Nociscan: Finding the Painful Disc Without Needles

For people with long-lasting low back pain, one of the hardest questions is which disc is actually causing the pain. Dr. Grunch is one of the spine surgeons who uses Nociscan, a newer test that helps answer that question with an MRI instead of needles.

Nociscan is a specialized MRI test for the lower back. During a lumbar MRI, an extra scanning sequence called MR spectroscopy measures the chemistry inside each disc being studied. Software then analyzes those chemical signals, which have been linked to painful discs, and reports which discs are likely to be a source of pain and which are not.

Unlike a discogram, there are no needles, no dye and no radiation.

Learn more about the technology from its maker, Aclarion, at aclarion.com.

Nociscan helps Dr. Grunch:

• Identify which lumbar disc or discs are likely causing discogenic back pain
• Tell apart discs that look worn on MRI but are not painful from those that are
• Decide which levels to treat with a lumbar fusion or lumbar disc replacement, and avoid treating discs that are not the problem

It is used for patients with chronic low back pain from degenerative disc disease who are being considered for surgery. The results are always combined with your symptoms, exam and other imaging.

• Prepare the same way as for a regular MRI, including telling the imaging center about any implants and leaving metal at home.
• No fasting or medicine changes are usually needed.
• Check insurance coverage before your scan. Because Nociscan is newer, coverage varies and the office can help you understand your options.
• Nociscan is offered only at certain imaging centers. Our office will direct you to one.

The test feels exactly like a regular lumbar MRI. You lie still on your back while the machine takes pictures. The spectroscopy portion adds some extra time to the scan, so plan for the visit to take longer than a standard MRI.

You can drive and go back to normal activities right away. The data are analyzed and a report is sent to Dr. Grunch, which can take several days. She will go over the results with you along with your MRI pictures and your overall treatment plan.

Nociscan is as safe as a regular MRI. It uses no radiation, no dye and no needles. The only safety concerns are the same as any MRI: metal and certain implants.

What is Nociscan?

Nociscan is a noninvasive MRI-based test for the lower back. It measures the chemistry inside each disc and helps show which discs are likely causing pain.

How is Nociscan different from a discogram?

A discogram places needles into the discs and injects dye to see which disc reproduces your pain. Nociscan gathers similar information from an MRI, with no needles, dye or radiation.

Does insurance cover Nociscan?

Coverage varies because it is a newer test. Our office can help you check your coverage before the scan.

Can Nociscan be used for the neck?

Nociscan is designed for the lumbar spine (lower back).

If Dr. Grunch has ordered a Nociscan for you and you have questions, call 470-293-9800 or contact us. You can also ask general questions any time through our “Ask Us Anything” chat. For questions about scheduling, cost or arrival time for the test itself, call the imaging center where it is booked.

Related: All imaging and diagnostic tests · Discogenic back pain · Discogram

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace individualized care from a licensed physician. Please talk to your provider about your symptoms and follow the instructions from your imaging center.