Cervical Spine MRI Protocol

The protocol below represents a full cervical spine exam. There is variation depending on the clinical question and clinician preference. It is highly suggested to acquire at last one post contrast series with fat saturation. For scanning technique, see the Cervical Spine MRI Guide

Disclaimer: Please keep in mind any parameters, positioning, or coil selections listed are meant to serve as a guideline, your particular scanner specifications and coil set may vary, necessitating different parameters than those listed.

Position: Supine or Prone

Coil: Flex coil, Quad Knee, Spine Coil, or Knee Coil

Parameters:

FOV: Sm (12cm) Med (15cm) Lg (18cm)

Resolution: 0.6mm x 0.8mm

Slice Thickness: 2.5-3.5mm

Averages/NEX: 4

Sagittal T2
Sagittal STIR
Sagittal T1
Axial T2
Axial T1
Contrast
Sagittal T1
Axial T1