How Much Does an MRI of the Spine Cost? A Complete Breakdown

MRI is a commonly used short form of Magnetic Resonance Imaging. As its name says, it is an imaging test that uses magnetic waves. This test enables doctors to get an image of the inside story of the body. Generally, doctors prescribe this test if they find complications related to the spine, brain, chest, stomach, and kidney. MRI-derived images can provide a clear picture of the abnormalities in the structure and function of a particular body part. If you are curious to know how much an MRI spine cost, then you will get your answer here. In this article, we will discuss about spine MRI and the cost of it.

What is an MRI of the spine?

If a doctor needs more detailed information about a body part, then they ask patients to get an MRI done. When patients experience pain or obstacles with the movement of the spine, doctors will need more info on this. The spine has a few components, such as vertebrae, sacrum, blood vessels, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. A spine MRI can get information about the structure and function of all the parts of the spine. MRI spine cost can vary according to the information the test will produce.

Procedure and Purpose of MRI of the spine

The procedure of an MRI spine is very simple and non-invasive. 

• The technician will ask you to lie down on a long table, keeping your back straight. 

• The table will go slowly inside a circular machine.

• The technician will take some images.

• They may ask you to hold your breath to keep you still.

• If you are going through a contract MRI, then a dye may be injected before the test.

This test produces clear images of the spinal condition of the patients that help detect many illnesses. However, different types of MRIs are performed to detect different spine problems. The MRI spine cost varies according to the type of the test. Generally, to identify spine-related problems due to accident, injury, or any infection, an MRI is performed. The purpose of an MRI could be to identify problems with:

• Alignment of the spine

• Disc height

• Nature of intervertebral disc

• Configuration of vertebrae

• Compressed nerves

• Any abnormalities in the spinal area

• The abnormalities after the spinal surgery

• The appearance of the spinal cord

Is There Any Risk Related To This Test

As per records, there is no health risk attached to the MRI spine. This is non-invasive, so there won’t be any pain as well. However, if you are allergic to dye, then avoid going for a contrast MRI.

MRI Spine Cost 

The MRI spine cost starts from Rs.3000 and can go up to Rs.18000 based on the type of the MRI. The exact cost can be checked when you know the particular MRI you need.

Variable Factors Of MRI Spine Cost

Let us look at the factors that vary and influence the MRI spine cost. The kind of MRI you need is a big factor, as complex MRIs need efficient technicians and more image slides to capture compared to others. Another variable factor is the location or city where you are performing the test. Next is the facility where you choose to perform the test. The MRI spine cost is higher in big branded facilities than in others.

Conclusion

As MRI is an expensive test, doctors do not prescribe this test very often. Patients complaining about back pain, having a back injury, or any spinal infection are being prescribed an MRI spine. Several types of spine MRIs are prescribed by doctors based on the problems or symptoms the patients have. The MRI spine cost is also different for each type of spine MRI.