MRI is a useful and widely used imaging technique. It makes use of a strong magnetic field created by powerful magnets alongwith radiofrequency waves to deliver highly detailed images of the inside of the body. It does not use X-rays unlike the CT scan. It helps the healthcare provider to see bones and soft tissues such as muscle, fat and internal organs.

This imaging modality allows doctors to view body parts such as:

• Heart
• Blood vessels
• Breasts
• The liver, the womb and prostate gland
• Spinal cord and brain
• Bones and joints

How does it work?

The MRI scanner has three parts: main magnet, gradient coils and radiofrequency (RF) coils. The main magnet is superconductive and produces a high-intensity magnetic field. Shape-wise, the scanner looks like a large cylindrical device. The magnetic field created displaces the atoms to shift from their initial positions which when return to their original position, send radio signals. These signals are interpreted by a computer which then converts them into images.

What happens during the MRI scan test?

Before the examination, a radiographer will explain the whole procedure to you. You may be required to fill out a questionnaire, and your relevant queries will be answered. Because of safety reasons and your comfort, the patient will be asked to wear a hospital gown. During the scan, your belongings such as jewelry, body piercings, metallic items etc. will be kept in a secure facility.

You should inform the MRI technician if you have:

• Surgical staples, clips, plates, pins, and screws

• Implanted port, an infusion catheter, an intrauterine device (IUD), any metal plates, clips, pins, screws, or surgical staples, a prosthetic hip, or any implanted metal object in your body

• Tooth fillings or braces

• Heart pacemaker

Once inside the scan room, you’ll be asked to lie on the MRI scanner table. The scanner is open at both ends. This table moves the patient into the centre of the scanner. Depending on which part of the body is being scanned, you’ll be moved into the scanner either head first or feet first. The scan doesn’t cause you any pain, but for the procedure it is important to remain as still as possible. This is to prevent any blurring of the images. The radiographer can see you throughout the examination. But if you need any help at any time, you just need to squeeze the buzzer given to you.

In some cases, a small injection of contrast agent is given to obtain clearer pictures. The whole procedure can take up to 2 hours but most patients are on the scanner for about 45 minutes.

If you live in Delhi-NCR, do an online search with the keywords MRI scan near me to know the best diagnostic facilities in your vicinity.

During the scan:

The scan, on average, gets completed within 15 to 90 minutes, depending on how many images need to be taken.

Contrast MRI

To get more clarity in images (tumours, certain tissues, inflammation and blood vessels), a contrast agent, typically gadolinium, may be used. It only occurs once your doctor orders and approves it. After the completion of the exam, either the body absorbs the contrast material or it gets eliminated through urine. It needs to be remembered that not every MRI needs a contrast agent.

Disclaimer: For personalised advice and additional information, remember to consult your physician or a qualified healthcare professional.