastatic processes;
localization of foci of inflammation, development of infection, abscess;
detection of the narrowing of the spinal canal;
diagnosis of vascular pathologies;
assessment of the severity of traumatic injuries;
monitoring of chronic diseases, including congenital ones;
monitoring the condition before and after surgery;
complex diagnostics of systemic diseases.

Osteochondrosis is called "chameleon disease". Infringement of local nerves provokes the occurrence of pain in areas that are not usually associated with back problems. Often, clinical symptoms mislead narrow specialists who suspect diseases of internal organs - the heart, stomach or liver. MRI can help differentiate the diagnosis. It is indicated for patients who complain of:

acute pain in the heart, back between the shoulder blades;
girdle pain, feeling of stiffness, numbness in the chest;
shooting pain between ribs;
pain in the abdomen (in the stomach or liver), aggravated after exercise;
sexual dysfunction.

Contraindications

There are few contraindications for the study of the thoracic spine using the MRI method. One of the main ones is non-removable metal objects or devices that can affect the magnetic field. It:

metal implants, prostheses, vascular clips;
insulin pumps, cardiac and nerve stimulators, hearing aids.

Relative contraindications for scanning are claustrophobia, hyperkinesis and other conditions in which it will be difficult for the patient to be in the tunnel, keeping calm and still. Sometimes they resort to sedatives or immerse the subject in a drug-induced sleep. For the same reason, the procedure is rarely prescribed for children under 7 years of age.

Persons whose life support is supported by hardware are not allowed to the procedure. MRI is not recommended for pregnant women in the first trimester. There are restrictions on body weight (up to 130 kg), which is explained by the design of the equipment.

Conducting an MRI of the thoracic region with contrast is contraindicated in pregnant women, nursing mothers and patients suffering from renal insufficiency, as well as in case of an allergy to the components of the drug.

Survey results

The results are displayed on the workstation screen as a three-dimensional image. The diagnostician examines the data array (enlarges the necessary areas, examines sections, rotates the model), compares it with normal indicators and gives a conclusion. The patient is given an overview image of the thoracic region, a disk with files and a written transcript.

By the nature of the shape, color, contours, the diagnostician determines the presence of anomalies and the degree of their development. So, indicating in the decoding the fact of the presence of hyperechoic areas, he means inflammatory processes that are displayed on the screen in lighter shades. Other signs of pathologies:

the formation of meningioma is clearly manifested in areas of calcification;
neuroma resembles an hourglass in shape;
dark spots indicate thickening of the spinal cord.

In decoding, the diagnostician describes only the signs, and the diagnosis is made by a neurologist, neurosurgeon, traumatologist or other narrow specialist. Therefore, you need to ask a doctor about the identified diseases.

What happens after research

After the end of the tomography session, the patient does not need rest or recovery. He can go back to his business while the transcript is being prepared.

As a rule, the conclusion is issued within an hour. In complex cases, the preparation of the description may take up to a day.

oncologist - in case of detection of tumor-like formations;
traumatologist - in case of displacement of the disc or vertebra;
neurosurgeon - with indications for surgical intervention;
vertebrologist - for the complex treatment of osteochondrosis;
neurologist for the treatment of neurological diseases - in the diagnosis of pathologies of the spinal cord, neurological symptoms.

Benefits and Alternatives

MRI of the thoracic spine is an informative method, indispensable for obtaining a picture of the state of soft tissues, cartilage, and brain structures. It is most accurate in diagnosing pathologies of the joints, blood vessels, and the nervous system.

Another advantage is absolute security. During the study, there is no ionizing radiation, and electromagnetic pulses are not capable of causing harm.

An alternative to magnetic resonance imaging in the study of the spine is computed tomography (CT). Although these methods cannot be called interchangeable. CT is based on the analysis of the passage of x-rays (therefore, the degree of safety is lower), it gives a more detailed picture of the state of hard (bone) tissues and more effectively detects bleeding.

Research cost

Equipment for magnetic resonance imaging is expensive, so only large diagnostic centers can afford it.

The price of one procedure ranges from 3500-5500 rubles. The use of contrast, consulting, decoding, saving images on a removable media, and other services are additionally paid.

The method of magnetic resonance imaging is widely used in modern medicine. Such devices are located in most clinics and medical centers, allowing you to quickly and, most importantly, accurately diagnose possible diseases.

Many people are afraid of bulky tomographs, fearing an irreversible effect on the body, but in fact, this type of diagnostic is absolutely harmless to the body. Especially if you follow the basic rules given in the article below.

The article will be useful not only to familiarize ordinary users with it, but also to help people who are assigned this procedure to understand the process itself and find out what the tomograph will show you. In this material, you can get acquainted with the principles of operation of the MRI machine, indications for its implementation and, conversely, contraindications.

MRI of the thoracic spine

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique used primarily in medical settings to provide high-quality images of the human body's organs. MRI is based on the principles of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), a spectroscopy technique used by scientists to obtain data on the chemical and physical properties of molecules.

The method was called magnetic resonance imaging rather than nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) due to negative associations with the word "nuclear" in the late 1970s. MRI got its start as a tomographic imaging technique that produces images of the NMR signal from thin sections passing through the human body.

MRI has evolved from a tomographic imaging technique to a volumetric imaging technique. This training package provides a comprehensive overview of the basic principles of MRI. Before starting to study the scientific aspects of MRI, it will be useful to dwell on a brief history of MRI.

In 1946, Bloch and Purcell independently discovered the phenomenon of magnetic resonance and were both awarded the Nobel Prize in 1952. Between 1950 and 1970, NMR was developed and used for chemical and physical molecular analysis. In 1972, X-ray computed tomography (CT) was introduced.

This date was an important milestone in the history of MRI, as it showed that hospitals were willing to spend large sums of money on imaging medical equipment. In 1973, Lauterbur demonstrated imaging using NMR and the back projection technique used in CT.

In 1975, Ernst proposed magnetic resonance imaging using phase and frequency coding, a technique that is currently used in MRI. Edelstein and co-workers demonstrated the mapping of the human body in 1980 using this method. It took approximately 5 minutes to acquire one image. By 1986, the display time had been reduced to 5 seconds without any significant loss in quality.

In the same year, an NMR microscope was created that allowed achieving a resolution of 10 mm on samples of 1 cm in size. In 1988, Dumoulin improved MRI angiography, which made it possible to display flowing blood without the use of contrast agents. In 1989, a planar tomography method was introduced that allowed images to be captured at video frequencies (30 ms).

Many clinicians thought that this method would find application in dynamic MRI of the joints, but instead, it was used to image areas of the brain responsible for thinking and motor activity.

In 1991, Richard Ernst was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his achievements in pulsed NMR and MRI.

In 1994, researchers at New York State University at Stony Brock and Princeton University demonstrated hyperpolarized 129-Xe gas imaging for respiration studies. MRI is a young but developing science.

MRI is a non-invasive method of radiation diagnostics for the detection of diseases:

without cuts;
with the help of radio beams;
There is no harm in MRI examination.

The MRI method is not only non-invasive, but also harmless, since it does not use X-rays (ionizing radiation), but radio beams.

As a rule, MRI of the thoracic spine is absolutely painless. To date, this diagnostic method is considered the most accurate of those that do not require violation of the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes. Despite this, many are afraid to undergo an examination only because they do not know how an MRI of the thoracic spine is done.

An MRI machine (magnetic resonance imaging) is a tube consisting of a metal wire wound around a ring. In engineering, such a pipe is called a "solenoid". Modern magnets are made from a special wire (an alloy of niobium and titanium) cooled with liquid helium to a very low temperature.

A current is passed through the wire, and a strong magnetic field appears inside the ring (tube of the MR tomograph). In addition to a constant magnetic field during MRI studies, additional short-term magnetic fields (gradients) are created.

The application of short-term magnetic fields is accompanied by a "thump" - rather loud monotonous sounds, and this is the only "real" harm from MRI. To prevent the knock from disturbing the patient, soundproof plugs (ear plugs) are inserted into his ears. Radio frequency beams are not accompanied by noise and are not felt in any way.

The magnet is the main part of the NMR tomograph, its “heart”. In the 90s of the last century, long magnets were made - during an MRI examination, the patient was placed entirely in the magnet. In the short closed tomographs produced in our time, the body partially remains outside, and the part of the patient's body examined on the MRI is always placed in the center of the magnet.

First of all, the patient is placed inside a large magnet, where there is a fairly strong constant (static) magnetic field, oriented in most devices along the patient's body. Under the influence of this field, the nuclei of hydrogen atoms in the patient's body, which are small magnets, each with its own weak magnetic field, are oriented in a certain way relative to the strong field of the magnet.

By adding a weak alternating magnetic field to a static magnetic field, the area to be imaged is selected. The patient is then irradiated with radio waves, the frequency of the radio waves being adjusted so that the protons in the patient's body can absorb some of the radio wave energy and reorient their magnetic fields relative to the direction of the static magnetic field.

Immediately after the cessation of irradiation of the patient with radio waves, the protons will return to their original states, radiating the received energy, and this re-emission will cause the appearance of an electric current in the receiving coils of the tomograph. The registered currents are MR signals that are converted by a computer and used to build (reconstruct) an MRI. According to the stages of the study, the main components of any MR tomograph are:

a magnet that creates a constant (static), so-called external, magnetic field in which the patient is placed
gradient coils that create a weak alternating magnetic field in the central part of the main magnet, called a gradient, which allows you to select the area of study of the patient's body
radiofrequency coils - transmitting, used to create excitation in the patient's body, and receiving - to register the response of excited areas
a computer that controls the operation of the gradient and radio frequency coils, registers the measured signals, processes them, records them in its memory and uses them for MRI reconstruction.

The attending doctor or nursing staff will inform the patient in detail about how the MRI procedure of the thoracic spine is performed.

The patient is dressed in disposable clothes, placed on a special mobile table and fixed with a system of belts and rollers. This will help him stay still, as MRI of the thoracic spine takes some time, and movement provokes the appearance of inaccuracies in the pictures.

After that, the table is positioned so that the part of the body being examined (in our case, the thoracic region) is in the annular part of the apparatus, and a series of images is taken.
To help pass the time, many diagnostic centers offer to listen to music while the thoracic spine MRI is being performed.

With the help of magnetic resonance imaging, even minor pathological changes can be diagnosed. If we take into account the characteristics of diseases of the central nervous system, then early diagnosis and timely treatment are the factors that play a decisive role for the life and health of the patient.

MRI of the thoracic spine - what shows

The spine is a static element of the skeleton. All physical activity, even elementary walking, falls on it, so it is not surprising that many problems in our body affect this particular place. MRI of the thoracic spine helps to identify these disorders in the early stages, and the person is able to restore their former strength.

MRI is the most accurate examination of the spine. The installation interacts with hydrogen atoms in the organs being diagnosed through a magnetic field, receives signals and gives a detailed picture of the state of the vertebrae, discs and surrounding tissues.

Such diagnostics helps to determine blood flow disorders in vessels of various calibers, neoplasms, various developmental anomalies, changes in the cartilaginous structures of the intervertebral discs and tissues surrounding the spinal column.

The images of the spine obtained during the study allow the doctor to fully assess the patient's condition and make the correct diagnosis. The fact is that during the examination, not only the vertebral bodies are perfectly visualized, but also the intervertebral discs, the spinal cord, as well as the nerve roots and joints of the spinal column.

Magnetic resonance imaging is very often used in such areas of modern medicine as neurology, oncology, neurosurgery in order to determine the disease (diagnosis) and the stage of its development, address the issue of the need for such a serious intervention as surgery, as well as control the effectiveness of the treatment.

It is worth noting that this diagnosis is carried out not only for the spine, but also for other parts of the musculoskeletal system - doctors often prescribe, for example, an MRI of the shoulder joint. During the study, the doctor receives images that allow you to fully assess changes in the structure of the vertebrae, their connection in the joints, intervertebral discs, the spinal cord with nerve roots extending from it, blood vessels with a contrast agent, as well as surrounding soft tissues.

MRI of the thoracic spine is often used to examine the internal structure of the spine in this area. The spread of diseases of the thoracic spine, and as a result, the use of MRI, contributed to many factors: increased physical activity, widespread use of computers, in addition, we lead a more mobile lifestyle in old age than previous generations.

If you have injured your back or suffer from chronic back pain, your doctor will likely order an x-ray. After that, an MRI may be needed to clarify the diagnosis. MRI of the thoracic spine excludes:

Diseases of the intervertebral discs
The intervertebral disc is a shock absorber located between the vertebral bodies. Trauma, disc degeneration, hernia, compression of adjacent nerve fibers are possible. In the picture on the right, they look like flat formations between gray, square-shaped bones (vertebral bodies).
Hernia
If there is a rupture of the outer part of the disc, the jelly-like substance of the nucleus pulposus can “leak out” and cause radiating pain or weakness in the muscles of the neck, back, and arms.
Stenosis
It is a narrowing of the spinal canal and openings of the spinal nerves. Herniated discs and other degenerative changes can narrow the spinal canal, causing pain or weakness.

Preparation for MRI of the thoracic spine

MRI is a remote and safe diagnostic method, a reliable study that provides a maximum of useful information to a specialist.

With all these advantages, one would expect that at least in some ways tomography would be no better than other procedures: for example, it would require a long and complex preparation.

However, this is not so: preparatory measures are required only when the study is planned to be done with contrast, and their duration is quite short (it is limited to the day of the study). Preparation consists in the fact that you need to come to the procedure on an empty stomach, so that at least 5-6 hours have passed after the previous meal.

There is no need to prepare for an x-ray of the cervical spine. If it is planned to perform an x-ray of the cervicothoracic region, then it is necessary to clean the intestines. The patient must follow a diet for 3 days and not eat foods that increase gas formation. The study is performed on an empty stomach. Immediately before the procedure, you must remove clothes to the waist.

If there are jewelry, they will also be asked to remove it. Some medical facilities may provide a hospital gown. This is due to the fact that metal buttons, zippers and fasteners may be present on clothing, which interferes with the normal conduct of the study.

Next, the patient should lean against the device with the part of the body necessary for the study and press tightly. The laboratory assistant will show you how to stand and turn correctly to obtain images of various projections.

Contrast is required when diagnosing vascular diseases or when cancer is suspected. In the first case, the contrast stains the vessels and marks the areas of its distribution along the bloodstream with a characteristic “glow” in the images. This allows you to identify the presence of narrowing and expansion in the arteries, to localize places of impaired blood circulation, etc.

In the second case, when diagnosing tumors, the drug passes into the tissues and is captured by the cells, accumulating especially well in areas with rich blood circulation, which are neoplasms. MRI of the cervical region with contrast is necessary if it is necessary to make a conclusion about the presence of a tumor or metastases in soft tissues and bones; All this helps doctors to decide on the prospects for treatment.

Indications for MRI

Why do I need to undergo magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracic spine? To understand this will help a small digression in particular in this section of the spine.

The thoracic region is a rigid frame in which twelve vertebrae, ribs and sternum are combined. The vertebrae and ribs are connected by joints, the ribs on both sides in front are merged with the sternum. The vertebrae of this department suffer less from injuries, their movements relative to each other are severely limited. However, painful phenomena in this area of the back are quite common.

Dystrophic pathologies of the column occur due to metabolic disorders, weakening of the nutrition of the disks. Lifting weights with improper load distribution also leads to changes in the discs and prerequisites for osteochondrosis.

Problems with the joints of the spine is one of the reasons for the decrease in the holes through which the nerve fibers exit. Squeezing them leads to pain in the area of the organs for which they are responsible. This procedure is mainly prescribed by a doctor, but it can also be carried out at the request of the patient.

The main situations that require an MRI of the thoracic spine:

traumatic injuries accompanied by fractures and damage to the spinal cord, as well as those conditions that are not visible on a conventional x-ray;
osteochondrosis of the thoracic region;
congenital anomalies in the development of the vertebrae and its elements;
herniated discs;
demyelinating diseases of the nervous system - acute multiple sclerosis and encephalomyelitis, which are diagnosed only by this method;
spinal tumors, or secondary metastatic foci arising from hematogenous spread from other tumor foci;
stenosis of the spinal canal at the level of the thoracic region;
diseases that carry an infectious focus (abscess of the spinal cord);
circulatory disorders and anomalies of the vessels of both the arterial and venous bed - performed together with the administration of a contrast agent;
inflammatory diseases (Bekhterev's disease);
destructive processes (spondylitis of tuberculous etiology, osteomyelitis);
pain in the thoracic region, radicular syndrome, tingling and numbness in the limbs, shooting sensations in the back, which have an unclear origin and are not diagnosed by other research methods;
intercostal neuralgia;
preoperative examination of the proposed site of intervention;
post-surgical monitoring.

Any disease is not always limited to only one area of the spine and can spread either up or down. To exclude or confirm the diffuse process, an MRI of three parts of the spine is used, which is prescribed if the localization of the process is suspected not only in the thoracic region, but also in the cervical region.

Contraindications

MRI of the spine can be done only according to indications. Despite the fact that the method is not characterized by radiation exposure to the patient, there are also contraindications for MRI of the spine. A strong magnetic field leads to nuclear magnetic resonance in cells.

Its negative effects on human health have not been scientifically proven, but you should beware of the use of magnetic resonance imaging in children. What are the contraindications for MRI of the spine? MRI of the spine can be done with suspicion of intervertebral hernia, narrowing of the spinal canal, the presence of tumors in the soft tissues.

Contraindications for MRI:

With nervous disorders and experiences that allow you to stay immobile for a long time;
With a person weighing more than 200 kilograms;
The presence of implanted prostheses;
Installation of hemostatic clips after neurosurgical interventions;
Pregnancy in the first trimester;
Severe irritation of the skin.

Before the MRI procedure, the medical staff will definitely ask you about the presence of diseases in order to identify limitations and contraindications to the procedure. Limitations and contraindications arise with magnetic resonance imaging due to its properties:

The attraction of metal objects;
Strong magnetic field.

These features during the operation of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus cause contraindications and limitations to the procedure. Under the influence of a strong magnetic field, all metal objects move. Even if they are in soft tissues, magnetic resonance is able to bring them out of equilibrium.

As a result, MRI of the spine can only be done when there are no metal objects in the patient's body. Magnetic interference disrupts the operation of implanted devices, pacemakers, hearing aids, pacemakers.

Information carriers, such as magnetic disks, flash memory, mobile phones, and credit cards, must not be placed in the zone of influence of the magnetic resonance tomograph. If they are in the patient's pocket, they can not only distort information, but also cause tissue damage.

When a person is afraid of closed spaces (claustrophobia), when a diagnostic apparatus is placed in a tunnel, a person experiences attacks of fear. For such people, magnetic resonance imaging can be done, but only after the introduction of special preparations.

Limitations to MRI scanning arise in the presence of nerve stimulators, prosthetic heart valves, insulin pumps, hemostatic forceps and clips, in the presence of decompensated heart failure. Tattoos with metallic inclusions (contain dyes) are a contraindication to the procedure.

In prosthetics, titanium is used, which is part of dental fillings. It is practically safe and is not a limitation for MRI scanning. With dentures, often magnetic resonance imaging should not be done.

MRI of the spine in children can be done only in emergency cases. This may require sedation (administration of sedatives) or anesthesia. Due to the unstable behavior of the child, he should be calmed either with medication or narcotic drugs. Because of these characteristics, children should not have frequent MRI scans.

An MRI of the thoracic spine shows:

Bones
Thoracic MRI scans show the thoracic vertebral bodies and all of their processes, as well as the upper lumbar spine and lower cervical spine. MRI of the thoracic spine can detect fractures, tumors, infectious lesions and assess postoperative changes. MRI allows you to determine the severity of degenerative changes (arthritis) and is used to prepare for surgical interventions on the spine (including arthrodesis).
Intervertebral discs
On MRI images of the thoracic spine, intervertebral discs are well visualized, which makes it possible to identify prolapse, protrusion, hernia, and infectious lesions (discitis).
spinal canal
The spinal nerves leave the spinal cord and leave the spinal canal through the foramina of the same name. The channel itself or the holes can be blocked, which causes pain or weakness of the muscles of the back, chest, upper limbs.
soft tissues
These include the muscles and other tissues that surround the thoracic spine. An MRI of the thoracic spine can detect infectious lesions or tumors of these structures, accumulations of fluid, and the lungs and heart are also partially visible.

After the MRI, the specialist needs time to analyze the obtained images. Usually, it is possible to pick up the results of the study within an hour, but in difficult cases, the conclusion is issued only after a day.

With the results of the diagnosis, you must contact your doctor, who will tell the patient about his state of health. The assessment of the spinal column is carried out taking into account the following criteria:

analysis of the shape and size of the spine and spinal cord
determination of the subarachnoid space on the obtained images
spinal cord width analysis
detection of petrificators and calcium salts in soft tissues
evaluation of cystic masses
identification of the focus of localization of pathology

In the event that a specialist suspects the development of a malignant neoplasm in the thoracic spine, the patient is recommended to visit an oncologist and a neurosurgeon. If you suspect various pathologies of the spinal cord or spine, you should seek advice from an experienced neurologist.

If a patient develops a pain syndrome and other problems in the spine, a traumatologist should be visited, and if surgery is necessary, a visit to a neurosurgeon is scheduled.

And in the event that the study was carried out at the initiative of the patient himself, then he will have to turn to the hoofed doctor himself to decipher them. So, if there is a suspicion of the presence of a tumor, it is necessary to visit such doctors as a neurosurgeon and an oncologist.

Advantages of MRI of the thoracic spine and its alternatives

The main advantage of this procedure, which relates not only to MRI of the spine, but also to the method of magnetic resonance imaging in general, is its safety for the patient's health. Although MRI images are similar to x-rays, they are obtained by scanning the body with magnetic waves, and not by “transilluminating” it with ionizing radiation. Penetrating into tissues, magnetic waves are reflected from the nuclei of hydrogen ions and come back without causing the slightest harm to the internal structures of the body.

MRI in many respects is more sensitive and accurate than other methods used to diagnose spinal pathology. Images can be obtained in any planes, they are "slices" of the body, unlike, for example, X-ray images, which look like a layering of shadows.

In addition, the soft tissues surrounding the spinal column and the spinal cord are very clearly visible during tomography. Thanks to this, a specialist can assess the extent of any disease process and its spread from the primary focus to neighboring anatomical structures.

If the purpose of the study is to diagnose diseases of the spinal cord, the method acquires another advantage: the procedure can be performed without contrast. The outdated myelography technique was deprived of this advantage: first, using a needle, it was required to introduce contrast into the spinal canal, in which the spinal cord is located, and then take the required number of images.

This was associated with a number of possible complications, from infection to spinal cord injury. Fortunately, MRI is performed without unnecessary risks and even without the need to touch the patient. MRI is deservedly considered one of the most informative and safe studies. Due to the absence of such a harmful factor as radiation exposure, this examination, unlike x-rays and computed tomography, can be repeated several times without any harm to the body.

The accuracy of the data obtained during this procedure is not in doubt. True, in the process of examining a patient with spinal pathology, additional diagnostics are sometimes required, for example, MRI of the lumbosacral spine.

There are also alternative methods for studying the musculoskeletal system - these include, first of all, computed tomography and x-rays. Unfortunately, they can only detect metastases or fractures - a pathology affecting bone structures.

In other cases (circulatory disorders, cartilage neoplasms, hernias and other pathologies), magnetic resonance imaging remains an indispensable method of instrumental diagnostics, the use of which helps to quickly and accurately diagnose. When diagnosing various pathologies in the region of the spinal cord, computed tomography using a contrast agent can be performed.

So, such a procedure as MRI of the spine allows timely detection of various pathologies of the spinal column, which are localized, including in its thoracic region. Thanks to this research, doctors have a great opportunity to begin treatment of the disease in its early stages.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_twNfA4-0vI&t=41s
Sources: cis.rit.edu trauma.ru npanchenko.ru testpuls.ru spina-sustav.ru mrt-rus.info tvoypozvonok.ru osteohondroza.net 1-mrt.ru

megan92 2 weeks ago

Tell me, who is struggling with pain in the joints? My knees hurt terribly ((I drink painkillers, but I understand that I am struggling with the consequence, and not with the cause ... Nifiga does not help!

Daria 2 weeks ago

I struggled with my sore joints for several years until I read this article by some Chinese doctor. And for a long time I forgot about the "incurable" joints. Such are the things

megan92 13 days ago

Daria 12 days ago

megan92, so I wrote in my first comment) Well, I'll duplicate it, it's not difficult for me, catch - link to professor's article.

Sonya 10 days ago

Isn't this a divorce? Why the Internet sell ah?

Yulek26 10 days ago

Sonya, what country do you live in? .. They sell on the Internet, because shops and pharmacies set their margins brutal. In addition, payment is only after receipt, that is, they first looked, checked and only then paid. Yes, and now everything is sold on the Internet - from clothes to TVs, furniture and cars.

Editorial response 10 days ago

Sonya, hello. This drug for the treatment of joints is really not sold through the pharmacy network in order to avoid inflated prices. Currently, you can only order Official site. Be healthy!

Sonya 10 days ago

Sorry, I didn't notice at first the information about the cash on delivery. Then, it's OK! Everything is in order - exactly, if payment upon receipt. Thank you so much!!))

Margo 8 days ago

Has anyone tried traditional methods of treating joints? Grandmother does not trust pills, the poor woman has been suffering from pain for many years ...

Andrew a week ago

What kind of folk remedies I have not tried, nothing helped, it only got worse ...

Ekaterina a week ago

I tried to drink a decoction of bay leaves, to no avail, only ruined my stomach !! I no longer believe in these folk methods - complete nonsense !!

Maria 5 days ago

Recently I watched a program on the first channel, there is also about this Federal program for the fight against diseases of the joints spoke. It is also headed by some well-known Chinese professor. They say they have found a way to permanently cure the joints and back, and the state fully finances the treatment for each patient

They do the most accurate studies of the spine. The installation interacts with hydrogen atoms in the organs being diagnosed through a magnetic field, receives signals and gives a detailed picture of the state of the vertebrae, discs and surrounding tissues.

Why you need to undergo magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracic spine

To understand this will help a small digression in particular in this section of the spine. The thoracic region is a rigid frame in which twelve vertebrae, ribs and sternum are combined. The vertebrae and ribs are connected by joints, the ribs on both sides in front are merged with the sternum.

The vertebrae of this department suffer less from injuries, their movements relative to each other are severely limited. However, painful phenomena in this area of the back are quite common.

Problems with the joints of the spine is one of the reasons for the decrease in the holes through which the nerve fibers exit. Squeezing them leads to pain in the area of the organs for which they are responsible.

Often, pain in the stomach, heart, pancreas, liver, kidneys is caused by problems in the thoracic spine. The MRI procedure can clarify the cause of pain and establish a diagnosis with great accuracy.

What will the MRI show?

The study will provide information on the condition of the hard and soft tissues of the thoracic region, will reveal the presence of pathologies in it.

The photo shows images of the thoracic spine taken using MRI

With the help of MRI, the following diseases are diagnosed:

congenital anomalies of the vertebrae,
disorders in the development of the spinal cord from birth,
spinal injury,
degenerative changes in discs, vertebrae,
narrowing of the spinal canal
ankylosing spondylitis,
education in the thoracic region,
hemorrhages, stroke and other vascular problems of the spinal cord,
spondylolisthesis,
pathology of the spine of an infectious nature,
violation of the anatomical location of the vertebrae,
spinal column deformities.

Indications for carrying out

Systematic pain in the back is a signal of the need to establish the cause of this phenomenon. It is necessary to make the diagnosis of the thoracic region in the most informative way - MRI.

Indications for examination may be the following signs:

heart-like pain
discomfort between the shoulder blades,
chest pain, which has a girdle character,
lumbago in the region of the intercostal nerves (intercostal neuralgia),
feeling of tightness in the chest,
feeling of numbness in the chest,
pain in the epigastric region, aggravated after physical work,
discomfort in the liver
genital dysfunction.

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic region masquerades as symptoms of functional disorders of organs that are subordinate to the corresponding nerves that are oppressed. "Chameleon disease" skillfully misleads patients and narrow specialists to whom they turn.

An incomplete list of diseases whose symptoms can be triggered by osteochondrosis:

colitis,
gastritis,
appendicitis,
peptic ulcer,
cholecystitis,
renal colic,
angina,
heart attack.

If the disease is already observed by specialists, then the indication for diagnosis may be:

Clarification of studies conducted by other methods, for example,.
Tracking the effectiveness of treatment.
Preparation for surgery.

Contraindications for diagnosis

How to prepare for the procedure

Before the study, it is necessary to leave the area of the magnetic field:
- all metal objects: jewelry, coins and so on,
- devices that can react to the impact of the device: mobile phones, hearing aids, cards and other items of this kind.
When diagnosing with the use of a contrast agent, do not eat for four hours before the procedure.

How do they do

The procedure is painless and does not bring any discomfort. Some devices make noise, it does not add inconvenience, because it is not loud. The duration of the study is twenty minutes, if contrast is used - forty minutes.

Price

The cost of the procedure depends on the quality of the equipment in the examination center and the pricing policy.

On average, you have to pay for the diagnosis.