Magnetic resonance imaging generates cross-sectional images without ionizing radiation, providing superior soft tissue contrast. It is the study of choice for discs, ligaments, cartilage, and brain tissue.
Contrast agents improve visualization of inflammation and vascular structures.
Alternative Names:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, MR Imaging
Why it Matters?
MRI findings drive most spinal injury claims, and the recurring dispute is whether findings are traumatic or degenerative rather than whether they exist. Disc desiccation, endplate changes, and osteophytes indicate chronicity, while acute findings such as marrow edema suggest recent injury. The timing of the study relative to the incident also matters, since imaging obtained months later cannot distinguish acute from developing changes.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What does MRI show that other studies do not?
How are traumatic and degenerative findings distinguished?
