MRI CV Junction and Cervical Spine - Test, Procedure & Cost

A cervical spine MRI and MRI of the CV junction are used as a diagnostic modality to detect various conditions pertaining to the neck and upper back, these problems or abnormalities can include soft tissue abnormalities in the spinal column, which might be related to the spinal cord, nerves, and discs of the spinal column.

A cervical spine and CV junction magnetic resonance imaging scan is used as an aid in the diagnosis of problems related to the bone or soft tissue including tumors that might occur in the same. An MRI scan of the cervical spine and CV junction is a helpful tool in finding and diagnosing problems like infections or other abnormalities. The narrowing of the spinal canal which is also known as the spinal stenosis and a herniation in the spinal disc can also be viewed using the MRI scan of the cervical spine and CV junction.

CV junction or CVJ is the Craniovertebral junction, it is a region present around the upper cervical spines (known as the atlas and the axis), and the base of the skull. The craniocervical (craniovertebral) junction is a representation of a complex transitional zone that is present between the bony covering of the skull known as the cranium and the spines. The craniovertebral junction contains in itself a varying balance of different elements anatomically and radiologically.

Signs and symptoms of Cranio-vertebral Junction Anomalies can be 

• Pain in the neck.
• Pain or headache in the head especially in the back head region.
• Worsening pain of the neck and head especially while making any movements.
• The range of movements is affected in the CVJ abnormalities.
• Coughing or bending can also worsen or enhance the pain of the head and neck region.

The MRI scan is capable of representing and showing any structural or soft tissue damage in your body including the damages pertaining to the spinal nerve as well. In your spine, if there is a metal fragment causing pressure on a nerve, the MRI scan can detect the presence of these metal fragments in the spine.  The MRI scan can detect the herniation of the disc, the herniation can be caused when the inter-vertebral disc is broken and extends out through its outer covering.

No, the CV junction and cervical spine MRI are not painful or uncomfortable. The scan is a safe and accurate diagnostic modality that has minimal to no risks. It is additionally a non-invasive procedure. 

Any of the magnetic resonance-based scans operate on magnetic fields, these magnetic fields are strong enough to get interfered by the presence of any metallic device or fragment. Therefore, the presence of any metal element or device in your body is an absolute contraindication of having MRI scans. However if your doctor has prescribed it after a thorough evaluation of your metal device and medical condition, you can get the scan on your doctor's prescription.

MRI Scan for the cervical spine and CV junction has a sensitivity of 88.5% . it holds a specificity of 96.9%. The test is quite accurate and helpful in the diagnosis of lesions and abnormalities of the cervical spine and CV junction.

Yes, You can get a free consultation with Dr. Ravin Sharma (MBBS, MD in Radiology) who is available at our center with Mob. no- +919212125996 and availability 24*7*365 days.