Neuroradiology

Neuroradiology is a subspecialty of radiology. It focuses on diagnosing abnormalities of the central and peripheral nervous system, spine, head and neck.

There are multiple neuroradiology exams that can be done. Imaging techniques include X-rays (myelograms and discograms), CT scans (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of your brain, spine and spinal cord, face and neck, and peripheral nerves. Angiographic brain and spine studies may also be performed.

Neuroradiology-related procedures are performed under imaging guidance. They include:

• A myelogram - uses real-time X-ray called fluoroscopy and an injection of contrast material to examine your spinal cord, nerve roots and spinal lining.
• A lumbar puncture – is the insertion of a thin needle between the bones in your lower spine using imaging guidance to place the needle in the right place. It is performed to:
  • take a sample of fluid from your spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid)
  • measure the cerebrospinal fluid's pressure
  • remove fluid to reduce pressure in your skull or spine
  • inject medicine including painkillers, antibiotics, chemotherapy or a spinal anaesthetic (epidural) to provide temporary or lasting pain and inflammation relief in your spine or arms and leg.
• A nerve root block - is an injection of local anaesthetic and steroid under CT guidance into the area where a nerve leaves your spine. It may be a diagnostic test to determine the source of your pain and/or therapeutic to relieve your pain.

Neuroradiology is used to help diagnose and treat brain, spine, head, and neck conditions. They include:

• Brain aneurysms - a weak or bulging area in your artery wall that supplies blood to your brain and increases your risk of a stroke.
• Alzheimer’s disease - a brain disorder that slowly destroys your memory and thinking skills.
• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) - an abnormal tangle of blood vessels where arteries and veins are unusually tangled and form direct connections that bypass normal tissues and disrupt normal blood flow and oxygen circulation.
• Carotid cavernous fistulas (CCFs) - an abnormal connection between an artery in your neck and the network of veins at the back of your eye.
• Cerebrovascular stenosis - an artery inside your skull becomes narrowed by plaque or disease.
• Spinal malformations – including spondylolisthesis, kyphosis, scoliosis, and spine balance.
• Strokes - a sudden interruption of the blood supply to your brain, which prevents oxygen and nutrients from being carried to your brain.
• Vascular tumours - tumours may be inside your skull (intracranial) or outside, in your head and neck region (extracranial), or in your spinal column. They include haemangioma, meningioma, hemangioblastoma, paraganglioma and malignant bone tumour.
• Vasospasm - narrowing of your blood vessel diameter that can lead to tissue death.

The costs of a neuroradiology will depend on your chosen healthcare specialist, the imaging techniques required, your health condition, and if minimally invasive treatment is recommended.

You will receive a formal quotation price for your medical imaging of your CNS and surrounding system following a consultation with one of our expert neuroradiologists. This formal quote will be valid for 60 days.

Ramsay is recognised by all major medical insurers. Medical insurance policies usually cover neuroradiology. We advise you to obtain written authorisation from your insurance provider before your procedure.

We have a number of finance options if you are paying for your neuroradiology yourself. These include:

•  Interest-free finance – requires no deposit and you can make monthly instalments at 0% interest.

•  All-inclusive Total Care – is a one-off payment at a pre-agreed price.

•  Pay as you go – a flexible funding option so you can pay for your neuroradiology costs as and when they arise.

The recovery process of a neuroradiology will depend on the exact diagnostic test or minimally invasive treatment for your central and peripheral nervous system, spine, head or neck.

After a myelogram, you should refrain from strenuous physical activity and bending over for one to two days.

Following a lumbar puncture, you should rest and avoid very tiring activities including too much bending, lifting, stretching or straining. A common side effect is a headache after a lumbar puncture. This is caused by a drop in pressure around your brain when the membrane is punctured and fluid is removed. You should keep well-hydrated and you may take simple painkillers to help relieve the pain. Some people can experience backache following a lumbar puncture and painkillers can treat this. 

If you have an epidural injection to reduce pain and inflammation in your back, neck, arms, or legs, your pain may not improve immediately. The medication will take effect progressively over the first 48 hours. It may even feel slightly worse initially. The effects may last for days, weeks, and occasionally months.