Medical Imaging

Back to All Tests

If your doctor suspects an underlying medical condition is contributing to your symptoms, he or she may order an MRI or CT scan. MRI or CT scans can reveal herniated disks, pinched nerves, growths or other problems affecting the blood vessels and bones.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used to produce high quality images of the inside of the human body. A scanner emits a strong magnetic field inside the brain (or elsewhere in the body) and produce signals that are analyzed by a computer to produce detailed images.

Different organs can be studied with MRI imaging. MRI neurography is a technique that specifically images the peripheral nerves. This technique can be a complement to electrodiagnostic testing. MRI neurography can detect abnormalities earlier than electrodiagnostic testing after nerve injury and can also help your doctor differentiate between different types of peripheral neuropathy.

Other MRI techniques can be performed to exclude other disorders that produce similar symptoms.

Typically, the patient slides into a tube-like cylinder (scanner) while lying on a table. The patient is asked to lie very still. The fit can be tight and may cause claustrophobia (fear of enclosed/small places). Due to the use of a magnetic field, patients with a pacemaker or a metal implant are not able to undergo an MRI. Some implants are inert and do not react to an MRI.

For most people, the procedure is painless. However, sometimes claustrophobia can be a problem, and the patient is given a medication for relaxation.

A CT scan is an x-ray procedure that combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. A CT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and/or assist in procedures by helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments.

A CT scan is not a test for peripheral neuropathy, but is performed to exclude other disorders that produce similar symptoms. CT scans are performed to analyze the internal structures of various parts of the body.

Prior to a CT scan, patients are often asked to avoid food, especially when contrast material is to be used. Contrast material may be injected intravenously, or administered by mouth or by an enema in order to increase the distinction between the signal of various organs or areas of the body.

Patients are placed on a movable table, and the table is slipped into the center of a large donut-shaped machine, which takes the x-ray images around the body. The procedure usually takes around half an hour.

A CT scan is painless, but requires some patience, as the patient must remain still. Patients who are claustrophobic (fear of enclosed/small places) may need a medication for relaxation.

Help improve the lives of those with PN. Your contribution helps us support research and provide an improved quality of life for those affected.