Magnetic resonance myelography

Content sourced from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Magnetic resonance myelography

What is MR myelography
Magnetic resonance myelography (MR myelography or MRI myelography) is a noninvasive imaging test that uses MRI and a gadolinium-based contrast agent to view the subarachnoid space around the spinal cord. It helps detect problems such as spinal cord injury, cysts, tumors, and other abnormalities.

How it’s done
- A radiologist numbs the skin with local anesthesia and injects gadolinium contrast into the spinal canal, usually between the L3 and L4 vertebrae.
- The patient changes position so the contrast spreads evenly in the spinal canal and around the nerve roots.
- An MRI scan is then performed to take detailed pictures.

Indications (why it is done)
- Locate sites of cerebrospinal fluid leaks after puncture or spine surgery (e.g., headaches from leaks, rhinorrhea, or otorrhea).
- Help plan surgery, especially regarding nerve roots.
- Plan radiation therapy.
- Evaluate spinal or basal cisternal disease.
- When standard MRI findings are nondiagnostic or don’t match symptoms.

Contraindications (when it should not be used)
- Metallic implants that are not titanium.
- Pacemakers and some other implanted devices.

Postprocedural care (after the test)
- Stay well hydrated to help remove the contrast from the body.
- Monitor for any adverse effects from the contrast.
- This procedure is usually done as an outpatient; follow instructions about activities (such as driving) after the test.
- A healthcare professional should explain warning signs of reactions and answer questions.

Advantages
- No ionizing radiation.
- Noninvasive compared with traditional myelography.
- Does not require intrathecal (into the spinal fluid) contrast in many cases.

See also
- Myelography
- MRI