Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the neck is specifically known as a cervical spine MRI. This diagnostic procedure creates detailed images of the soft tissues, including the spinal cord, nerve roots, and intervertebral discs, without using ionizing radiation. It is often requested to investigate neck pain, arm numbness, or to diagnose conditions like a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or tumors. While a full MRI appointment may take around 90 minutes from check-in to departure, the core time spent inside the scanner is typically between 20 and 45 minutes.
The Actual Time Spent in the Scanner
The duration inside the MRI machine is determined by the number of imaging sequences the radiologist requires. A sequence is a specific set of radiofrequency pulses and gradient changes that the machine runs, and each one takes several minutes to complete. These sequences highlight different tissue characteristics, allowing medical professionals to distinguish between various tissues and potential pathology.
A standard cervical spine MRI involves multiple sequences, such as T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and sometimes short tau inversion recovery (STIR). T1-weighted images are better for anatomical detail, showing fat tissue as bright, while T2-weighted images are sensitive to water content, making fluid-filled areas appear bright. Each of these sequences must be run multiple times to capture images in different planes, such as axial (cross-sectional), sagittal (side view), and coronal (front view).
A plastic coil is often placed around the neck area to improve the magnetic signal, which helps in producing clearer, more diagnostic images. During the entire scanning process, the patient must remain completely motionless to prevent motion artifacts from blurring the images. The machine produces loud knocking and humming sounds as the magnetic field gradients are rapidly switched, which is why ear protection is provided.
Variables That Change the Scan Length
The standard 20 to 45-minute scan window can be extended by several factors related to the patient’s condition or the imaging protocol. A common reason for added time is the use of a contrast agent, typically a gadolinium-based compound. This agent is injected intravenously to enhance the visibility of structures like blood vessels, inflammation, or tumors.
If contrast is required, the technologist pauses the scan after the initial sequences, administers the injection, and then runs a second set of sequences. This process of pausing, injecting, and restarting the scan adds 10 to 15 minutes to the time spent inside the machine. The need for contrast is usually determined before the appointment based on the patient’s symptoms or medical history.
Patient movement also increases the procedure length, as excessive motion, such as coughing or shifting position, can render a sequence unusable. When movement occurs, the technologist must repeat the affected sequence to obtain a clear image, adding several minutes to the overall scan time. Additional sequences must also be run if the clinical question is complex or involves adjacent areas, such as the upper thoracic spine.
Preparation and Logistics Before the Scan
The longer total appointment duration is accounted for by the necessary preparation and logistical steps. Patients are typically asked to arrive 15 to 30 minutes before the scheduled scan time to allow for check-in, registration, and completion of necessary consent forms and safety questionnaires. Safety screening is particularly important because of the powerful magnetic field used in MRI.
All patients undergo a detailed screening to identify any metallic objects that could pose a risk or interfere with the image quality. This involves removing all jewelry, watches, hairpins, and any clothing with metal components like zippers or snaps, often requiring the patient to change into a medical gown. Screening also focuses on internal metal, such as pacemakers, certain aneurysm clips, or shrapnel fragments, which may be contraindications for the procedure.
If the scan is ordered with intravenous contrast, a trained technologist will need to place an IV line, usually in the arm or hand, before the patient enters the scanner room. This step is performed in the preparation area and contributes to the pre-scan time. Ensuring all safety and logistical checks are complete is mandatory before the machine begins to capture the first image.
Immediate Post-Procedure and Results
Once the final imaging sequence is complete, the technologist slides the table out of the machine and helps the patient off the table. If an IV line was placed for contrast administration, it is removed immediately after the scan, and a small bandage is applied. Patients are monitored for a few minutes, especially if contrast was used, to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions.
Most individuals can resume their normal daily activities right away, as there is no required downtime following an MRI scan. The images captured are digital files that are sent to a specialized physician called a radiologist, who interprets the findings and generates a formal report. This interpretation process takes time, meaning the patient does not receive diagnostic findings immediately after the scan.
The radiologist’s report is then sent directly to the physician who originally ordered the MRI. For routine scans, this process can take a few business days up to a week or more, depending on the facility’s volume and the complexity of the case. The ordering doctor will then discuss the results and the next steps in treatment with the patient during a follow-up appointment.