MRI examination

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is a modern imaging technique. It gives an image of the body's condition. It shows the changed behaviour of the fluid spaces in the body and tissues in a magnetic field. In essence, it takes images of areas of the human body in several directions. This gives a wealth of information about the body part being examined, which greatly helps the doctor to pinpoint the disease and plan the appropriate treatment. The importance of magnetic resonance imaging in radiological imaging diagnostics is that it provides an accurate snapshot of the organs and tissues within the human body, and its usefulness and importance in patient care is extraordinary and it is an important diagnostic tool. The device does not use X-rays in its operation and uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce anatomical images with a very high level of detail, which makes it repeatable as often as necessary and safe for use in young children. The scan uses high frequency radio waves, which would cause energy changes in the human body, which are converted by a high performance computer into a detailed three-dimensional image.

When is an MRI scan necessary/recommended?

MRI is an excellent tool for many applications as it can provide a very precise picture of the state of the body and its parts. MRI can be used to diagnose a variety of diseases, including neurological disorders (epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke), injuries (sprains, strains, fractures), inflammations, metabolic disorders, vascular diseases, spinal disorders and developmental disorders. MRI is also recommended for various chest and abdominal organs. It also gives an accurate picture when examining the musculoskeletal system. MRI is an excellent diagnostic tool, as in many cases it can show lesions long before they can be detected by X-ray or ultrasound. It is excellent for detecting abnormal lesions. An MR scan allows you to get confirmation of lesions in an area as soon as possible, without long waiting times and without referral. The immediate release of findings makes it even quicker to start any necessary treatment.

How to prepare for the test?

As MRI is completely painless, it requires no special preparation and is also ideal for young children. It is always advisable to come to the examination on an empty stomach. Food should not be eaten for 6 hours before the contrast scan. This way, if it is found during the test that contrast is still necessary, there is no need to repeat the test on an empty stomach at a later time. The contrast test must be preceded by a creatinine test, which requires a laboratory test. You should wear comfortable clothing to the examination. It is essential that no metal objects and electrical equipment are allowed into the test unit. This includes jewellery, including body jewellery, hearing aids, dentures and any object that carries an electric current or contains magnetic parts.

What happens during the test?

Before the test a detailed information and consent form on general health will be completed. In the case of a contrast material test, a rapid creatinine test will be performed. The patient is then placed in a supine position in the MR machine. For certain examinations, the prone position is essential. On average, the examination of a region takes 20-40 minutes. Our patients are given a panic button to press at any time during the examination to communicate with our staff. As the examination is carried out in a confined space it is advisable to keep your eyes closed to avoid feeling claustrophobic. The instructions given during the examination must be followed in all cases. The MRI machine emits a loud noise during the scan, which is reduced by ear protection. Our colleague will signal the end of the examination. The patient can then move from the position in which he/she was taken.

When is it necessary to give contrast material?

The contrast material used in an MRI scan is a drug-like compound that is detected by the MRI machine. The contrast material is injected into the vein and administered using an injector. The amount of contrast material is determined per kilogram of body weight, so that the body is not unnecessarily burdened. Contrast media are needed when it is important to see the condition of soft tissues and blood vessels. A contrast material test is usually recommended by the doctor when more or more precise information is needed about the size, location or type of lesion. Some MRI scans can of course be done without contrast.

Are there any side effects or risks?

As the MRI scan works on the magnetic principle and does not involve any radiation exposure, there are no harmful side effects and no adverse effects on the body. Only the contrast medium can cause an allergic reaction in very rare cases, which is very well controlled. Our colleagues are fully trained to deal with possible allergic reactions.

When can the test not be performed?

The MRI machine used at Margit Medical Center is not able to examine patients over 200 kg. An exclusion reason for an MRI scan is if the patient has a pacemaker, as in this case a life-threatening risk may occur. Also MRI scans cannot be performed on hearing aids, vascular chips and artificial heart valves. For surgically implanted metals, since 2000 only metals that can be safely used for MRI scanning have been used. For metals inserted before this date, prior consultation is essential to ensure that the scan is possible.

How long does the examination take?

An MRI scan usually takes between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the area to be scanned. It is important that the patient remains still during this time. You will be able to communicate with the staff through a loudspeaker throughout the scan.

When can I expect the results?

The CD with the recordings is given to the patient immediately after the examination. It usually takes 3-5 working days for the results to be obtained, as they are analysed by a radiologist. However at Margit Medical Center it is possible to receive the results immediately. It is important to make this known before the examination so that the results can be available within 24 hours.

MRI scans performed at the Margit Medical Center:

• Skull MRI
• Facial skull MRI
• Inner ear targeted MRI
• Lung MRI
• Total spine MRI
• Abdominal MRI
• Pelvic MRI
• Cervical soft tissue MRI
• Orbital targeted MRI
• Sella targeted MRI
• Liver specific contrast MRI

Why Margit Medical Center?

• modern equipment
• reliable, accurate results
• excellent radiologists
• qualified, empathetic staff
• long opening hours
• MRI examination in private practice
• same day MRI examination appointment, no long waiting time
• even immediate results
• no need for referral

If you have any other questions about the MRI examination. Please feel free to contact our staff.

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