
Radiology/Spinal Triage and Treat: MRI/Spinal Scan
Following your consultation, your specialist has recommended that you get a scan of your spine. This scan may be an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or an X-ray. This recommendation is based on information about your condition, a physical examination, and a conversation about your preferences.
Important information about spinal scans
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- When spinal scans are recommended
Spinal scans are recommended when a serious medical condition, such as cancer or infection, is suspected. Fortunately, these conditions are rare. Spinal scans are also recommended when they are likely to help guide a specific treatment, like nerve injections. - Scan Report
After your scan, a medical report will be created based on observations of your spinal anatomy. - Medical Jargon
Some of the words in the report might be difficult to understand and may sound scary. For example, you might see terms like ‘degeneration of discs.’ This finding is quite common, especially in people aged 50 or older who don’t experience pain. It usually means your spine is maturing normally. - Interpretation
Your specialist will help you understand the results and discuss any necessary actions. It is important that we don’t overinterpret findings beyond what we are checking for. Most findings on scans do not explain how someone feels and are not a diagnosis. Keep this document safe so you can use it as a reminder when you talk to your specialist.
- When spinal scans are recommended
You are scheduled for a: |
Your specialist wants to check for: |
Contact us
For further information please contact us on:
Telephone: 01642 944703
Available: Monday to Friday, 8.30am until 4.30pm (except bank holidays)
Email: [email protected]
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact the patient experience department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the patient experience department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print by emailing: [email protected]