MRI Scan
What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging? (MRI)
An MRI scan is a painless and non-invasive process that creates 3d images. Imaging the internal organs and tissues are done using a high electromagnetic field and radio waves. Powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer create a cross-sectional MRI image of organs and structures.
Patients move their bodies into the tube’s centre to enter the scanner. This type of imaging does not require the use of ionizing radiation, unlike CT and X-ray scans. MRIs are non-invasive ways for doctors to study organs, tissues, and bones. It produces high-resolution images of the body’s insides to diagnose abnormalities.
How you prepare for an MRI
Do not skip meals or take medicine before an MRI unless instructed. Enema is recommended for patients who are undergoing an MRI of the prostate. Four hours before your visit, please refrain from eating anything. Please refrain from eating for four hours earlier than your appointment if you’re having an MRCP. Please continue taking all of your prescription medication. The name of the drug, the dosage, and the frequency of use should be included on a medication list that you bring with you to your appointment. For your exam, you’ll be asked to wear a gown. And take off anything that could interfere with the magnetic imaging.
Prior to an MRI scan
Bring your order form for the exam on appointment day. Before your exam, complete a patient history form. Patient history form did for patient compliance to know the patient’s past allergic reactions to gadolinium contrast. If you are on hemodialysis or have kidney disease, tell your technologist.
Take off All Metal Objects Anything with metal should be removed or brought to the attention of a technologist before entering the MRI scan room.
• Jewellery Watches
• Glasses
• Hairpins
• Hearing aids Bras with underwire
• Dentures
• Medication patches (e.g., nicotine or pain patch)
• Clothing labeled as antimicrobial, antibacterial, or having “silver technology.”
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI may not be able to be done on people with other medically implanted devices because metal or electronic goods will react to the strong magnetic field. If you’re claustrophobic, tell your doctor and MRI technologist
During the MRI scan
MRI scanners are open-ended cylinders. In the scanner, you’ll lie on a motorized bed. Head-first or feet-first, depending on the body area being scanned. A frame may be placed over the head or chest for scanning. This frame contains receivers that pick up your body’s scan signals, creating a better image. The MRI scanner’s computer is in a separate room to avoid its magnetic field. The radiographer will also be in a separate room. The radiographer keeps visual and vocal contact with the patient during the scan.
During your scan, a friend or family member may accompany you. Usually, parents can accompany children. Keep the scanned body part motionless until the radiographer advises you to relax to avoid blurry images. A single scan can take seconds to minutes. Short scans may require holding your breath. Depending on the area scanned and the number of photographs captured, the process takes 15 to 90 minutes. During the procedure, the MRI scanner taps loudly. This is the scanner coils’ on/off switch. Wear earplugs or headphones.
After an MRI
After the MRI scan, you can resume normal activities. If you’ve been sedated, a friend or relative must drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours. After taking a sedative, it’s unsafe to drive, handle heavy machinery, or drink alcohol. Your MRI scan must be interpreted by a radiologist and perhaps additional professionals. This implies scan findings won’t be immediate. The radiologist who performed the scan will review the results with the doctor and share them with you. Unless they’re urgent, MRI results take a week or two.
Patient Safety
Let us know if you have allergies, major health concerns, or recent surgeries.
Please declare if you carry metal implants, medical/electronic gadgets, or are pregnant.