MRI examination
What is an MR scan?
From MRI examination (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a very precise and reliable imaging test that helps to make an accurate diagnosis and thus determine the optimal treatment. It uses a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to produce detailed images of parts of the body. It is also known as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
What are the benefits of an MR scan?
MR scans (as opposed to X-rays and CT scans, which are also imaging) do not involve any radiation exposure. There are no known adverse effects, so it can be done several times in a row without any problems. It can also be used for children and pregnant women in the second trimester, but is only performed on the advice of a specialist in pregnancy.
It's a highly accurate and reliable procedure that provides a detailed picture of the body, so it's a great help in the early detection of certain lesions. It can be used to examine a wide range of organs, including joints, spine and tendons.
The MR scan also allows very detailed moving images to be taken. Dynamic image acquisition from a given area also allows the different phases of movement to be observed. It also allows 3D imaging, any part of the body can be imaged in any direction in space.
How does the MR scan work?
Please arrive 10-15 minutes early so that the MRI examination before filling in the registration form. The test itself is completely painless. You will lie down on the examination bed and the staff will help you to adjust your body position for the test, which is most often supine. The examination bed will lift you into the cylindrical MR machine. The scan takes about 20 to 30 minutes, during which you need to remain still to get accurate images of the parts of the body being examined. The examination is made more comfortable with mood lighting and, if you prefer, music. If our colleagues notice other abnormalities during the examination, they can take additional measurements. This can make the examination take longer, but you do not need to schedule another appointment to have these additional tests done. After the examination, you will receive a CD with the images of the MRI scan and the specialist's evaluation will be sent to you by email.
MR scan for patients with claustrophobia
Claustrophobia is the anxiety of being in a confined space. Patients with claustrophobia may find it uncomfortable to lie still in the cylindrical part of the machine during the MRI scan. Feel free to let our colleagues know if you are worried about this. They will do their best to make you as comfortable as possible. For some examinations, you can also listen to pleasant music during the examination to distract you from the machine's noise and to ease your anxiety. Our colleagues will give you a “panic button” to give you a signal at any time during the test. You can also bring a companion with you to the scan, if a loved one is nearby, this will also help to relieve anxiety.
In which cases is an MR scan recommended?
From MRI examination plays a prominent role in musculoskeletal disorders. MR of the joints is excellent for the detection and evaluation of the smallest cartilage lesions, for the isolation of ligament and tendon injuries or inflammatory changes, for the diagnosis and evaluation of rheumatic and other joint diseases. This type of imaging can also be used to detect arthrosis (joint wear) and to clarify the joint in the case of cancer.
Cervical spine tests are performed, for example, if there is pain in the neck and shoulder girdle area or if there is pain or numbness in the upper limbs.
Back spine MRI can be used to clarify the cause of back pain and stabbing or dull pain radiating to the ribs.
The lumbar spine is usually ordered by doctors in cases of lower back pain, bruising, thigh pain, pain radiating to the lower limbs or numbness.
An MRI scan of the pelvis provides information about the cause of pelvic and back pain.
Joint examinations identify the causes of joint pain, muscle, ligament and cartilage injuries. For example, cartilage damage and tears in the cruciate ligaments or collateral ligaments are common problems in the knee. In the ankle, joint instability is a common complaint. In the elbow, injuries to the glenohumeral ligament and the long biceps tendon are often investigated, as well as inflammation of the soft tissues. In the hand, ligament damage is common. In hip and shoulder complaints, MR is also often ordered by orthopaedic and rheumatology doctors to make the most accurate diagnosis.
Contraindications to the test
In case of pregnancy, the test should only be performed on the advice of a specialist.
If you have metal implants in your body, be sure to check with the specialist before the test. Examples of contra-indications to the test include pacemakers, aneurysm clips, drug delivery devices, orthopaedic metal implants and prosthetic joints.
In the case of a contrast agent test, please let us know if you have experienced any adverse reactions after contrast agent administration and we will treat any allergic reaction with appropriate medical advice
How to register for the test?
Patients typically request an MR scan on the recommendation of a specialist. We also see patients without a referral within 24 hours at SMART Diagnostics.
You can even have an immediate MRI scan after the specialist examination!
Register now by calling +36-1-44-33-433!
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