The UCSF Precision Spine and Peripheral Nerve Center offers advanced imaging technology and neuroradiologist expertise to treat and diagnose complex spine, back and nerve pain.

During spine procedures, we use state-of-the-art 1.5T and 3.0T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners and 64-slice computed tomography (CT) scanners for unparalleled precision and patient safety. We are the only medical center in Northern California to integrate high-field MRI and high-resolution CT for the diagnosis and treatment of spine and peripheral nerve problems. We are often able to locate the true source of our patients' pain, and then safely deliver pain medication to that location with pinpoint accuracy. In addition, we use low-dose CT and X-ray fluoroscopy techniques, pioneered by our radiologists and scientists, to minimize patients' radiation exposure during spinal procedures.

Most of our patients experience a dramatic decrease in pain after our CT-guided spinal injection procedures. This allows them to participate in physical therapy, return to their daily activities and in some cases, gives them more time to evaluate surgical options. Some of our patients who have undergone kyphoplasty for compression fractures of the spine have been able to avoid needing to use a wheelchair or enter a nursing home.