MRI

What is MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)?

MRI is a method of producing extremely detailed pictures of body tissues & organs without the need for x-rays. MRI uses radiowaves & a strong magnetic field. In a strong magnetic field the radiowaves are directed at protons, the nuclei of hydrogen atoms. The protons are first excited & then "relaxed" emitting radio signals, which can be computer processed to form an image.

MRI requires specialized equipment & expertise & allows evaluation of somebody structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods.

Why it is done?

MRI gives such clear pictures of soft tissue structures near & around bones, it is the most sensitive exam for brain, spine & joint problems. Organs of the chest and abdomen- including lungs, liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas & abdominal vessels can also be examined in high detail in MRI images, enabling the diagnosis & evaluation of tumours & functional disorders .

In addition MRI of the heart, aorta, coronary arteries & blood vessels is a fast, noninvasive tool for diagnosing heart problems .

MR angiography (MRA) is an MRI study of the blood vessels. It utilizes MR technology to detect, diagnosis & aid the treatment of heart disorders, stroke & blood vessels diseases. MRA provides detailed images of the blood vessels without using any contrast medium, although today a special form of contrast usually is given to make the MR images even clearer .

How it is done?

Before taking the patient in for the MR exam MRI staff will ask whether you have a prosthetic hip, heart pacemakers, intrauterine device, or any metal plates, pins, screws, or surgical staples in your body because the strong magnetic field used for MRI will pull on any ferromagnetic metal object implanted in the body. In most cases surgical staples, plates, pins & screws pose no risk during MRI if they have been in place for more than 4-6 weeks. Tooth fillings usually are not affected by the magnetic field.

Patient is asked to change into a gown before the examination & placed on a sliding table & positioned comfortably for the MRI examination. Patient is asked not to move during the actual imaging process, but between sequences some movement is allowed. Patients are generally required to remain still for only a few seconds to a few minutes at a time. The patient is able to ommunicate with the radiologist or technician at any time using an intercom.

Depending on the part of the body being examined, a contrast agent may be used into a vein to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. When the exam is over the patient is asked to wait until the images are examined to determine if more images are needed.

You can directly call the MRI section or reception of the department for the appointment & special instructions.

When it is done?

MRI is done when a physician wants to evaluate function as well as the structures of many organs such as the brain, heart, lung, liver & other organs. It enables the detection of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone with other imaging methods.

Preparation for the services?

• You can eat normally before the examinations.
• Medications may be taken as usual.
• For the MR angiography 2 hours fasting is required.

Tarrif

As per EHIRC Rate List.