Imaging the Spine

Imaging Modalities

Like the brain, the spine can be imaged with X-Ray, CT and MRI. X-Ray and CT are often performed initially in trauma patients to evaluate for fracture. MRI is much better at evaluating the soft tissue structures including the spinal cord, nerve roots, ligaments and disks. MRI is the imaging modality of choice in patients presenting with back pain and radiculopathy symptoms. For more on the appropriate spine imaging tests to order based on clinical presentation review the ACR appropriateness criteria here.