Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the newest and most high-tech methods of instrumental examination of the human body. Thanks to it, specialists have the opportunity to thoroughly examine and then obtain a three-dimensional image of internal organs. Therefore, today it is the most informative diagnostic method, allowing for a quick diagnosis and prompt prescription of the necessary treatment.
Principle of Tomograph Operation
The research method is based on the phenomenon of nuclear magnetic resonance. When exposed to a strong magnetic field, atomic nuclei resonate in response to the excitation received, and the device measures this electromagnetic response and visualizes it. In the human body, the nuclei of hydrogen atoms are resonant.
Exposure to a magnetic field is absolutely safe, unlike, for example, X-ray radiation, which carries a radiation load.
Indications for MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging can visualize both soft tissues and bone structures, so it can be used for almost any known medical pathology. We have tried to highlight the most common indications for this type of examination:
- Pain of various nature, localization, and unclear genesis.
- Various brain diseases and assessment of the condition of its vessels.
- Pathology of the spinal cord and spine.
- Injuries and their consequences.
- Benign and malignant neoplasms, as well as the presence of metastases or suspicion of them.
- Enlarged lymph nodes.
- Examination of joints and ligaments.
- Diseases of the abdominal and pelvic organs.
- Postoperative condition monitoring.
Contraindications for MRI
This study has a fairly small list of restrictions.
Absolute contraindications include the presence of a pacemaker, as well as metallic implants near the eyes and brain, middle ear implants, and ferromagnetic Ilizarov devices.
The rest are relative restrictions, meaning the doctor decides on the advisability of the examination during the examination. These include:
- Presence of metallic foreign bodies in the body as a result of an accident. These can be fragments, shavings, or shot.
- Presence of prosthetic heart valves and hemostatic clips.
- Insulin pumps.
- History of epilepsy, seizures, or sudden fainting.
- Pregnancy, mainly in its first trimester.
- Presence of tattoos or permanent makeup (some inks may contain metal).
- Serious mental disorders.
- Extremely severe condition, including decompensated heart failure.
When contrast-enhanced examination is required, the list of contraindications is supplemented by items such as anemia, chronic renal intolerance, allergic reactions, and pregnancy at any stage (it has been proven that the contrast used penetrates the placenta, and its effect on fetal development has not been sufficiently studied).
How is the examination performed?
Undergoing an MRI does not require special preparation at home.
Immediately before the scan, you will need to remove all metal objects, and also be sure to leave your mobile phone and keys in the changing room. If you use a hearing aid, you will also need to remove it.
Since the device produces rhythmic loud noise during the examination, special ear protection (earplugs or headphones) may be required.
During the tomography, try not to move and breathe calmly. If you suffer from claustrophobia attacks, be sure to inform your doctor before the scan begins. You should also find out in advance how you can contact the staff during the procedure.
On average, the scan takes 20-30 minutes, but in some cases, it can last up to 60 minutes. For example, scanning of the abdominal organs takes significantly longer than a brain examination.
Thus, the magnetic resonance imaging method has a number of advantages:
- Absence of ionizing radiation. The magnetic field is absolutely safe for the organs and tissues of the human body. The patient can undergo MRI several times without harm to health.
- Obtaining a three-dimensional image of the examined area. Allows evaluation of the condition of organs and tissues in various sections and determination of the exact dimensions and localization of pathological areas.
- Non-invasiveness. Does not require instrumental intervention to assess the condition of internal organs. As a result, MRI is an absolutely painless and non-traumatic examination method.
- Versatility. The method can be used to diagnose diseases of any organs and systems of the human body.
MRI at St. Luke’s Clinic
Our clinic has a modern magnetic resonance imager with extensive functionality. The examination and subsequent interpretation of its results are carried out only by qualified and specially trained specialists.
You will receive a written conclusion, as well as a digital recording of the entire study, within 24 hours.
On the same day, you can make an appointment with a specialist for a consultation on the results of the examination and the prescription of the necessary treatment.