The cervical spine refers to the neck. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create detailed image slices (cross sections) of the neck. MRI technology produces better soft-tissue images than X-rays, which allow the physician to accurately evaluate different types of body tissue including the spinal cord, vertebral disks and surrounding tissues, as well as distinguish normal, healthy tissue from diseased tissue.

If patients are claustrophobic (fearful of small, enclosed areas) or experience pain when lying on their back for more than 30 minutes, the physician may prescribe a relaxant or pain medication to help them through the procedure.

For this exam, the patient is positioned on the scanning table headfirst with arms at the side. Coils (special devices to improve image quality) may be placed on or around the cervical spine area. The scanning table slides into the magnet, covering the whole body. During the scan patients do not feel anything, but they hear intermittent humming, thumping, clicking and knocking sounds. Earplugs are provided to help mask the noise.

In some cases, the radiologist requests a contrast agent (dye) to improve the quality of the images. Before the exam, patients must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician if they have allergies, are pregnant or are nursing. Patients may eat and drink before the exam. The contrast agent is injected into a vein in the arm, which may cause a cool sensation. As pictures are taken, the patient must hold very still, and in some cases, hold their breath. The technologist is always able to see and hear the patient during the approximately 30-minute exam.