Neck MRI Reporting

A Neck MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique that makes use of radiowave pulses under a strong magnetic field. It is an effective tool that is used to visualize the soft tissues in the neck region. A neck MRI report is a diagnostic document outlining the findings, conclusions, and recommendations obtained after a neck MRI.

Purpose

1.Salivary Gland Disorders

Parotid gland tumors (benign and malignant)

Submandibular gland tumors

Salivary gland inflammation (sialadenitis)

Salivary gland abscess

Salivary duct obstruction or strictures

Sjögren’s syndrome–related gland changes

Recurrent parotitis

2. Lymph Node Abnormalities

Reactive lymphadenopathy

Tuberculous lymphadenitis

Lymphoma (Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin)

Metastatic lymph nodes (head & neck cancers)

Necrotic or cystic lymph nodes

Chronic lymph node enlargement of unknown cause

3. Thyroid and Parathyroid Conditions

Thyroid nodules

Thyroid goiter

Thyroid cancer

Thyroiditis

Parathyroid adenoma

Parathyroid hyperplasia

Ectopic parathyroid tissue

4. Pharynx, Larynx, and Upper Airway Disorders

Laryngeal cancer

Hypopharyngeal tumors

Oropharyngeal tumors

Vocal cord lesions

Laryngeal edema or inflammation

Subglottic stenosis

Airway narrowing or obstruction

Congenital airway anomalies

5. Soft Tissue Tumors of the Neck

Lipoma

Liposarcoma

Fibroma

Neurofibroma

Schwannoma

Soft tissue sarcomas

Vascular tumors (hemangiomas)

What It Covers?

1. Conventional Neck MRI

This is the most basic form of neck MRI scan, which does not consist of the use of any contrast-enhancing agent. It visualizes the soft tissues, muscles, glands, airway, and lymph nodes in the neck. This imaging method can be used in the detection of masses, cysts, inflammation, and anatomical abnormalities.

2. Contrast-Enhanced MRI

Generally, the contrast-enhancing agent used for the MRI procedure is IV gadolinium. It is used in the detection of tumors and their extent, infections and abscesses, and vascular lesions. During these procedures, allergen testing for the contrasting agent is required.

3. MRI Neck with Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI)

This MRI consists of a special range of sequences added to the conventional MRI. It is a useful tool in the assessment of malignancies, solid tumors, and the identification of metastatic lymph nodes.

Procedure

Once a patient arrives with a neck-related complaint, they are attended to by the consulting physician, who records the necessary clinical data.

The patient is then referred to a radiological examination, based on the case requirements.

The diagnostic imaging procedure is carried out by a radiology technician present on-site.

Once the images are obtained, they are checked for quality and compliance with the regulatory protocol.

The images are then reviewed by a radiologist, who prepares a detailed radiology report for the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Neck MRI safe?

Yes. If a proper protocol is followed, the neck MRI is a completely safe procedure.

How long does a Neck MRI last?

Generally, a simple Neck MRI procedure lasts for about 20-40 minutes.

Is fasting required before a Neck MRI?

Generally, fasting is not required before a neck MRI, but it may be required if the case requires it.

Can a neck MRI detect cancer?

Yes. Neck MRI imaging is an effective tool for detecting cancers and tumors.

Is a Neck MRI safe for children?

Yes. As there is no radiation involved in a Neck MRI, it is completely safe for children.