MRI of the neck is performed for indications suggesting pathology of the anatomy that sits mostly in front of the vertebrae (spinal column), to diagnose injuries, abnormalities, inflammations, or tumours. MRI Neck can also mean MRI of the C-spine (cervical portion of the spine) and be indicated for pain, crepitus, paresthesia or neuropathy of the upper extremities.
Contrast (dye)
Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.
It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Blood vessels
- Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue
The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.
Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye
Scan Type |
---|
Cervical spine (neck) MRI |
Lymph nodes MRI |
Soft tissue neck MRI |
Thyroid and Parathyroid MRI |