Lumbar Spine

Exam Time

Approximately 45 minutes

Patient Preparation

All patients should arrive 15 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment time unless otherwise noted, so that proper evaluation, screening and registration can be completed prior to the scan.

Previous pertinent MR and CT studies should arrive prior to the exam.

Patients requiring oral sedation must have a driver set up to provide return travel to their residence. If the patient does not have transportation, Edina Consulting Center can arrange for transportation (set up at time of appointment if at all possible).

You must have with you:

• Previous x-rays if requested by your doctor’s office
• Your appointment form and referral
• Complete insurance information including your insurance card

A lumbar spine MRI exam requires no special preparation.

• Eat normally and continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless you have been given other instructions.
• Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners such as zippers, buckles, or snaps.
• You will be asked to leave all items containing metal, and cards with magnetic strips such as credit cards, outside the room.
• You may be asked to remove make-up and dentures.
• Feel free to bring your favorite audio tape or CD to listen to during the test.
• IV Contrast will be given if patient has mets or previous surgery.

Post-Exam

Your MRI images will be interpreted by a board certified radiologist from Suburban Radiologic Consultants and the findings will be given to your physician. Your physician will contact you to share and discuss the results.