MRI Thoracic Spine
Detailed MRI of the thoracic spine for mid-back pain, disc disease, and cord-level pathology.
Find MRI Thoracic Spine near you
What a mri thoracic spine shows
- Thoracic disc herniation and degeneration
- Spinal cord compression and myelopathy
- Compression and pathologic fractures
- Tumor, metastasis, and infection
- Post-traumatic injury
- Demyelinating lesions in the spinal cord
Why your physician orders it
- Mid-back pain not improving with conservative care
- Band-like chest or trunk numbness
- Leg weakness or balance issues with suspected cord involvement
- Post-trauma evaluation after a fall or collision
- MS or other neurologic work-up at the thoracic level
Contrast notes
Most musculoskeletal MRI is performed without contrast. Gadolinium is reserved for select indications — post-operative scar vs. recurrent disc, suspected infection or tumor, or arthrographic protocols. Your ordering physician and our radiologist will confirm contrast use before the exam, and kidney function is screened first when contrast is planned.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full MRI prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 30–60 minutes at the imaging center. You'll change into a gown and remove all metal. A technologist positions you on the table with the coil over the area being imaged; the table then slides into the magnet.
MRI is loud — you'll wear ear protection and can listen to music or talk to the technologist through the intercom at any time. Holding still for each sequence (typically 2–5 minutes each) produces the sharpest images.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary thoracic spine MRI when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for MRI Thoracic Spine
Sub-specialty Reads
Fellowship-trained neuro, MSK, and body radiologists interpret every study.
Open & Wide-Bore Options
Comfortable choices for claustrophobic, pediatric, or larger patients.
Same-Day Appointments
Most locations offer same- or next-day scheduling, including evenings and weekends.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a mri thoracic spine location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see MRI locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
Why is thoracic MRI less common than cervical or lumbar?
The thoracic spine is stabilized by the rib cage and develops symptomatic disc disease less often than the neck or low back, so it's ordered less frequently. When mid-back pain or cord-level symptoms occur, it's the right study.
How long does the exam take?
Plan for 30–45 minutes inside the scanner.
Do I need contrast?
Most thoracic spine MRIs are non-contrast. Gadolinium is added for suspected tumor, infection, or demyelinating disease.
What if my pain crosses multiple regions?
Your physician may order a full-spine MRI or pair two regional exams. We'll schedule whatever the order specifies and confirm prior authorization for both if needed.
How much does a thoracic spine MRI cost?
Insured patients pay their plan's cost-share. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.
When will my doctor get the report?
The signed final report is typically delivered to your ordering physician the same business day.