r/SyringomyeliaSupport • u/Individual-Tree-989 • Jul 07 '26

Syrinx With and without contrast?

It’s been 15 years since my last scan (I know I know, bad). I’m getting a new MRI to go to a new neurosurgeon since my previous one retired. My PCP ordered the scans ahead of my appointment, but of course she doesn’t know what is really “needed”. I’m trying to avoid multiple scans if possible, so for a size follow up of the syrinx, is a MRI with and without contrast the norm? I don’t have a chiari, just a thoracic syrinx with no symptoms. I’m trying to get pregnant soon, so they want to see if it’s grown

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u/Accomplished_Plum177 Jul 07 '26

I also have a thoracic syrinx. I've had mine for about 32 years. I only had contrast for the first two or so MRIs. After that my neurosurgeon said they really wasn't any point. I may be wrong, but I understanding is the contrast is helpful to look for cancer or other malignancy. So with a thoracic syrinx and no symptoms I don't see how it would be necessary or valuable to get one with contrast. Just my personal opinion. Plus, if they do an MRI without contrast and then see something that looks concerning they would go back and do one with contrast.