Magnetic resonance imaging, most commonly known as MRI scan, is an advanced medical scan that has a significant role in the medical industry. Healthcare advisors use this imaging scan to detect or monitor several health conditions. In this article, let’s explore the definition, purposes, procedure and preparation of an MRI scan.
What is an MRI scan?
A magnetic resonance imaging or MRI scan is a non-invasive imaging procedure that produces very clear and detailed images of the internal organs and structures of the body. It uses large powerful magnets, radio waves and a computer to create a detailed picture. Also, as this imaging scan does not use radiation, it is considered a safe diagnostic scan.
What is an MRI with contrast?
Certain types of MRIs require contrast material, which helps produce clear images. The contrast material contains gadolinium, which is a rare earth metal. When the substance is present in the body, it alters the magnetic properties of nearby water molecules, which improves the quality of the images. The contrast material is usually used to improve the visibility of the following:
- Tumours
- Infections
- Blood vessels
- Inflammation
- Blood supply to certain organs
However, contrast materials are safe to use during an MRI, and it is inserted into the body through an intravenous catheter (IV line) into a vein in your hand.
What are the uses of an MRI scan?
Healthcare professionals use an MRI scan for a variety of reasons. The following are the examples in which an MRI is used:
- To diagnose anomalies of the brain and spinal cord
- To check for tumours, cysts, and other abnormal masses in various body parts in the body
- To screen for breast cancer in high-risk people
- To detect injuries or other abnormalities of the joints
- To diagnose certain cardiovascular diseases
- To look for diseases involving the liver and abdominal organs
- To evaluate the cause of pelvic pain in women
- To check for uterine anomalies in women undergoing infertility evaluation
Who should not get an MRI?
In the majority of cases, MRIs are considered to be safe for people with certain types of metal implants. However, if the device you have is not MRI-safe, then you might not be able to undergo an MRI. The devices may include:
- Some cochlear implants
- Some older pacemakers and cardiac defibrillators
- Metallic joint prostheses
- Some types of clips used for brain aneurysm
- Certain kinds of metal coils planted within blood vessels
- Vagal nerve stimulators
If you have any medical device or implants in the body, make sure to consult your doctor before undergoing an MRI.
How to prepare for an MRI?
Due to the fact that an MRI scanner uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the internal structures, it may also cause heating or possible movements of metal objects in the body. This could cause potential safety issues. It can also cause some implanted electronic medical devices to malfunction. This is why it is advisable to remove any kind of metallic objects like watches, belts, and wallets from your body. Also, if you have any implanted medical device, make sure to consult your doctor before the scan. If you live in Bangalore, you can simply book an appointment for an MRI scan in Bangalore online. Also, MRI scan price in Bangalore is quite affordable.
How long does an MRI take?
Depending on the type of MRI scan and machine used, the MRI scan may take 30 to 50 minutes to complete.
What is the procedure of an MRI?
Although MRI is a painless procedure, you might feel uncomfortable as you are required to stay still during the scan. On the other hand, some people may feel claustrophobic due to the closed-in space of an MRI machine. However, claustrophobic people may also opt for open MRIs. Also, the MRI machine can be noisy.
During the test, you will be changed into a hospital gown. You will need to lie down on your back or belly on the examination table. Then the examination table will slide into the MRI machine.
During the course of the procedure, you may hear loud sounds. Each series of sounds may last for a couple of minutes. You may also be given an earplug or headphones before the scan. However, you are required to stay still during the whole procedure to ensure better quality of images.
Also, it may experience a slight warmness in or around the part being scanned. The technologist will be able to see and talk with you via an intercom system.
Since the invention of the MRI machine, healthcare providers have been using MRIs to detect and monitor various health conditions, including injuries, tumors, certain heart problems and other conditions. Also, they are safer than conventional imaging scans, as it does not use radiation. MRI technology is being improved all the time. If you are claustrophobic with the conventional MRI machine, then you can opt for an open MRI scanner.
