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The Knowledge Zone

BENEFITS

  • MRI is a non-invasive imaging technique that does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation and is harmless to the body.

  • MR images of the soft-tissue structures of the body—such as the heart, brain, breast, prostate, liver and many other organs— are more likely to identify and accurately characterize diseases than other imaging methods. This detail makes MRI an invaluable tool in early diagnosis and evaluation of many abnormalities and illnesses.

  • MRI has proven valuable in diagnosing a broad range of conditions, including cancer, stroke, back pain and muscular and bone abnormalities.

  • MRI is able to create images in any orientation which can be useful for planning treatment and surgery.

  • MRI can be implemented with different imaging parameters to gather both anatomical and functional information which greatly aids in diagnosis.

  • MRI gives the most detailed images of internal soft tissue structures compared with all other imaging techniques.

  • MRI scans are conducted by MRI Trained Technologists and allow physicians to assess the biliary system noninvasively and without contrast injection.

  • The contrast material used in MRI exams is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based contrast materials used for conventional x-rays and CT scanning.

  • MRI provides a non-invasive alternative to x-ray angiography and CT for diagnosing problems of the heart and blood vessels.

RISKS

  • If sedation is used, there are risks of excessive sedation. However, the technologist and attending doctor will monitor your vital signs to minimize this risk.

  • Although the strong magnetic field is not harmful in itself, implanted medical devices that contain metal may malfunction or cause problems during an MRI exam.

  • Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is currently a recognized, but rare, complication of MRI caused by the injection of high doses of gadolinium-based contrast material in patients with very poor kidney function. Careful assessment of kidney function before considering a contrast injection minimizes the risk of this very complication.

  • There is a very slight risk of an allergic reaction if contrast material is injected. Such reactions are usually mild and easily controlled by medication. If you experience allergic symptoms, treatment prescribed by our radiologist will be available for immediate assistance.

  • Manufacturers of intravenous contrast indicate mothers should not breastfeed their babies for 24-48 hours after contrast medium is given. However, both the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the European Society of Urogenital Radiology note that the available data suggest that it is safe to continue breastfeeding after receiving intravenous contrast.  

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