Advanced Open Lumbar Spine MRI in Houston — Walters Road

Understand the examination

About Open Lumbar Spine MRI

For an open lumbar spine MRI, describe how your lower-back pain affects lying down and getting on or off the table. Ask about the support used for your examination and how to tell the technologist if the position becomes difficult. Choosing an open scanner may help with enclosed-space concerns, but pain and mobility needs still deserve a separate plan.

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

Lower-back comfort on an open scanner

Tell the team about lumbar surgery, spinal fixation or an implanted pain device. Supply device details before the appointment when requested. Read any contrast instructions from the order rather than assuming all lower-back scans use the same protocol. If your referral also mentions the sacrum or sacroiliac joints, point that out when booking so the requested coverage is clear.

Scan Preparation

A doctor’s order is required before your scan. Describe what happens when you lie flat and whether you need help getting up. Supply requested implant records in advance and confirm any contrast instructions, especially when your order relates to previous back surgery. Ask about supports for the planned position.

Lower-back surgery and implanted pain devices

Tell scheduling about previous lumbar operations and any implanted pain pump or stimulator. Device identification and scanning conditions need review even if an earlier MRI went well. Also identify any sacrum or sacroiliac-joint wording; these requests should not be assumed to be part of a routine lumbar examination.

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

The technologist helps position your lower back for the ordered scan. Discuss leg support and any pain before the sequences begin. If discomfort increases, use the agreed signal rather than moving unexpectedly during imaging.

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.