MRI lumbar spine with gadolinium

Strengths

Symptoms in post surgical patients or cancer patients generally need gadolinium. Suspected infection or myelitis also benefit. Can be very difficult to see epidural abscess without contrast.

Limitations

For disc disease, pain, spinal stenosis and general screening, gadolinium usually not needed.

Contraindications

1) Standard MR questionaire as to contraindicated implanted devices, surgery, etc.; 2) Gadolinium will be dose-adjusted dependent upon creatinine clearance. It will not be given with CrCl <30 due to risk of NSF.

To schedule, call Orange Coast or Saddleback Medical Center — numbers on the contact page.