Regular x-ray machines cannot always see instability. At Prairie Spine, we offer advanced functional imaging tests, also known as VMA. Andrew Kitterman, PA-C at Prairie Spine goes over VMA and what the incredible advantages are to using it and how it works! Read the article below for more information and see what advancements Prairie Spine has made to ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for you. If you have any questions or to schedule an appointment please contact us at 309-691-7774.
Prairie Spine and Pain Institute is proud to offer an advanced functional imaging test known as a VMA (Vertebral Motion Analysis) scan for both the cervical and lumbar spine. This is an FDA cleared, non-invasive, video x-ray which is performed at both our Peoria and Marion location. The VMA measures spine motion in order to look for instability that can occur between the vertebral bodies in the spine. Some instability can only be detected during bending and functional movements that may not be captured on a standard static upright x-ray. The Motion Analysis scan can be especially effective in detecting instability that may have been sustained from a recent injury.
The entire test typically takes about 20 minutes and involves the patient being placed in a machine that gently guides motion. While you are performing bends guided by the machine the x-ray technician will be capturing images that will later be analyzed and generated into a detailed report. The test may cause some mild discomfort, but can detect instability that the surgeon may otherwise never know about. This test has the potential of improving long term surgical outcomes giving objective findings.
