MRI Procedure and Preparation

This presentation informs the procedure of MRI scan.It throws light upon the factors which are important before and after the scan.It also discusses the contraindications before and after the mri scan and which things should be avoided before the scan.

1. MRI PROCEDURE Introduction

2. WHAT IS MRI? A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a painless procedure that lasts 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the size of the area being scanned and the number of images being taken. MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. MRI does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays). Detailed MR images allow physicians to evaluate various parts of the body and determine the presence of certain diseases. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, transmitted electronically, printed or copied to a CD. MRI PROCEDURE

3. PREPARATION FOR PROCEDURE BEFORE SCAN Patient may be asked to wear a gown during the exam or may be allowed to wear own clothing if it is loose-fitting and has no metal fasteners. Contrast Dye Some MRI examinations may require to receive an injection of contrast material into the bloodstream. It's possible for contrast dye to cause tissue and organ damage in people with severe  kidney disease . If patient have a history of kidney disease, he should give a  blood test  to determine how well the kidneys are functioning and whether it's safe to proceed with the scan. MRI PROCEDURE

4. Food and Drink T he patient may be asked not to eat an hour before scan.The may be asked not to drink tea,alcohol,coffee,soft drinks containing caffeine(cola)for at least two hours before the scan. Smoking The patient should be asked not to smoke two hours before as it can affect the blood flow. MRI PROCEDURE

5. If a contrast material will be used in the MRI exam, a physician, nurse or technologist will insert an intravenous (IV) catheter, also known as an IV line, into a vein in hand or arm. A saline solution may be used to inject the contrast material. The solution will drip through the IV to prevent blockage of the IV catheter until the contrast material is injected. If a contrast material is used during the examination, it will be injected into the intravenous line (IV) after an initial series of scans. Additional series of images will be taken during or following the injection. The intravenous needle may cause some discomfort when it is inserted and may be some bruising. There is also a very small chance of irritation of skin at the site of the IV tube insertion. Some patients may sense a temporary metallic taste in their mouth after the contrast injection. MRI PROCEDURE

6. An MRI scan is a painless procedure, so  anaesthesia (painkilling medication)  isn't usually required.  General anaesthetic  is often used when young children and babies have an MRI scan. This is because it's very important to stay still during the scan, which young children and babies are often unable to do when they're awake. If patient have claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces) or anxiety, Physician should give a prescription for a mild sedative prior to scheduled examination. J ewelry and other accessories should be left at home if possible, or removed prior to the MRI scan. Because they can interfere with the magnetic field of the MRI unit, metal and electronic items are not allowed in the exam room. These items include: jewelry, watches, credit cards and hearing aids, all of which can be damaged pins, hairpins, metal zippers and similar metallic items, which can distort MRI images removable dental work pens, pocket knives and eyeglasses body piercings. MRI PROCEDURE

7. DURING THE SCAN An MRI scanner is a short cylinder that's open at both ends. Patient will lie on a motorized bed that's moved inside the scanner. He will enter the scanner either head first  or feet first, depending on the part of the body being scanned . In some cases, a frame may be placed over the body part being scanned, such as the head or chest. This frame contains receivers that pick up the signals sent out by the body during the scan and it can help to create a better-quality image. A computer is used to operate the MRI scanner, which is located in a different room to keep it away from the magnetic field generated by the scanner. The radiographer operates the computer, so they'll also be in a separate room. However , will be able to talk to them, usually through an intercom MRI PROCEDURE

8. Children will be given appropriately sized earplugs or headphones during the exam. The MRI scanner will make loud tapping noises at certain times during the procedure. This is the electric current in the scanner coils being turned on and off. MRI scanners are air-conditioned and well-lit. Music may be played through the headphones to help patient pass the time. A single scan may take from a few seconds to three or four minutes. Patient may be asked to hold breath during short scans. Depending on the size of the area being scanned and how many images are taken, the whole procedure will take 15 to 90 minutes . Patient should move out of scanner after the scan is over. MRI PROCEDURE

9. AFTER THE SCAN Patient may be asked to wait while the radiographer checks the quality of the pictures. In some cases, he may be asked to get back into the MRI scanner so that more pictures can be taken. If the pictures are satisfactory, he can get dressed and go home. An MRI scan is usually carried out as an outpatient procedure. This means patient won't need to stay in hospital overnight. After the scan, he can resume normal activities immediately. If he had sedative before the scan it will not be safe for him to drive or drink alcohol for 24 after having scan. MRI scan needs to be studied by a radiologist (a doctor trained in interpreting scans and X-rays) and possibly discussed with other specialists. MRI PROCEDURE

10. THANK YOU! MRI:The Procedure