Thoracolumbar Spine Protocol

Typical Scan Protocol

The protocol below represents a full thoracolumbar exam. There is a lot of variation depending on the clinical question and clinician preference. The minimum recommended sequences depend on pathology, so no sequences are in bold. It is highly recommended to include at least 1 sequence, either T2 or STIR, in the dorsal plane and at least 1 sequence with fat saturation if contrast is administered.

Sagittal T2 Lumbar
Sagittal T2 Thoracic
Sagittal STIR Lumbar
Sagittal STIR Thoracic
Sagittal T1 Lumbar
Sagittal T1 Thoracic
Axial T2 ROI
Axial T1 ROI
Contrast
Sagittal T1 ROI
Axial T1 ROI

Optional Sequences
3D Myelogram
HASTE Myelogram
Multi-echo GRE