| 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 some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging
methods.
Why is it 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 is it 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.
CPatient 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 communicate 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.
What do I do if I need this ?
You can directly call the MRI section or reception of the department
for the appointment & special instructions.
Preparation for the services
- You should directly contact the CT scan room or the reception of the
department of radiodiagnosis & imaging for the appointment.
- Medications may be taken as usual.
- For the MR angiography 2 hours fasting is required.
Tarrif
As per rate list of EHIRC
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