MRI Scan

What is a MRI Test?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan utilizes strong magnetic fields and radio frequency waves to generate detailed cross-sectional images of a patient’s internal organs of the body. Also, it does not involve the use of radioactive material or x-rays. This makes the technique ideal for screening and determining very early stages of certain diseases such as cancer, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.

It is also very useful for diagnosis of injuries in the brain, spine, tissues and organs of the body.

An MRI Scan differs from CT scans and X-ray scans because MRI scans do not make use of ionizing radiation which can be potentially harmful to the body.

MRI Scan Machine

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What are the uses of MRI Scans?

• Shows abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord.
• To view tumours, cysts and other abnormalities in various parts of the body.
• Injuries and abnormality of the joints
• Heart problems
• Certain diseases
• Causes of pelvic pain in women
• Other uterine abnormalities in women

How to prepare for an MRI Scan?

Before Scan:

• Before the MRI scan, eat and take usual medications otherwise instructed.
• The hospital staff will instruct you to wear loose clothes without metal fasteners. If not, then you need to change in to hospital gown.
• You need to remove wigs, dentures, hearing aids, glasses etc. before the test. Metal objects may interfere with the magnetic field during exam and may  affect the quality of images.
• Tell the technologist if you are pregnant.
• The magnetic field may damage electronic items. Tell the technologist if you have the following items:
  • Prosthetic joints
  • Pacemaker or artificial heart valve
  • Implanted venous access device
  • Inner ear implants
  • Spinal stimulator
  • Intrauterine device (IUD)
  • Metal plates, pins, screws, staples or bullets/shrapnel
  • Tattoos or permanent make-up
  • Anxiety in confined spaces (claustrophobia)

Some MRI scans involve injection of contrast dye. This makes certain tissues and blood vessels show up more clearly. Although it is possible for a contrast dye to cause tissue damage in people suffering from severe kidney problems.

Let the staff know if you have a history of allergy or any blood clotting problems.

During the MRI scan:

On arrival at the hospital, the hospital staff may ask you to change in to hospital gown.

The nurse might inject intravenous (IV) contrast liquid to improve the appearance of certain body tissues.

A MRI has a large cylindrical magnet with a central opening. Also, a sliding table rests in the opening. You will needed to lie flat on the table comfortably.

The table will slide into the opening. The technologist will be in the adjoining room, but they can see and hear you, and will communicate with you.

During the exam, you need to remain still as any movement may blur the image.

The process takes about 30-45 minutes.

After the MRI scan:

The radiologist will examine the images to check if they require any further images. You can go home once the radiologist say so.

MRI Scan Machine

(Image credits: shutterstock.com)