Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar-sacral spine without contrast, Lublin

Why is it worth doing with us?

Description of the study 

MRI of the lumbar-sacral spine enables a detailed assessment of the bony structures, intervertebral discs, spinal canal, and spinal cord. The examination can detect disc herniation, degenerative changes , nerve root compression, inflammation, and tumors, among other conditions. It is non-invasive, safe, and can be performed with or without contrast.

At CM LUXMED Lublin, we perform examinations using the GE MR 1.5T 450W GEM system with 32 channels, which can reduce diagnostic time by up to half and provides high-precision 3D imaging. Thanks to its wide opening (70 cm) and table load capacity of up to 226 kg, the examination is also comfortable for those concerned about the feeling of being locked in or for those who are overweight.

When should an MRI of the lumbar-sacral spine be performed?

Your doctor may order an abdominal MRI with contrast if:

• suspected tumors of the liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen,
• detection of cancer metastases,
• diagnosis of cysts and inflammatory changes,
• monitoring the effectiveness of cancer treatment,
• assessment of the abdominal vessels and biliary system,
• post-operative check-ups.

This is one of the most accurate imaging tests, allowing us to see elements of the abdominal cavity that are not accessible with ultrasound or X-ray.

What does the examination look like?

Thanks to Acoustic Reduction technology, the device operates more quietly than standard MRIs. Shorter scanning times, a wide aperture, and 3D imaging capabilities make the examination comfortable and less stressful.

The examination itself runs smoothly because you feel more comfortable – the resonance imaging is spacious (the opening is up to 70 cm in diameter), reduces the feeling of being closed in and allows for comfortable and safe diagnosis even with a weight of up to 226 kg.

Preparation for MRI of the lumbar-sacral spine without contrast at CM Luxmed Lublin

Before each examination at Luxmed Rezonans Lublin, please inform the clinic staff of all relevant health factors. This includes:

• drug allergies,
• kidney failure, diabetes, hypertension,
• diseases such as myeloma or hyperthyroidism,
• medications taken on a regular basis.

It is also important to report the presence of a pacemaker, insulin pump, metal implants, stents, clips, shrapnel, bullets, and previous bypass surgery. Information about the implant material or brand name should be included in the medical records . Additionally, claustrophobia should be reported, as this may require an individualized approach.

Weight restrictions: MRI machines at CM Luxmed Lublin allow for the examination of patients weighing up to 226 kg.

Practical tips before MRI of the lumbar-sacral spine:

✓ Bring any previous test results for the organ being examined (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI).
✓ Wear comfortable clothing without metal elements such as buttons, zippers, or belts.
✓ Leave metal objects, your phone, and jewelry in the changing room before entering the room.
✓ If you take regular medications, you should take them as normal on the day of your examination.
✓ Report to the Luxmed Rezonans Lublin 30 minutes before your scheduled examination time with your ID.

MRI of the lumbosacral spine without contrast:

• No additional preparation or creatinine testing required.

MRI of the lumbosacral spine with contrast:

• Blood creatinine levels should be measured no later than 7 days before the test.
• The last meal should be eaten no later than 5 hours before the examination; you can drink still water.

Contraindications to performing magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar-sacral spine

In the MRI lab, patient safety is a priority, so before you book your appointment, check whether you have any contraindications, which are divided into absolute and relative.

Absolute contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar-sacral spine:

• patient weight exceeding 226 kg,
• pacemaker, pacemakers or neurostimulators,
• pregnancy (inform the laboratory staff) – examination without contrast is possible only after assessing the diagnostic risks and benefits after the first trimester,
• invasive surgical, aesthetic or diagnostic procedures within the last 6 weeks (you must wait at least 6 weeks after the procedure, regardless of the body part being examined),
• metal foreign bodies in the eyeball (if in doubt, an X-ray of the eye sockets is performed),
• insulin pump, hearing implant, internal hearing aid, ossicular plastic surgery or cochlear implant containing ferromagnetic metals.

Relative contraindications to MRI of the spine:

• the presence of ferromagnetic metals, orthodontic appliances or other metal elements in the body – examination is often possible, but may cause artifacts or local heating of tissues,
• vascular clips – MRI can be performed 6 weeks after the procedure,
• tattoos or permanent makeup – waiting 6 weeks after the procedure.

Contraindications to contrast agent administration:

• severe renal failure (eGFR < 30) – testing possible only in life situations,
• pregnancy – necessary assessment of diagnostic risks and benefits,
• allergy to contrast agent – ​​very rare cases.

Additional notes:

• dialysis patients do not have to change the date of dialysis,
• Breastfeeding: for non-contrast examinations, it is not necessary to interrupt breastfeeding.

FAQ