Advanced Open Cervical Spine MRI in Houston — Walters Road

Understand the examination

About Open Cervical Spine MRI

An open cervical spine MRI focuses on the neck portion of the spine. Tell the Walters Road team if keeping your neck still is difficult, if you need support beneath your head or if a previous neck operation affects your movement. Discuss the expected position in advance. A more open scanner does not remove the need to keep the neck steady during the image sets.

For details about the examination itself, see our Cervical spine MRI guide. Compare all open MRI examinations at Walters Road.

Neck support without forcing a position

Cervical spine, soft-tissue neck and neck angiography are different orders. Bring the wording your doctor provided and any implant card from neck surgery. If lying flat worsens your symptoms, tell the team before the scan starts. Do not force your neck into an uncomfortable position because you assume it is necessary for an open examination.

Scan Preparation

A doctor’s order is required before your scan. Provide any requested information about cervical plates, screws or other implants before arrival. Tell scheduling if you use a neck collar or cannot lie flat comfortably. Confirm how the neck will be supported and follow the instructions for your prescribed collar.

Match the order to the neck spine

Cervical spine MRI targets the neck portion of the spine. If the referral instead names a neck mass, soft tissues or neck blood vessels, ask the referring office to clarify the examination. Mention previous neck fusion and any movement restrictions when the team reviews your order.

MRI safety and your appointment

Open MRI still requires safety screening. Tell the team about implants, metal, possible pregnancy, kidney conditions and previous contrast reactions. Follow the preparation instructions for your appointment.

During your open MRI

Your head and neck are positioned for the cervical images. Let the technologist know if the support worsens discomfort before scanning starts. Follow their instructions for staying still without forcing your neck into position.

Imaging Results & Reports

Your radiologist’s report goes to the ordering clinician, who will explain the findings and next steps. Contact our records team for copies of your images or report.