MRI cisternography is a high-resolution MRI technique that uses heavily T2-weighted sequences (e.g., FIESTA/CISS) to make cerebrospinal fluid appear very bright, clearly delineating subarachnoid cisterns, cranial nerves and CSF leaks. It helps detect skull‑base defects, CSF rhinorrhoea/otorrhoea, arachnoid cysts and nerve compression. It is generally noninvasive; intrathecal contrast is rarely used for complex cases.

Cost varies widely by country, facility and whether contrast/consultation is included. Typical private fees: India roughly ₹3,000–15,000; United Kingdom: usually provided free on the NHS but private scans about £400–1,500; United States: commonly $700–4,000 (higher at some hospitals). Insurance coverage or public systems can greatly reduce out‑of‑pocket costs—ask local providers for exact pricing.

An MRI detects structural and pathological changes in soft tissues and organs, including brain abnormalities (tumors, stroke, multiple sclerosis), spinal cord and nerve compression, herniated discs, joint injuries (ligaments, tendons, cartilage), tumors and cysts, infections and inflammation, and vascular problems (aneurysms or vessel narrowing via MR angiography). It provides detailed anatomy to guide diagnosis and treatment planning.

A cisternogram usually involves a lumbar puncture to inject a small amount of radioactive tracer into the spinal cerebrospinal fluid. The patient lies flat briefly, then has serial gamma‑camera imaging over several hours to days (commonly immediate, 4–6, 24, sometimes 48 hours) to track CSF flow and identify leaks or impaired circulation. Monitoring and infection precautions are observed.

Yes — a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak can be serious. It often causes orthostatic headache, nausea, neck stiffness, hearing changes or clear drainage from the nose/ear. Complications include meningitis, intracranial hypotension and subdural hematoma. Prompt medical evaluation and imaging are important; treatment ranges from conservative measures to an epidural blood patch or surgery depending on cause and severity.

A cystogram uses X‑ray imaging to examine the bladder after sterile catheter insertion. Radiopaque contrast is instilled through the catheter while fluoroscopic or serial X‑rays are taken during bladder filling and often during voiding to detect leaks, perforation, or reflux. The skin is cleaned first; the test usually takes 15–30 minutes and may cause mild discomfort during catheter placement and filling.