Loaded Lumbar Imaging
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Axial loading for MRI/CT v’s STAND UP MRI
At Lenox Hill Radiology & Medical Imaging Associates P.C. we pride ourselves on our unique ability to offer access to the latest advances in medical imaging. We are currently the only facility in Manhattan to offer the DynaWell® L-Spine device. This device simulates axial compression while standing, offers a higher resolution alternative to stand-up MRI and can also be used with our Open MRI.| Comparison of Radiologic Signs and Clinical Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis |
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Axial loading for MRI/CT |
For more information about Dynawell® L-Spine please click here
Axial Loading during MR Imaging Can Influence Treatment Decision for Symptomatic Spinal Stenosis - AJNR Am. J. Neuroradiolgy, Feb 2004
DynaWell® L-Spine grew out of a need to scan spine disorders and lower back problems with greater accuracy. Designed for use on CT or MRI scanners, it simulates the axial compression on a patient’s spine when standing. The optimal way for a patient with back pain to be diagnosed is in a standing position with the normal gravitational pressure exerted on the spine. This is impractical, however, since it would require the patient to stand motionless for about 30 minutes. Problems that would ordinarily remain undetected when the patient’s spine is relaxed are visible with the use of this unit. Published studies in, among others “Spine”, and ongoing studies verify that the DynaWell methodology is valuable in lumbar spine pathology (spinal stenosis, sciatica, disc herniation, synovial cysts) and hip, knee and ankle pathology. With DynaWell, clinical studies show that it is possible to achieve a more specific and valid diagnosis, compared with regular non-loaded PRP. The invention itself was made by a group of physicians at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, who also documented the medical benefits scientifically. DynaWell has received FDA Approval and CE Certification.
For Patients - DynaWell L-Spine loaded lumbar imaging is comfortable and may allow for earlier and more valid diagnosis, allowing physicians to treat their spinal disorder, help them to return to a pain free lifestyle through enhanced imaging of the lower back.
How does it work?
As with an ordinary CT or MRI scan, the patient is asked to lie down on a flat table. The patient wears the DynaWell L-Spine vest over his⁄hers shoulders and upper chest. The straps on the vest are tightened over the patient’s chest and the patient’s feet are placed against the footplate of the compression device. Two adjustable cords on opposite sides of the vest are attached to the medical compression device. By tightening the cords to a desired and measured load (up to 50% of body weight), it is possible to compress the spinal cord in a way that is similar to that of upright posture. The DynaWell L-Spine compression device helps patients remain motionless and distributes the pressure across the chest rather than the shoulders, without the disadvantages of stand-up, which include motion and less than highfield strength MRI. DynaWell can be used on our 1.5T short bore magnets providing advantages of highfield MRI.
