Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

What is magnetic resonance imaging?

It is a highly precise diagnostic method based on the interaction of a magnetic field with hydrogen atoms that are present in a human body. Thanks to such interaction, this method helps to obtain a layered image of the internal organs, to identify the presence and nature of the pathology and to make a diagnosis.

The scan helps to assess the condition of ligaments, cartilages, intervertebral disks, brain, some soft tissues, and internal organs – the structures that consist largely of fluid. This method is rarely used to scan bones, lungs, the intestine, and stomach since they contain almost no water.

MRI proves very effective in diagnosing tumors and inflammations, disorders of the central nervous system, abdominal and lesser pelvic organs, brain, and blood vessels.

This method helps to obtain not only the image of the structure of a tissue, but also the data on how it functions, e.g., brain activity, blood flow velocity, and cerebrospinal fluid velocity.

This method is safe, does not produce any radiation, and is actively used in medical practice.

Where is it used?

• Brain (including the vascular system).
• Eye socket and optic nerves.
• Temporomandibular area.
• Paranasal sinuses.
• Thyroid gland.
• Arteries and veins.
• Spine and joints.
• Abdominal cavity and retroperitoneal space.
• Lesser pelvic organs and external reproductive organs.
• Soft tissues.
• Peripheral nervous system.

About the procedure

What to expect during the procedure?

MRI is not done at Kivach Clinic. Should a patient need an MRI scan, he/she will be transported to a partner medical institution.

The patient wears comfortable clothes without any metal parts. Before the procedure, the patient removes all metal objects (watches, bracelets, jewelry, etc.).

MRI scanner is located in a separate room. The patient lays down on the table, which moves hin/her into the scanner. There are enough light and air inside the scanner.

Before the procedure, the patient receives recommendations on how to give a signal, tell the doctor if he/she feels uncomfortable, etc.).

The procedure is absolutely safe if the patient follows the given instructions. It does not cause any physical sensation. If it is hard for the patient to remain still because of the pain, or he/she has claustrophobia, it is necessary to inform the doctor about this in advance.

The MRI scanner produces a certain sound while it is operating, which is muted with the help of earphones or earplugs. The scanner provides a layered image of organs and tissues, which is seen on a doctor's monitor. The results of the scan will be sent to Kivach Clinic to be reviewed by an attending physician.

Contraindications

• Metal objects in the body (prostheses, fragments), pacemaker, artificial heart valves, spinal cord stimulators, ferromagnetic clamps, cochlear implants, Ilizarov apparatus made of magnetic materials, etc.
• Tattoos made with a dye that contains metallic compounds.
• Mental disorders, schizophrenia.
• Severe decompensated diseases.
• Severe pain that makes it impossible for the patient to remain still.
• The first trimester of pregnancy.
• Age under 6.

Question-answer

1. Is the scan safe?

2. The procedure is absolutely safe if the patient follows the instructions provided by the medical staff. The magnetic field generated during the scan does not have a negative effect on the patient's health. There is no radiation during an MRI.

3. Is the scan painful?

4. The scan is painless. The MRI scanner produces a certain sound while it is operating, which is muted with the help of earphones or earplugs. If it is hard for the patient to remain still because of the pain, or he/she has claustrophobia, it is necessary to inform the doctor about this in advance.

5. Are complications possible?

6. There are no complications.

7. How to prepare for the scan?

8. It is necessary to remove all metal objects.