Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is the most modern and dynamically developing imaging technique using the phenomenon of different behaviour of chemical molecules building the tissues under the influence of strong magnetic field.

The advantage of MRI over other diagnostic methods is the excellent possibility of imaging soft tissues and lesions within them (also blood vessels) and the possibility of obtaining images of layers of individual body parts in any selected plane. This technique is particularly useful in the diagnostics of cerebral and spinal diseases (it enables direct visualisation of spinal disc herniation and the spinal cord) and all the structures forming the joints.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is also an excellent supplementary examination (after the performance of X-ray, ultrasound and computed tomography scans) in certain diseases of chest, abdominal or lesser pelvic organs. The performance of second phase of the examination, after the intravenous contrast agent administration, is ordered by a radiologist. The contrast agent used in MRI is completely safe for the patient. Its administration is necessary for the posing of unambiguous diagnosis.

The additional advantage of Magnetic Resonance Imaging is the extremely small adverse effect of magnetic radiation as compared with X-rays.

Necessary additional examinations
• As determined by the attending physician.

Preparation for the examination
• Fasting status is not necessary.
• For the trunk examination, a two-piece outfit is recommended, devoid of any metal elements. Any jewellery or removable bridge should be taken out. No external hearing aids, keys, magnetic cards or mobile phones are allowed in the MRI examination room.
• Patients suffering from claustrophobia (fear of staying in small, confined spaces) may take mild sedatives to reduce anxiety.

Drugs
• On the day of examination, all the routinely administered drugs should be taken.

Necessary information for the physician
• The patient should provide the documentation of previous imaging examinations and medical history reports from the hospital.
• The physician should be informed of any allergy to contrast agents or other allergies and renal disorders (particularly patients with the creatinine clearance (GFR) below 30 ml/min) and acute inflammation.

The examination
• During the examination (lasting at least 15-20 min, with possible prolongation depending on the type of diagnosed pathology) the patient should remain immobile, breathe calmly and not very deeply.
• Occasionally, an intravenous contrast agent based on the chemical element, gadolinium, is administered during the examination. Contrast agents used in MRI diagnostics are different from iodine agents applied in computed tomography. The decision on the administration of intravenous contrast agent is made by a radiologist based on the recommendations from the attending physician and patient's status.

During the procedure
• Inform about sudden complaints.

Contraindications
• Contraindications against the examination are medical devices containing electronic elements (e.g. a pacemaker, cochlear implant, brainstem stimulator, insulin pump).
• An absolute contraindication against the examination are ferromagnetic metal filings (that can be magnetised) in the body - particularly in the eye.
• In the case of other metal elements in the patient body, information is required on when they have been implanted and of what alloy they are made. If insufficient information is provided, the technician/physician may refuse the performance of the examination for patient's safety reasons.
• The following do not constitute contraindications against the examination: fixed bridges and dental implants, fixed dental braces, orthopaedic stabilisers (plates and uniting wires, screws), artificial joints, intrauterine devices. It should, however, be borne in mind that the above elements may distort the MRI image and hinder its interpretation if they are located in the examination field.