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Frequently Asked Questions

What does an x-ray show?

An x-ray is a basic screening test that shows a bone and its relationship to other bones. It gives spine surgeons an overview of how the spine is aligned, reveals most fractures and deformities and helps surgeons understand degenerative problems.

Why get a MRI?

A MRI shows the nerves, spinal cord and soft tissues. If the referring doctor suspects a herniated disc or other problem, such as a pinched nerve, a MRI is usually the study of choice.

Why get a CT scan?

A CT scan reveals bone detail. It also can help with soft tissues for those patients who cannot have a MRI. This includes patients with cardiac pacemakers, implanted cardiac defibrillators, otic/inner ear/cochlear implants and metal fragments in the eye. Some implants that contain metal must be verified as safe before a MRI procedure can be done.

Some patients may need to have a myelogram (dye injected into the veins) before the CT is performed.

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