Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)


An MRI scan is an imaging scan that uses large powerful magnet and radio waves to create pictures of the body. The MRI does doesn't make use of ionizing radiation.

Images produced are stored in a computer and used for diagnosis. The MRI produces dozens of images in slices outlining detailed information about the body.

Types of MRI Scan
  • Brain MRI
  • Spine MRI
  • Abdominal MRI
  • Chest MRI
  • Pelvic MRI
  • MRI Angiography
  • MRI Venography
How is MRI carried out?

Patients are required to fill a consent form containing most notably; the patient should be free of any metallic object inside of the body.

They would be required to wear a hospital gown, free of zips and metallic clips.

Patient lies on a narrow table, which slides into the large gantry (The large magnet).

Some exams may require injecting the patient with a contrast dye (to aid visualizing tumour and a clearer view). The dye will be given through the cubital vein in the arm of the  Patient.

Coils are placed around the areas to be studied. They help send and receive the radio waves, and improve the quality of the images output.

While the MRI is ongoing, the radiographer will watch you from another room. The test spans about 30 to 60 minutes, but in some cases may take longer.

Patient preparation for the test

Patient is asked not to eat or drink anything for 4 to 6 hours before the exam.

Patients with claustrophobia  may be given a sedative to help feel sleepy and less anxious.

Patients should bring to notice into the consent form if the following has been carried out on them:

  • Heart pacemaker
  • Cochlear implants
  • Kidney disease or dialysis
  • Artificial joints
  • Artificial heart valves
  • Brain aneurysm clips
  • Vascular Stents
  • If they've worked with sheet metal in the past.

The need for an MRI scan

MRI presents with a more detailed diagnosis of the body

MRI done with contrast is delivered into the body may provide better information about blood vessels.

The MRI Angiography produces a 3-dimensional image of the blood vessels.

Dangers of MRI scan may include:

Although MRI does not make use of ionizing radiation thus, no side effects from the magnetic fields and radio waves have ever been reported.

Gadolinium is the most common type of contrast used as it is very safe. 

Allergic reactions can occur but on very rare occasions. 

This Contrast be of negative impact to people with kidney problems who are on dialysis. (Patients are recommended to state their health history before the scan in a consent form).

The strong magnetic fields produced during an MRI scan can cause heart pacemakers and other implants not to function well. 


CAUSES OF SUNKEN EYES IN VEGANS AND SOLUTION

These magnets can also cause a piece of metallic object inside the body to move or shift. Still, these questions are contained in the consent form before the exam.