Why MRI is more effective in detecting spinal problems

Magnetic resonance imaging of the coccyx is a research method that allows you to detect pathology in this part of the spine. This method can help identify neoplasms, traumatic injuries and developmental abnormalities. MRI is an innovative method of radiation diagnostics, since it does not use ionizing radiation, but phenomena that are safer for the human body, such as an electromagnetic field and radio frequency pulses. The method is based on the properties of hydrogen atoms to specifically respond to magnetic radiation, thereby creating the possibility of visualizing the insides of the human body.

What is MRI?

The magnetic resonance imaging method is based on the impact of electromagnetic pulses on the body, which cause resonance - the response of hydrogen atoms in the form of their movement. A tomograph measures the energy emitted by nuclei. The received data is transferred to a computer, processed by a special program and displayed on the screen as an image.

Thanks to a large number of layered images, a three-dimensional picture with a high degree of detail is obtained. The doctor can examine the smallest signs of pathologies and diseases. Typically, during MRI of the lumbosacral region, the slice thickness is 1-3 mm.

Fabrics of different densities look different in the resulting picture. Hernias and tumors, bone displacement and the inflammatory process are clearly visible on the screen. That is why it is possible to identify pathologies at the earliest stages of their development.

MRI of the sacrum and lumbar region is mainly performed to study nerve fibers and muscle tissue, fiber and ligaments, and the vascular system of the spinal column. This method allows you to visualize the location of cartilage and bone elements.

What happens during an MRI?

The study is carried out in special rooms, they consist of two rooms, the first contains a tomograph where the patient will be placed, and the other room houses the staff during the study. The table with the patient enters the tomograph, where the examination will be carried out. The second room is separated from the first by a glass partition, so the doctor can monitor the patient during the procedure. The tomograph makes noise during the examination. MRI is an absolutely painless and harmless procedure.

Comparison with other methods

Other methods can be used to study the lumbosacral region. Previously, pathologies in this area were identified using x-rays - x-raying the human body using electromagnetic waves of a certain length. They are called X-rays.

This technique is simple and cheap, but at this wavelength it has a harmful effect on the body. Its result can be the development of pathologies, including life-threatening ones. In addition, x-rays do not make it possible to obtain a three-dimensional image and examine all the details of the structure under study. As a result of the procedure, a shadow image is obtained that only follows the contours of the internal organs.

Computed tomography is a more modern method that provides a clear layer-by-layer image of the object of study. The procedure takes longer than an x-ray, but the resulting image can be rotated on a computer screen, which increases diagnostic capabilities. The radiation dose to the patient's body with CT is lower than with X-rays, but ionizing radiation is still present. For this reason, the procedure should not be performed too often.

The essence of the method

This diagnostic method is unique because it makes it possible not to shift or change the position of the patient, if it is necessary to examine not only the coccyx, but also the upper parts of the spine, which is ensured using special tomograph sensors. MRI of the coccyx is a safe diagnostic method, since X-ray ionizing radiation is not used during the examination, and thanks to this, this examination can be carried out many times without causing harm to the human body.

MRI of the coccyx is performed in three projections: transverse, longitudinal and sagittal. After conducting the study, the results are usually printed on film, or they can be entered into a computer or saved on disk.

Content:

• The essence of the method
• What is the tailbone?
• Indications for MRI
• Contraindications to the procedure
• Preparation for the procedure
• What happens during an MRI?
• Benefits of MRI of the coccyx

Benefits of MRI

Against this background, MRI of the lumbar region and sacral region has obvious advantages:

• Provides identification of minor signs of pathology that are not visible on CT;
• Doesn't take much time;
• Makes it possible to examine patients whose condition is assessed as serious;
• Allows you to build two- and three-dimensional images of various body structures, from bones to internal organs;
• Helps not only to detect pathology in the lumbar region, but also to assess the extent of its prevalence;
• Provides image acquisition in any plane without changing the patient’s position;
• Does not pose a risk of infection or harmful radiation exposure.

MRI of the sacrolumbar region can be done at any frequency. This is important for checking the effectiveness of treatment, and, if necessary, adjusting it, as well as for monitoring the condition of the body after surgery.

How long does a lumbosacral MRI take?

Preparatory activities (filling out forms, instructions) take no more than 10 minutes. The time spent on the active phase of the procedure depends on the type of study and the class of the tomograph.

Native scanning of one area on modern closed high-field equipment takes 15 minutes. The use of additional programs allows you to study several parts of the spine at once in less than half an hour, without moving the patient’s body. A contrast-enhanced MRI lasts 30 minutes. Preparing results takes up to one hour.

When should you get tested?

MRI of the lumbosacral spine is performed if there are signs of pathological conditions, including:

• Sharp or aching, pulling or shooting, chronic or periodic pain in the back, lower back;
• Weakness or impaired mobility of the lower extremities;
• Pain radiating to the buttock, groin or leg;
• Limited mobility in the lower back;
• Morning stiffness;
• Sexual dysfunction;
• Disorders of defecation and urination.

An indication for an MRI may be partial paralysis that develops after injury to the lumbar or sacral spine, or the need to monitor a hernia. After 35 years, it is recommended to undergo such a study annually for preventive purposes.

Interpretation of MRI photographs of the lumbosacral region

The conclusion is drawn up immediately after the scan is completed. The obtained MR images are studied, paying special attention to signs of pathological changes. The following anatomical structures are visible on sections of the lumbosacral region:

• spinal cord;
• vertebrae;
• nervous;
• large arteries and veins;
• ligaments;
• muscles;
• intervertebral discs.

Postoperative cicatricial adhesive changes (circled) on an MRI scan

Special knowledge and experience help the doctor quickly find deviations from the norm. Digital equipment allows you to adjust the size of images, examine areas adjacent to the pathological area, and compare sections of the same area taken in different modes. By assessing the intensity of the MR signal, assumptions are made about the nature of the changes. In conclusion, a complete description of the pathological focus is indicated. Images are recorded on digital media. If necessary, the most significant photographs are printed on paper or film.

When presenting the results, the radiologist can briefly explain what the MRI of the lumbar spine showed and recommend which specialist to contact to make a diagnosis.

What does an MRI show?

Tomography helps to identify congenital defects and anomalies in the development of the lumbosacral region, degenerative changes in the vertebrae, abscesses and neoplasms, damage to the ligamentous apparatus and bones, blood vessels and spinal cord as a result of trauma.

MRI of the lumbar and sacral region shows:

• The presence of tumors - benign or malignant. At the initial stages of development, neoplasms may not produce any symptoms, but subsequently pain appears, walking becomes difficult, and possible loss of sensation in the limbs and numbness. During the study, the size and structure of the tumor, the degree of its blood supply are determined;
• Inflammatory processes - tomography of the lumbar region makes it possible for suppuration of the periosteum with gradual destruction of tissue - osteomyelitis. The study shows the presence of spondylitis, an inflammatory pathology that usually develops against the background of excessively intense physical activity. Another dangerous disease of bacterial origin is tuberculosis. If inflammatory processes are detected at an early stage, the patient has a chance of complete recovery;
• Arthritis and arthrosis. The first disease is an inflammation of soft tissues, the second is a disorder of the dystrophic degenerative type. In both cases, a person can quickly become disabled;
• Osteochondrosis is a chronic disease that leads to gradual deformation of the spine, changes in the vertebrae and soft tissues. The vertebral bodies are deformed, the intervertebral discs thin out and become flat. The reasons are excessive physical activity and maintaining a static posture for a long time, a sedentary lifestyle. Timely detection of the disease allows you to slow down the development of pathology and prevent dangerous complications;
• Osteoporosis – decreased bone density in the spine;
• Hernias and protrusions of intervertebral discs develop as a complication of osteochondrosis or as a result of injury. Protrusion is a protrusion of the disc that is not accompanied by rupture of the annulus fibrosus. If it ruptures, we are talking about a hernia. The disease causes discomfort when walking, severe pain, swelling, disturbances in the sensitivity of the lower extremities and the anatomy of the back. In the absence of adequate treatment, compression of the spinal cord occurs due to displacement of the disc into the cavity of the spinal canal;
• Consequences of traumatic effects - bruises, fractures and others. MRI of the lumbar spine in such situations is performed in the first hours after injury. Based on the results of the study, appropriate treatment tactics are selected.

Tomography will show whether the patient has congenital anomalies of the sacral or lumbar region, resulting from a birth injury or as a consequence of genetic mutations. The procedure helps to detect ankylosing spondylitis - a congenital pathology in which joints are destroyed and their mobility is reduced.

MRI also makes it possible to diagnose narrowing of the canal in the spinal column. This is one of the pathological processes that can lead to compression of the spinal cord and disability. The examination may reveal cysts in the coccyx area, transitional vertebrae between the lumbar region and the sacrum, which, if asymmetrically located, provoke scoliosis. At the same time, the thickness of the intervertebral discs and their density are assessed.

What is the tailbone?

The coccyx is a triangular bone that makes up the lowest part of the spine. It is a vestigial tail. Depending on the development of the individual, the coccyx may consist of three to five vertebral bones connected by joints and/or discoid ligaments. Although it was originally thought that the coccyx was always fused together, it is now known that the coccyx is not the only solid bone, and there is limited movement between the bones, which are connected by fibrous joints and ligaments.

The coccyx connects to the sacrum through the cruciate joint, and there is usually limited movement between the coccyx and the sacrum. The tailbone usually moves forward or backward slightly as the pelvis, hips, and legs move. When a person sits or stands, the bones that make up the pelvis (including the tailbone) rotate slightly outward and inward to better support and balance the body.

Examination with contrast

During MRI of the lumbar and sacral regions, the use of a contrast agent is usually not required. All changes are visualized in detail in the pictures even without its use.

However, if a tumor is suspected, a contrast method is used, which makes it possible to identify a tumor, determine its shape and structure, extent, benign or malignant nature, and the presence of metastases. Contrast enhancement is also used to diagnose inflammatory processes, the presence of scar tissue, and relapses after surgery.

What will a tomography of the coccyx show?

During an MRI examination, you can obtain accurate information on the condition of the coccygeal region and:

• Identify congenital or acquired anomalies;
• Detect tissue destruction in the coccygeal region;
• Identify possible post-traumatic changes;
• Find out the condition of the coccyx. When healthy, it represents an inverted pyramid;
• Find out the number of vertebrae that form the coccygeal bone;
• Determine the position of the coccyx, the presence of injuries, fractures, displacements;
• Consider the condition of the vessels that are located in the pericoccygeal region;
• Determine the presence of fistulas, abscesses, as well as tumors and cysts;
• Examine the articulation of the patient’s coccygeal bone and the sacrum;
• Note changes in connective tissue or bones;
• See the presence of degenerative changes.

Coccyx on MRI image

MRI of the coccyx

MRI of the coccyx with coccydynia

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Preparation for the procedure

No special preparation is required for MRI of the sacrovertebral region. But before a contrast study, you need to adhere to a rational diet on the day of the procedure. During contrast, a special substance, gadolinium, is injected intravenously into the patient, which improves the visualization of various structures in the MRI image.

When performing tomography with contrast on breastfeeding women, there is a ban on breastfeeding until the substance is removed from the body naturally. This usually takes about 2 days; drinking plenty of liquid helps speed up the process. During this period, it is necessary to express milk to feed the baby.

Some patients have intolerance to the components of the contrast agent. You should inform your doctor about this in advance. The study will be conducted without contrast.

In other cases, it is enough to arrive at the clinic on time and bring with you pictures taken during previous studies, if any. This will help the doctor assess the dynamics of the processes occurring in the lumbar and sacrum areas. In addition, you will have to remove all metal jewelry and clothing with metal elements, such as buttons.

Preparation

When prescribing an MRI of the sacrococcygeal region, the doctor may recommend coming to the clinic on an empty stomach if the procedure involves contrast. It is also worth paying attention to the choice of clothing for the examination - it should not have metal elements (zippers and others).

Before starting an MRI scan, the doctor in the diagnostic room will ask you to remove metal jewelry and leave your phone, watch, keys and other devices in the preparation room that may be damaged due to the magnetic field.

How is tomography performed?

The patient lies down on a horizontal platform, which slides into the tomograph tube. During the examination, the device emits a monotonous humming sound, which should be taken calmly. To reduce discomfort, the patient is offered earplugs.

Sometimes the area being examined is fixed with special soft belts or rollers. This is due to the fact that high-quality images can only be obtained if the patient remains motionless.

Throughout the procedure, the doctor remains in the adjacent room. He maintains vocal contact with the patient and observes him through a transparent partition. If pain or serious discomfort occurs, you can inform your doctor at any time.

MRI of the lumbar and sacral regions usually lasts about 20 minutes, with contrast - 35-40 minutes. After completing the procedure, the doctor draws up a conclusion in which he describes in detail the results obtained, the condition of organs and tissues, and the pathologies identified. Along with this document, the patient receives printed images and data on electronic media, for example, on a disk.

How is an MRI of the tailbone done?

Magnetic resonance imaging scanner
Having received a referral for examination, many patients are interested in the question, how is an MRI of the tailbone done? Diagnostics takes place in a special room where a magnetic resonance machine is located. In the next room, medical staff are watching the scanning process.

The patient lies down on the couch, the laboratory assistant helps to take the correct position for the examination of the sacrococcygeal region. To eliminate the influence of unpleasant sounds during operation of the tomograph, the patient is asked to wear noise-cancelling headphones. The total scanning duration is up to 15 minutes. On the recommendation of a doctor, if cancer is suspected, it may be necessary to improve the clarity of the image of the area under study - for this, a contrast agent is injected. Distributing throughout the tissues, the solution accumulates in the pathological area. As a result, the latter in the photo looks like a bright light area. Thanks to the intravenous administration of a contrast agent, it is possible to examine the sacrum, coccyx, and surrounding soft tissue structures in detail. In case of highlighting, the procedure time is extended to 30 minutes.

MRI is an absolutely harmless and painless diagnosis. Due to the absence of negative X-ray radiation, it can be performed as many times as necessary during the treatment process.

Survey results

The resulting images clearly show:

• The shape of the vertebrae and their sizes;
• The quality of signals from the bone marrow;
• Features of the spinal canal, its diameter, the presence of stenosis (narrowing) and its location;
• Hernia-type protrusions, their direction;
• The condition of the ligaments in the lumbar region, the presence of ruptures and other damage;
• Disturbed curves of the spinal column;
• Neoplasms, their type, location;
• Condition of blood vessels, membranes, spinal cord, nerve roots;
• Pinched nerve fibers;
• Condition of the soft tissues in the lower back.

In conclusion, the doctor describes the size of the lesions, their exact location, the type of pathology, and assesses the likely negative impact on nearby tissues.

What can be seen during this diagnosis?

The coccyx is a process consisting of fused vertebrae. It is considered a vestige of a tail. The main purpose of the coccyx is to attach ligaments and muscles that ensure the full functioning of the intestines and reproductive system. This section distributes the load and promotes flexion and extension of the hip.

Many people are interested in the safety of MRI of the coccyx.

, as the study shows. Magnetic resonance imaging shows the general condition and shape of the coccyx, allows you to identify the number of fused vertebrae, study the condition of the sacrococcygeal joint, and evaluate the location and absence of displacement. Using the method, the necessary information is obtained and the following problems are identified in this area:

• consequences of injuries;
• congenital and acquired anomalies;
• development of degenerative and destructive anomalies;
• cysts, tumors, abscesses and fistulas;
• osteochondrosis, hernias, protrusions, arthrosis and spondylosis;
• vascular diseases;
• Bekhterev's disease.

Main contraindications

For all its information content and safety, MRI has some contraindications. They are mainly associated with the peculiarities of the influence of a magnetic field on metal products. The procedure is not performed if the patient has ferromagnetic implants, pacemakers, artificial middle ear simulators, Ilizarov apparatus and other similar devices. MRI is prohibited for people who have metal plates, shell fragments, pins or other elements in their bodies.

Tomography is not recommended for women in early pregnancy or people with mental illness. The procedure is carried out with caution in case of heart failure in the decompensated stage and some other serious diseases. Claustrophobia can create certain problems.

The effectiveness of treatment of any disease depends on the quality of diagnosis.
The timeliness of restoration measures also plays an important role. MRI of the sacral and lumbar region shows various diseases, allows you to accurately diagnose at the earliest stages of the disease and begin treatment on time. Rate this article: (2 rated 5 out of 5)

Contraindications to MRI of the lumbosacral spine

The use of magnetic resonance imaging is impossible if there are electronic devices in the patient’s body (cochlear implant, insulin pump, defibrillator, pacemaker, etc.). Under the influence of diagnostic equipment, the device can fail.

There are restrictions regarding silicone implants with magnetic guides and metal structures. MRI is not performed if the product consists of elements that are not compatible with the field induced by the device. When making an appointment for the procedure, you must notify the center employee about the presence in your body of:

• vascular clips;
• stents;
• knitting needles;
• pins;
• endoprostheses;
• plates;
• meshes, etc.

MRI is performed if the device is located away from the scanning area or is made of titanium, which does not interact with the magnetic field. The possibility of undergoing the procedure is determined personally for each patient after providing information about the product.

MRI is not performed if the person is in serious condition and resuscitation measures are required. The design of the closed tomograph allows examination of persons with a body weight of up to 120 kg and a torso girth of up to 140 cm.

Extrusion of the intervertebral disc (pathological changes circled) on an MR image

Relative contraindications to tomographic scanning are as follows:

• first trimester of pregnancy;
• claustrophobia (the procedure is carried out on open-type tomographs);
• feeling unwell (due to acute respiratory viral infection or another illness, it is better to cancel or reschedule the MRI);
• alcohol intoxication, mental, neurological disorders and other conditions in which it is impossible to remain in a stationary position for a long time (in this case, the issue of conducting an MRI in a hospital under anesthesia is considered).

Contrast enhancement is contraindicated in pregnant women and persons with severe renal and hepatic insufficiency, and those with individual intolerance to gadolinium preparations.

MRI can be done on children of any age. For infants, the procedure is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia.

Preparing for the study

There is no need for any special preparation for an MRI scan of the tailbone. Experts recommend adhering to only a few rules:

• If the diagnosis is carried out with the introduction of a contrast agent, refrain from eating a few hours before the examination.
• Clothing during the study should be as comfortable as possible. It should not have metal fasteners and zippers, as well as other elements.
• Before the examination, it is necessary to remove all implants and prostheses, jewelry and watches, empty your pockets of keys, bank cards, small change, flash drives, telephone and other items that cannot be carried with you during the tomography.
• For greater comfort during the procedure, before scanning, you should use earplugs or special headphones suggested by your doctor.
• If you are very nervous and worried that you will not be able to remain still during the entire examination, then warn your doctor about this. You may be advised to take a sedative.

This article contains general information only, is not scientific material and should not be construed as a substitute for medical advice.