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What does an MRI of the thoracic spine show?

What does an MRI of the thoracic spine show?

A thoracic spine MRI provides detailed images of the vertebrae, soft tissues, and surrounding organs to help detect a variety of conditions including fractures, improper spine curvature, inflammation, infection, herniated discs, tumors, and spinal cord damage.

Can spinal cord injury be seen on MRI?

MRI can reveal specifics about a spinal injury, such as hemorrhage, disc herniation, or other types of soft tissue disruptions. The timing and use of MRI to diagnose a spinal cord injury is somewhat controversial. In some cases, MRI has clear benefits for patients with SCI.

What assessment findings are associated with injuries of the spinal cord at the thoracic level?

The following may be associated with thoracic spine nerve damage:

  • Significant leg weakness or loss of sensation.
  • Loss of feeling in genitals or rectal region.
  • No control of urine or stool.
  • Fever and lower back pain.
  • A fall or injury that caused the pain.

What happens if the thoracic spine is damaged?

Following a thoracic spinal cord injury, individuals experience loss of motor control and sensation in the trunk and/or legs (paraplegia). Depending on the level and severity of the spinal cord injury, the amount of motor control and sensation spared will vary.

Does your whole body go in for a thoracic MRI?

The MRI may scan your whole spine or just a part of it. Unlike X-rays and computerized tomography (CT) scans, it doesn’t use damaging radiation. It’s generally safe and painless. The doctor will let you know about any possible risks you may face.

Why is an MRI done for spinal cord injury?

The role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evaluating the acutely injured spine is well-established, and contributes to assessment of vertebral injury, ligamentous disruption, associated disc protrusion as well as the exact site of maximal canal stenosis and nature of the cord injury.

Why is MRI best for spinal cord?

MRI allows better visualization of the spinal cord, ligaments, discs, vessels, and others soft tissues than computerized tomography (CT) scans or radiographs. Different MRI sequences have been developed to visualize optimally various aspects of the injured spine and spinal cord.

Which patient is at highest risk for a spinal cord injury?

Males are most at risk in young adulthood (20-29 years) and older age (70+). Females are most at risk in adolescence (15-19) and older age (60+). Studies report male-to-female ratios of at least 2:1 among adults, sometimes much higher.

What organs does a thoracic MRI show?

What Organs Does a Thoracic MRI Show?

  • Heart.
  • Lungs.
  • Thymus Gland.
  • Lymph Nodes.
  • Posterior Ribs.
  • Adrenal Glands.

How do you heal a thoracic spine injury?

The most common treatments for a thoracic compression fracture are: pain medications, decreasing activity, and bracing. In rare cases, surgery may also be necessary. Mild pain medications can reduce pain when taken properly. However, remember that medications will not help the fracture to heal.

How long does a thoracic MRI take?

MRI scans can take from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on how much of your spine is being scanned. After a spine MRI, you can go back to your normal activities right away. But if you had medicine to relax before the test, you’ll need to wait until it wears off.

Why are thoracic spine injuries so hard to diagnose?

The increased biomechanical support of the thoracic spine makes injuries in this region particularly rare compared with the cervical and lumbar spine. As a result, thoracic spine injuries can be missed easily, difficult to diagnose, and problematic to treat.

What is a thoracic MRI of the spine?

Thoracic MRI of the Spine: Purpose, Procedure, Results A spine MRI makes a very detailed picture of your spine to help your doctor diagnose back and neck pain, tingling hands and feet, and other conditions. Skip to main content

What is the outlook for a thoracic spinal cord injury?

Injury Outlook. The most limiting factor of a thoracic spinal cord injury is the inability to control bladder and bowel function, but the patient is able to adapt to this quickly. Patients with thoracic spinal cord injuries will likely be paraplegic with the use of their arms, chest, and upper back. These patients may:

What is the clinical evaluation for a thoracic spine injury?

There are myriad scenarios when one might encounter a patient with a thoracic spine injury. These can range from an acute high-energy traumatic injury to a chronic, debilitating upper back overuse injury. In all spine-related injuries, clinical evaluation must begin with Advanced Trauma Life Support Protocol.