Lumbar Spine MRI
Imaging & Scans
≈ ¥600-1200
(≈ $85-170)
30 min
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Description
Estimated cost for Lumbar Spine MRI at general public hospitals in China is about ¥420-960, and at Grade 3A hospitals about ¥600-1200, varying by hospital tier and region.
Main Uses
Lumbar MRI is primarily used to diagnose and evaluate conditions affecting the lower back, including: disc herniations, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, infections, tumors, and fractures. It is also useful in assessing the extent of nerve root compression and planning surgical interventions.
Normal Range
A normal lumbar MRI shows no signs of disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or other abnormalities. The vertebral bodies, intervertebral discs, and spinal cord should appear healthy with no evidence of degeneration, inflammation, or tumors. There should be no nerve root compression, and the spinal canal and foramina should be patent.
Low Values - Possible Causes
Low signal intensity on T1-weighted images may indicate: dehydration of the intervertebral disc, presence of calcification, or fibrosis. Low signal on T2-weighted images can suggest: chronic disc degeneration, scar tissue, or a more solid tumor.
High Values - Possible Causes
High signal intensity on T1-weighted images is uncommon but may indicate: fat deposition, bleeding, or certain types of tumors. High signal on T2-weighted images often indicates: edema, acute inflammation, infection, or active tumor growth.