How is lumbar MRI performed? To accurately investigate the cause of back pain and confirm the presence of a herniated disc or damage to the soft structures around the vertebrae, MRI imaging is used as one of the most accurate diagnostic tools. This method without radiation provides precise details of the discs, nerves, ligaments and soft tissues.. MRI is performed step by step: 1.... **Preliminary evaluation by the doctor;** Before the MRI, the doctor recognizes the need for this imaging by reviewing the history and physical examination.... 2.... **Patient preparation;** The patient is asked to remove all metal objects such as jewelry, watches, belts, and mobile phones.... In some cases, it is a special MRI cover, such as medical history, a scarf, or special medical accessories.. Questions... It is usually a pad or roll placed under the knee to take pressure off the back... are.... sometimes, in special cases, the injection of a contrast agent (gadolinium) is used.... 7.... **end and check the results;** after the scan is completed, the images are interpreted by the radiologist and the report is sent to the attending physician.... ### Do you have to fast for a back MRI? According to the characteristics of the lumbar MRI method, it is usually necessary for the test subject to fast 4 to 6 hours before the lumbar disc MRI. Therefore, the necessary recommendations in this field should be given by the attending physician to the individual.... ### Duration of lumbar MRI The entire back MRI process can take from *30 to 90 minutes* and this time depends on the patient's preparation and cooperation, as well as the preparation of the responsible staff and the equipment needed in this field.... usually the main part of the back MRI does not last more than *15 to 20 minutes... Back MRI without contrast In MRI with contrast, gadolinium dye is used. The nurse or doctor injects the contrast dye through a tube that is placed in one of the person's veins. Sometimes there is no need to use contrast and an MRI of the back without contrast is sufficient. With the exception of dental pins, the person's high weight (over 120 kg) can cause the doctor to perform an MRI without an MRI to treat back pain. MRI of the back without injection can show two different concepts.. The first concept is the back MRI without the injection of contrast material, which is the same as the back MRI without contrast, and we have explained about it above... due to the lack of injection of sedatives, there is no reason to prohibit the test subject from driving after the back MRI... Preparation of the back MRI before performing the back MRI Proper preparation before back MRI plays an important role in increasing the accuracy of images and reducing the possibility of errors or delays in imaging. Since MRI is used to investigate conditions such as lumbar disc and leg pain and usually requires accurate visualization of soft structures such as discs, nerve roots, and ligaments, it is very important to perform the following steps before imaging. It does the highest possible quality and the attending physician can plan a more effective treatment for the lumbar disc based on the detailed findings... Care after lumbar MRI After an MRI of your back you are free to go about your daily activities....however, you should not drive if you have taken or received sedation prior to the MRI of your back disc....If the MRI images of your back are displayed on film, it may take several hours for the back MRI film to be made....It will also take some time for your doctor to review the images and interpret the results.... *- Dr. James F... Burke, Neurologist, Neurologist, Univ. Michigan:* > "Although MRI alone is non-invasive and does not require recovery time, patients should definitely follow up with their doctor so that the results of the scan and the next steps of treatment, especially in cases of chronic back pain or pressure on the nerve, are properly reviewed." **Using lumbar disc MRA to treat this disease** Lumbar disc MRI is a valuable tool for accurate diagnosis of spine problems, which achieves the best results by taking the necessary precautions and consulting with a doctor. This painless method provides comprehensive information about the condition of the lumbar discs and provides the possibility of choosing the right treatment. It is more effective for patients...