HomeWhat you need to know about MRI

What you need to know about MRI

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a modern, safe and painless diagnostic method that allows for detailed examination of internal organs, tissues and blood vessels without the use of X-rays. Thanks to a strong magnetic field and radio waves, the doctor receives accurate images in three-dimensional format.

Before the examination, it is important to inform about the presence of metal implants or a pacemaker. The procedure lasts from 15 to 60 minutes. MRI helps to detect tumors, inflammatory processes, injuries, pathologies of the brain, spine, joints and internal organs at early stages.

How MRI is performed

01/

Before starting, the doctor explains how the MRI will be performed and answers the patient's questions. It is important to inform about the presence of pacemakers, metal implants, prostheses or plates. Before entering the room, you need to remove all metal objects - jewelry, watches, belts, glasses, hearing aids. If contrast is planned, the doctor may recommend not eating for several hours before the procedure.

02/

The patient is asked to change into comfortable medical clothing without metal parts. Then he or she is placed on a special tomography table. Medical staff helps to take the correct position to avoid movements during the scan. Soft rollers or clamps are used for comfort, and headphones or earplugs are used to reduce noise.

03/

In some cases, for clearer visualization of blood vessels or neoplasms, a contrast agent is used, which is injected intravenously. It allows the doctor to more accurately assess the condition of organs and tissues. Contrast is safe for most patients and is excreted from the body within a day. A short-term feeling of warmth or metallic taste is possible - this is a normal reaction.

04/

After preparation, the table slowly moves inside the device. During the examination, the patient hears rhythmic sounds - this is the work of magnetic coils. The doctor observes the process through a special window and communicates via microphone. The procedure lasts from 15 to 45 minutes depending on the area of examination. During this time, you need to lie still to get the clearest possible images.

05/

After the examination is completed, the patient is slowly taken out of the CT scanner. If contrast was used, it is recommended to drink more fluids during the day.The procedure does not require recovery or special care - you can return to normal activities immediately after MRI.

06/

The images obtained during MRI are analyzed by a radiologist. Based on the data, he/she prepares a conclusion indicating the peculiarities of the structure of the organs, the presence of changes or pathologies. The results can be obtained in digital form (on a disk, flash drive or online) and in printed form. The referring physician uses this data to make a diagnosis and choose further treatment tactics.

Features of MRI in certain conditions

Please note that the presence of the following conditions may require additional preparation or be a limitation for MRI.

MRI is a highly accurate diagnostic method, but in some cases requires caution:

  • Metal implants (pacemakers, stents, prostheses) may limit MRI scanning or require special modes.
  • Claustrophobia - patients with a fear of confined spaces sometimes require sedation or an open tomograph.
  • Renal insufficiency - gadolinium-based contrast is used cautiously or not used.
  • Pregnancy - MRI in the first trimester is performed only for vital signs, no contrast is used.
  • Children and patients with disabilities - shorter scan or light sedation may be used.
MRI is safe, but requires an individual approach and consideration of the patient's characteristics.
kt_image_1

How to prepare for MRI diagnostics

It is necessary to take the examination with you to the MRI:

Results of previous examinations (CDs with CT or MRI scans, X-rays, medical reports). Medical documentation reflecting the history of the disease - extracts from medical records, expert opinions, laboratory test results (if available). A referral from a doctor or a specialist's report that recommended MRI.  

Quality of medical records:

  • Medical documentation of inadequate quality is not taken into account.
  • Printouts with fuzzy images are not used.
  • Copies of poor quality or incomplete survey results may be rejected.
  • In this case, the doctor may ask to repeat the examination.

Preparing for individual studies

MRI with contrast agent

  • take a blood test for creatinine and inform us of its result by phone
  • limit fluid intake 2 hours before the study

MRI of the brain

  • Limit fluid intake 2 hours before the test
  • If you have claustrophobia or increased anxiety, inform your doctor in advance
  • If you are planning a study with contrast, take a blood test for creatinine and report the result
  • Abstain from alcohol and caffeinated beverages the day before
  • If possible, do not use cosmetics or hair products with metal particles

MRI of the spine

  • Limit fluid and food intake 2 hours before the test
  • Remove all metal objects (jewelry, belt, watch, etc.)
  • If you have implants, metal plates or a pacemaker, be sure to inform the staff
  • If the examination is performed with contrast, a blood test for creatinine is required

MRI of joints

  • Limit food and fluid intake 2 hours before the test
  • Remove metal objects from the body and clothing
  • If it is necessary to introduce contrast, a blood test for creatinine should be done beforehand
  • Avoid intense physical activity on the joint under study for 1 day

MRI of blood vessels (MR angiography)

  • In case of examination with contrast, take a blood test for creatinine and report the result
  • Limit fluid intake 2 hours before the procedure
  • Do not drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages 24 hours before the study
  • If you have allergies or chronic heart disease, inform your doctor

MRI of the pelvic organs

  • Do not eat black bread, legumes (soybeans, peanuts, etc.), raw vegetables and fruits, dairy products 2 days before the test
  • 6 hours before the study, avoid eating and limit fluid intake as much as possible
  • Cleanse the rectum with microclysters 4-6 hours before the test
  • Empty your bladder before the test
  • It is not recommended to conduct the test from 1 to 5 days of the menstrual cycle; in case of menopause or in an emergency - on any day of the cycle

MRI of soft tissues

  • Limit fluid intake 2 hours before the test
  • Remove all metal objects
  • If contrast is planned, take a blood test for creatinine
  • The day before the examination, avoid physical exertion on the area to be examined

Sign up for an examination

Service: