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It can take up to a week or more to receive all results from your MRI. European Society of Skeletal Radiology Sports Sub-committee 2016. LUMBAR SPINE 72148- W/O CONTRAST 72158- W/O & W/ CONTRAST PELVIS 72195- W/O CONTRAST 72197- W/O & W/ CONTRAST CPT CODES for MRI SCANS Murray Center 5323 South Woodrow Street Murray, UT 84107 / Suite 100 P (801) 713-0600 F (801) 713-0601 Ogden Center 1486 East Skyline Drive So. The MRI machine uses a strong magnetic field that aligns and stimulates particles called protons in the body, forcing them to spin out of alignment. The lumbar MRI will help them plan the procedure before making an incision. They can also screen you for allergic reactions or even suggest an alternate contrast agent such as iodine. Most often, it takes about 60 minutes for a specialist to decipher them, but in the case of multiple or complex fractures, as well as in the presence of tumor processes, the results can be obtained even the next day. Remove all metal jewelry, and let your practitioner know about any metal implants or pacemakers. Lumbar spine MRI is a diagnostic method that allows you to get an exhaustive picture of the studied area with detailed visualization of anatomical structures. We ask that patients do not enter the scanning room with jewelry, watches, keys, coins or other metal objects. Therefore, condoliase causes less damage to . Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Prior surgery: MRI without and with . The strong magnetic field inside the machine will attract metal objects, such as jewelry. Gadolinium dye is associated with increased risks to the fetus. Again, because the MRI machine emits a strong magnetic field, it can cause metal implants inside the body to move. The study takes about 45 minutes. Copyrights AQ Imaging Network. MRI Brain during open surgery on brain : without contrast material. Renal arterial obstruction (complete blockage of blood to the kidney), Renal vein thrombosis (acute kidney injury), Glomerulonephritis (a condition in which the glomeruli of the kidney gets inflammation), Hydronephrosis (enlargement of kidney from urinary reflux), Acute tubular necrosis (a kidney disorder in which the tubule cells get damaged, leading to acute kidney injury). Do you know your risk for cancer?Read More. Gadolinium chelates are often useful in sorting out different causes of lower back pain and lumbar radiculopathy. Gadolinium has the potential to cause an allergic response. And in most cases of sports injuries, back pain, and work-related injuries, a health professional usually wont recommend an intravenous contrast MRI exam. Also conducted a study of the cervical spine, taking advantage of intrathecal injection of contrast. Each patient is provided their own private locked dressing room which has an area to hang their clothing. Bones themselves cannot hurt, but in addition to bone structures in the form of vertebrae and intervertebral discs, the lumbar-sacral section includes ligaments, tendons, nerves, muscles, blood vessels that can be injured as a result of vertebral displacement or degenerative changes in bone-cartilage structures. The lumbar spine includes 5 consecutive vertebrae, which are separated by intervertebral discs. Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Techniques of the Spine and Spinal Cord in Children and Adults. With and without contrast material. This is because gadolinium dye is associated with increased risks to the fetus. Medical professionals perform lumbar MRIs for a variety of reasons. What is a lumbar MRI? MRI is the imaging modality of choice. Most of the time, back and neck pain are not caused by a serious medical problem or injury. Clinical indications for ordering MRI with contrast may include but are not limited to the following: Extremities. Non-contrast MRIs are especially recommended for pregnant women, patients whose kidney function are compromised, and for anyone who cant typically use contrast MRI medical imaging. Thats because the abnormal tissue will stand out more than in a non-contrast MRI. Patients with poor renal function, who cannot undergo conventional MRI medical imaging due to their condition, are strongly advised to have non-contrast MRIs. The doctor should be aware of the possible risks to the same extent as the patient, who is warned about the consequences before the procedure. Osteomyelitis for ANY extremity; spine or general infection ; Soft tissue mass of ANY extremity or joint Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine uses radio waves, a magnetic field and a computer. OBJECTIVE: Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) derived bone mineral density (BMD) often fails to predict fragility fractures. An obstacle to MRI can also be the presence of tattoos, for which titanium compounds were used. MRI is usually the preferred test to diagnose tumors of the spinal cord and surrounding tissues. Relative contraindications are considered to be the patients use of an insulin pump, portable electrical stimulators of the nervous system, the presence in the body of middle and inner ear implants, imitators of heart valves, hemostatic clips, dental implants and braces made of metals not related to ferromagnets. If the image is normal, there is no need for action. We avoid using tertiary references. Contrast MRIs use a contrast dye such as gadolinium or iodine, while non-contrast MRIs don't. A contrast MRI scan is safe for patients who aren't pregnant and don't have pre-existing medical conditions like kidney abnormalities. At least one T1-weighted sequence should be included to ease the assessment and interpretation of bone marrow and/or soft tissue lesions. Call to schedule. You wont feel anything during the test. So, your medical caregiver should only suggest you take a contrast MRI during your pregnancy if its expected to improve the fetal and maternal outcome (ACOG). Check for errors and try again. 5. The cost of a lumbar MRI can vary widely, depending on various factors, such as: In some cases, insurance may cover all or part of the cost. impaired limb mobility in the sacral region, leg pain and back pain of unknown etiology. Its considered a safer alternative, especially for pregnant women and growing children. In the diagnosis of intervertebral hernia and spinal instability in the places of transitional vertebrae, MRI with verticalization is very indicative. MRI does not use radiation and may require an injection of gadolinium contrast material. An MRI involves lying down inside a windowless chamber for an extended period, and therefore people who experience claustrophobia may find the procedure uncomfortable or even frightening. In this case, the surgical team uses the results of the lumbar MRI to help plan the operation. Credit card and ATM card magnetic codes will be erased by the MRIs magnetic field if brought into the room. Indications for an MRI examination may be: As for diseases of the spine, in addition to injuries (fracture or severe contusion of the vertebral column, its instability), doctors also consider the following pathological processes: MRI gives very valuable information when tumor processes are suspected. Were Offering Ezra Screenings in a Brand New Location, February is Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month: A Guide. Anyway, there is a constant connection between the patient on the tomograph table and the doctor performing the procedure, and the person has the opportunity to report any unpleasant sensations that require stopping the device and medical care. Kleefield, J. An MRI can be performed on any part of your body. MRIs allow a doctor to better see the structures of the spine that are not visible to the human eye (spinal discs, vertebrae, etc. Functional MRI of brain not requiring physician or psychologist. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become critical to the early diagnosis of spinal infections. The procedure is not performed in patients whose body has ferromagnetic implants or metals that can interact with a magnetic field or can cause tissue burns, and electronic devices that support the patients vital activity (a magnetic field can have a bad effect on the operation of pacemakers and other similar devices). In order to reduce the severity of such unpleasant consequences, a test for sensitivity to contrasts is carried out beforehand and a requirement is introduced not to eat 1.5-2 hours before the procedure. On the image obtained with the help of a magnetic resonance imaging machine, the doctor can see: MRI allows not only to visualize pathology, but also to assess the degree of damage to the spine and adjacent structures, because changes in the structure and position of the bone structures of the spinal column often entail circulatory disorders and the appearance of neurological symptoms due to pinching of nerve fibers. Learn how Medicare can help with the cost of an MRI scan here. During the procedure, a healthcare provider will inject the contrast material into a vein in your arm, then place you in an MRI machine for the scan. CT Cervical spine myelography. To date, here have been no documented side effects from the radio waves and magnets used in the scan. After that, the magnetic field is turned on, which is many times larger than the Earths magnetic field, and the device begins scanning the affected area. MRI Lumbosacral Spine without Contrast About Test MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging modality that uses a magnetic field, the energy of radio waves, and a computer to create images of internal body organs, bones, and soft tissues. Zanchi F, Richard R, Hussami M, Monier A, Knebel J, Omoumi P. MRI of Non-Specific Low Back Pain And/Or Lumbar Radiculopathy: Do We Need T1 when Using a Sagittal T2-Weighted Dixon Sequence? Part of this is due to early detection. They will maintain verbal contact with the person they are examining through a microphone. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Last medically reviewed on November 8, 2021, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans produce detailed images of the organs and tissues in the body. MRI is . 3. As a result, the latter may require additional follow-up procedures to clarify abnormalities. Usually, a study of the spine is required if the patient complains of back pain closer to the lower back, which prevent a change in the position of the trunk. A nerve root anomaly, typified by a conjoined nerve root, is a rare finding. In malignant brain tumours which may disseminate staging, usually by cranial . The chart also includes ordering suggestions for without contrast, for MRA diagnostics and how to write a physician's order. It can also monitor your response to treatments for tumors, cirrhosis (diseases of the liver), etc. Many hospitals offer earplugs, while others have televisions or headphones for music to help you pass the time. Studies have shown that about 30% of completely pain-free (asymptomatic) people undergoing a lumbar MRI have abnormalities detected. that can interact with the magnetic field, making undesirable changes and threatening to burn tissues. MRI contraindicated: CT with contrast lumBaR sPiNe Indication Preferred Study Trauma CT lumbar spine without contrast. J Comput Assist Tomogr. In cases where MRIs cannot be obtained, we generally obtain as much supportive testing as possible. There are risks for people who have metal implants, such as pacemakers or surgically implanted pins. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). During the scan, a contrast in your bloodstream makes the tissues of interest seem to be shining brilliant white, making their detection and evaluation easier and more accurate. It is necessary to do a contrast MRI to determine whether the patients tumor therapy is being carried out effectively. Effective January 1, 2017 separate payment for the contrast media and the need to use the appropriate HCPCS "Q" code (Q9945 - Q9954; Q9958-Q9964) for the contrast medium utilized in performing the service. In some cases, you may need to wait up to an hour for the dye to work its way through your bloodstream and into your spine. Heart failure: Could a low sodium diet sometimes do more harm than good? EXAM TO ORDER SYMPTOMS/CONCERNS CPT CODE CPT 72149 MRI Lumbar Spine With Contrast. Administer an EpiPen or medicine right away if you have an allergic response. I consider it necessary to constantly educate myself and improve my skills, I adhere to the principles of evidence-based medicine in my work, I am guided by the well-known rule "Do no harm". Contrast MRI scans comprehensively investigate possible medical diagnoses from contrast MRIs that include cancer, vascular malformations, pituitary illness, acoustic neuromas, central nervous system aneurysms, and seizure causes. In addition, safety permitting, you may bring a companion into the room with you. MRI of the cervical spine is an extremely useful tool in evaluating patients with neck pain or symptoms of a pinched nerve as well as possible compression of the spinal cord. MRI uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce accurate images of your spine, spinal cord and nerves. What does an MRI of the lumbosacral spine show? Doctors typically provide answers within 24 hours. The lumbosacral spine is made up of the five lumbar vertebral bones (L1 thru L5), the sacrum (the bony shield at the bottom of your spine), and the coccyx (tailbone). Mullan C & Kelly B. Dr. Piotr Obara answered Radiology 16 years experience Depends. All rights reserved. When you get an MRI with contrast, you are given an intravenous injection of gadolinium or iodine which is injected into your veins. However, current research shows that non-contrast MRIs can monitor various disorders with advanced technology. For convenient access to your exam results and images, please log into our secure online, American College of Cardiology Recommends Coronary CTA. Non-contrast imaging is often preferred for most orthopedic examinations since the images are clearer when no contrast dye is used, which is advantageous. This may adversely affect a persons hearing if they do not wear proper ear protection. A herniated disk will usually reabsorb within 8 weeks. A lumbar MRI can indicate the reason a person is experiencing back, leg, or other type of pain. what's the difference? For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. A non-contrast MRI is also an effective exam for imaging your bodys organs. Large-scale studies are in progress, but it will take time to determine gadoliniums long-term effects. Tell your doctor about this so they can prescribe anti-anxiety medications. After the test, youre free to go about your day. MRI lumbar spine w/ & w/o contrast Malignancy Failed back syndrome Pathologic compression fracture (Lumbar Spine) 72158 P E L V I S SPI N E *If prior lumbar surgery (within 10 years), r/o infection, or bone mets then MRI lumbar spine w/ & w/o contrast. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Mri of spine c5/c6: moderate degenerative change noted focally. The clinical presentation of discitis in children differs from that of adults and is characterized by fever, sudden onset of back pain, refusal to flex the lumbar spine, irritability, and refusal to walk. Your doctor may suggest another method for inspecting your lumbar spine, such as a CT scan, depending on the type of pacemaker. An MRI scan provides a different kind of image from other imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans. The imaged distal spinal cord is unremarkable. It might not be safe to drive afterward if youve been sedated. The patient is warned in advance that during the procedure he will be alone in the office where the tomograph is located (although in some cases the presence of relatives or clinic staff is allowed). The spinal cord itself will also be assessed for any abnormality. A two-way communication system will allow the person to speak with the radiologist or technician at intervals during the scan. In addition, there is a possibility of a false-positive result, where a scan suggests that a problem is present when it is not. If you are claustrophobic, let your radiologist know so they can give you a sedative. Some people, for example, those who suffer from claustrophobia, may be afraid of the moment when the table on which they are lying enters the cavity of the device or stays there for a long time. The machine can be very loud, and the radiologist or technician will usually give the individual earplugs or headphones to wear. https://www.acr.org/-/media/ACR/files/clinical-resources/contrast_media.pdf, https://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/MedicalImaging/MRI/ucm482765.htm, https://www.aafp.org/family-physician/patient-care/clinical-recommendations/all-clinical-recommendations/cw-back-pain.html, https://www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri, https://www.ccjm.org/content/84/5/348.long, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mri-scan/what-happens/, https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2012/november/making-sense-of-mri-of-the-lumbar-spine/, Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. Doctors can use these images to examine a persons lower spine, or lumbar region, and the surrounding tissues. That. Some precautions will have to be taken when performing the procedure for patients with heart failure in the decompensation stage, with claustrophobia and inappropriate behavior of the patient (in this case, medication sleep is recommended). It's often performed to help diagnose: Aneurysms of cerebral vessels Disorders of the eye and inner ear Multiple sclerosis Spinal cord disorders Stroke Tumors Brain injury from trauma A special type of MRI is the functional MRI of the brain ( fMRI ). In Contrast, it can identify tiny cancers. If a person has difficulty staying in a static position for a long time, which often happens with young children or with severe pain in the spine, his body will be fixed with special straps. The procedure is painless, and there are very few side effects or risks. It is clear that we are talking about conducting diagnostics taking into account absolute and relative contraindications, as well as requirements for high-quality scanning. 2023. You do not have to take bedding or special clothes with you for the procedure. 4. If we are not talking about hypersensitivity of the body to chemotherapy drugs, these symptoms pass quite quickly and have no consequences. They will inject the contrast dye before the scan through an intravenous line into a vein in either the hand or the arm of the person. preparation for the upcoming surgery in the lumbar region and control in the postoperative period. Radiologists then use these images to detect possible issues such as cancer. Being in another room, the examinee hears all the doctors instructions about the correct behavior during the procedure. Should be performed with and without contrast; Findings: . D Having an mri of spine. Get prescriptions or refills through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate. My credo in life is "If you want to do something well, do it yourself.". Specific sequences include a three plane localizer, sagittal T1, T2, and STIR, and axial T2 (repeated) and proton density sequences. The MRI technician will have you lie on the bench, either on your back, side, or stomach. The doctor will ask you not to move during the scan, since any movements can distort the overall picture of the study. Pregnant women are generally advised to take non-contrast MRIs unless their physician says otherwise. MRIs with and without contrast can help you detect cancer early so you can act early. This study involves studying the state of the spine in a lying and sitting position, when the tomograph table and the magnet rise to an upright position. curvature of the spinal column in the lumbosacral region. Mri of spine: posterior central protrusion&compressn of right root in l5-s1.i have pain and weakness in both legs.y doesnt mri show left root issue? At the same time, the spine begins to experience a noticeable axial load, and the defects become more pronounced. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), low back pain is one of the most common reasons for outpatient visits to hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. Gadolinium can stay in the brain. 2018;9(4):549-57. Eur Radiol. Cervical Spine MRI. There are small bones in your body called vertebrae that are joined together to form the "spine." Sometimes, MRI technicians also use gadolinium, which is a contrast dye, to gain a clearer image. Placing a spinal needle in the lumbar subarachnoid space either under fluoroscopy in lateral decubitus position or on the CT scanner table in prone position. Side effects from MRI scans are rare, but they can happen. These are very crate but you can sometimes see them on a cervical spine MRI if they are big enough. The World Health Organization says that 30 to 50% of cancers are preventable. Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in less than one minute for common issues such as: colds and coughs, stomach symptoms, bladder infections, rashes, and more. In Contrast MRIs have certain safety risks for those who are allergic to the dyes primary constituent. A contrast injection can cause side effects like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and pain at the injection spot. 70557. An MRI scan uses magnets and radio waves to capture images inside your body without making a surgical incision. However, with a gadolinium-based agent, your physician can determine TIA (a brief stroke), thrombosis (a blood clot in the circulatory system), and venous insufficiency (a condition in which the veins in the legs fail to pump blood back to the heart). The proximity of the lumbar and sacral spine leads to the fact that in order to determine the cause of pain and limitation of spinal mobility in the lumbar region, doctors see it appropriate to examine both departments, so the procedure in most cases is called an MRI of the lumbosacral region. We propose a simple multiparametric protocol with automated analysis and report normative data . Due to possible side effects, you shouldnt have a contrast MRI without your physicians advice. Can a mri of spine detect aneurysm and nerve disorders? Mri with and without contrast indications. detect abnormalities of vertebrae or the spinal cord, check for a lumbar disk herniation, which can lead to leg pain, evaluate any inflammation of the spinal cord or nerves, monitor damage to the spine after an injury, sudden back pain with spinal tenderness, possibly linked to cancer, osteoporosis, or steroid use, a serious underlying condition, such as cancer, a congenital or developmental variant, a feature that a person has developed or had since birth, central vertebral canal stenosis, in which a narrowing occurs that leads to nerve compression in the spine, have any metal implants, such as a pacemaker or a hip or knee replacement, have a history of allergic reactions, which is important if the scan requires the use of a contrast dye. For convenient access to your exam results and images, please log into our secure online Patient or Physician portals. Sayah A, Jay A, Toaff J, Makariou E, Berkowitz F. Effectiveness of a Rapid Lumbar Spine MRI Protocol Using 3D T2-Weighted SPACE Imaging Versus a Standard Protocol for Evaluation of Degenerative Changes of the Lumbar Spine. Theyll be able to communicate with you through a speaker in the machine. Any large metal implants and fragments, as well as electronic devices and implants made of ferromagnetic materials that cannot be removed, will be an obstacle to MRI. 2023. There are risks for people who have implants containing metal. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create detailed image slices (cross sections) of the various parts of your spine. herniations are located in specific locations on the spine using this method. You will be in constant contact with a caring technologist and have a control button to alert the technologist, if the need arises. : 1. Your email address will not be published. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. An MRI scan creates detailed pictures of your spine. Imaging facilities provide MRIs with and without contrast, and if youd like to learn more about this technology, its applications, and its advantages, then read on. BR39Y Other Contrast. Insights Imaging. Contrast MRIs tend to be easier to interpret than non-contrast MRIs. Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other abusable medications. It is especially important for people . MRIs, or magnetic resonance imaging, can be done with or without contrast. You cannot take keys, payment cards, mobile phones and other electronic devices with you to the procedure. In general, without contrast cannot be used to assess the state of a tumor under consideration. Axial non-contrast. What is a Head MRI and its Purpose and Procedure? What is a lumbar puncture? An MRI of the lumbar spine is usually conducted with the patient in the supine position. The Central Canal in the MRI Lumbar Spine. For instance, a non-contrast imaging test is as capable as a contrast MRI in diagnosing a stroke. (*) indicates optional planes or sequences, ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads, Please Note: You can also scroll through stacks with your mouse wheel or the keyboard arrow keys. It is of note that no diagnostic technology is fully reliable, although some studies have suggested up to 100% success rates for a lumbar MRI detecting a herniated disk. MRI imaging is divided into two categories: contrast-enhanced MRI and non-contrast MRI. MRI Preparation - Lumbar Spine Options: Without Contrast With and Without Contrast Preparation Instructions: Please do not wear jewelry, hairpins, or any metal objects. They do, however, have no back pain. A lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses energy from strong magnets to create pictures of the lower part of the spine (lumbar spine). An MRI picture is made up of a range of grays, from white to black. As such, MRI with and without contrast is the imaging study of choice for the early diagnosis of suspected . Educational text answers on HealthTap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive type of imaging test that healthcare professionals use to detect multiple sclerosis (MS) activity in the brain and spinal cord. I believe they mean the same thing. A radiologist or MRI technician will ask an individual to lie down on a table that slides into the opening of the machine. General Practitioner. CT. Sagittal bone window. Acute neurologic deficit and CT negative: MRI without contrast Pain, degenerative changes, radiculopathy, sciatica MRI lumbar spine without contrast. If such a fear is present, it is necessary to tell the doctor about it, who will first make sure that the patient is given a sedative. CT abdomen and pelvis with IV contrast : May Be Appropriate FDG-PET/CT whole body In contrast, chondroitin sulfate ABC endolyase (condoliase), a mucopolysaccharide-degrading enzyme from Gram-negative rod Proteus vulgaris [9], specifically decomposes glycosaminoglycans in the nucleus pulposus, the moisture-retaining component of the vertebral disc, without affecting proteins. They may provide the physician with more information on the size and location of the tumor and the presence of other tissues involved. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine is a very commonly encountered test which can be performed for a variety of indications, including deg. suspected anomalies in the development of other parts of the spine, for example, cervical or thoracic, control of the recovery period after removal of an intervertebral hernia. AJR Am J Roentgenol. Magnetic resonance imaging, is a non-invasive, non-radiation method of cross section imaging. The study takes about 45 minutes. Vargas M, Delattre B, Boto J et al. When asked how long an MRI of the lumbar spine lasts, the answer will be ambiguous. It is possible that additional dedicated vascular . Magnetic resonance imaging is one of the safest diagnostic procedures, but this does not mean that this method has no contraindications. . In this article, we discuss how doctors use a lumbar MRI to examine an individuals lower back, how to prepare, and what happens during an MRI. Interpretation of the results of MRI of the lumbosacral spine is carried out after the end of the examination procedure. However, if you took sedatives before the procedure, you shouldnt drive. Your medical provider should only recommend contrast magnetic resonance imaging during pregnancy if it is predicted to enhance fetal and maternal outcomes. The contrast MRI is used to look for areas of active inflammation. A Beginners Guide, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, weakness, numbness, or other problems with your legs. Unlike CT scans (computed tomography) and X-rays, MRIs do not use radiation. The most common type of contrast dye is gadolinium. At least 80 percent of Americans experience back pain at some point. BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: DTI, magnetization transfer, T2*-weighted imaging, and cross-sectional area can quantify aspects of spinal cord microstructure. Although in some clinics it is possible to conduct a tomography with visualization, and already in the process to draw some conclusions about the condition of the spine and surrounding tissues. There is no difference between MRIs with and without contrast when it comes to diagnosing stroke. 2005;74(1):29-32. Fax: 717.509.8642 Scheduling: 717.291.1016 or 888.MRI.1377 Information portal about health and medicine, suspicion of any pathology and spinal injuries. It provides very comprehensive photographs of your bodys soft tissue to offer your doctor important diagnostic and prognosis information. There are not so many absolute contraindications to performing an MRI of the lumbar spine without contrast. NSF is a rare disease occurring in patients with pre-existing severe kidney function abnormalities.