Mri (Magnetic Resonance) Imaging

What Is MRI (Magnetic Resonance)? In Which Cases Is MRI Performed?

Magnetic resonance, also known as MR, is an imaging method that produces images without using radiation. Because it obtains high-resolution images, especially in soft tissues, using magnetic waves generated from magnets, it stands out in the diagnosis of many conditions.

In this article, you can find answers to all the questions you may have, such as what should be considered during an MRI scan, whether MRI (MR) contains radiation, and why contrast-enhanced MRI is performed.

In the Radiology Department of Daviva Health Group, a 1.5 Tesla MRI with high resolution and fast scan capability is used.

What Is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

It is an imaging method that uses a magnetic field instead of X-rays to create detailed images of organs and tissues. With MRI, almost every internal structure in the body can be visualized.

It is known as a completely safe imaging method because it does not require any incision during the procedure and does not use radiation for imaging.

What Are the Types of MRI? In Which Cases Is MRI Used?

Magnetic Resonance (MRI) imaging can be used to diagnose many different conditions.

Neurological MRI

It is performed to create detailed images of the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues.

• Neurological MRI is the first-choice imaging method for determining the cause in complaints such as inability to move any part of the body, especially the arms and legs
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Hearing problems
• Speech problems
• Seizures
• Vision problems

Neurological MRI is used in the diagnosis of many conditions.

• Brain hemorrhage or cerebral aneurysm
• Brain tumors
• Stroke
• Dementia
• Epilepsy
• Fluid buildup in the brain (hydrocephalus)
• Pituitary gland problems
• Migraine and headaches
• Multiple sclerosis
• Spinal cord tumors
• Herniated disc in the lower back and neck

Musculoskeletal MRI

It is used to create high-resolution images of soft tissues, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and muscles.

Musculoskeletal MRI can be used in the diagnosis of the following conditions:

• Joint disorders such as degenerative arthritis
• Evaluation of meniscus, ligament and tendon tears, rotator cuff, or labrum
• Evaluation of the spinal cord after trauma
• Conditions caused by repetitive strain, vibration, or severe impact such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tennis elbow
• Inflammation of the bone and bone marrow such as osteomyelitis
• Pain or swelling in the tissues of joints and limbs
• Degenerative joint diseases
• Inflammation of soft tissues such as bursitis and tendinosis
• Bone and bone marrow tumors

Abdominal MRI

It is used to create detailed, cross-sectional images of abdominal organs.

• Detecting cirrhosis and fatty liver
• MRI imaging of pancreatic diseases
• Imaging tumors in the liver and pancreas
• Detecting kidney tumors
• To investigate unexplained severe abdominal pain or unexpected weight loss
• To evaluate blood flow and blood vessels in the abdomen
• Diagnosing stones in the bile ducts or inflammatory bowel diseases
• Abdominal MRI may be performed before surgery to evaluate organs or blood vessels.

How Is MRI Performed?

• Before Magnetic Resonance (MRI), you may eat and drink and take your regular medications unless told otherwise.
• Since the MRI machine creates a magnetic field, you must remove metal accessories such as jewelry, hair clips, glasses, watches, and hearing aids before the scan.
• The MRI machine resembles a long, narrow tube open at both ends. You will lie on a movable table that slides into the center of the machine.
• The radiology technician will monitor you from another room and communicate with you through a microphone.
• People with claustrophobia should inform their doctor or radiologist. In such cases, sedative medication may be used.
• During the MRI scan, the inner part of the magnet produces repeated knocking, banging, and other noises. The scan is completely painless. Only the noises may be disturbing. For this reason, you can ask the radiologist for headphones.
• During the MRI scan, the radiologist may ask you to remain still or briefly hold your breath.
• After the MRI scan, you can immediately return to your social life.

What Is Contrast-Enhanced MRI and How Is It Performed?

• In some cases, contrast-enhanced MRI may be performed to obtain clearer images of tumors, vascular diseases, or inflammatory conditions.
• In this case, an intravenous line must be placed before the MRI. A contrast agent is administered to the patient through the vein before or during the MRI scan.
• The contrast agent may leave a slight metallic taste in the mouth. However, this sensation is very short-lived.
• The other steps of the procedure are the same as in non-contrast MRI scans.
• Drinking plenty of water after contrast-enhanced MRI will help the contrast agent leave the body more quickly.

What Are the Advantages of MRI?

• The most important advantage of Magnetic Resonance (MRI) imaging is that it does not contain radiation. Since it obtains images through magnetic waves, it can be used safely in children and pregnant women (second/third trimester).
• Because it provides high-resolution images in soft tissues such as tumors, ligament tears, or herniated discs, it more clearly distinguishes between normal and abnormal tissues.
• It is the preferred method for detecting abnormalities such as early-stage cancer, neurological disorders, and soft tissue injuries.

Who Cannot Undergo MRI? What Are the Risks?

MRI is generally a safe radiological imaging method. However, because it emits a strong magnetic field, people with metal implants may not be able to undergo it.

• MRI may be risky for people with older pacemakers. Pacemakers may be affected by the magnetic field emitted by MRI, causing malfunction and even internal injuries in the patient.
• MRI may also not be recommended for people with cochlear implants, insulin pumps, and certain aneurysm clips. The patient should definitely consult their doctor about this.
• Some types of intrauterine contraceptive devices, especially those containing copper, may also be risky for MRI.
• Although MRI does not emit radiation, it is not recommended during the first 3 months of pregnancy.
• People with severe claustrophobia may be adversely affected by MRI scans. However, in such cases, scans can be performed using sedative medication.
• For severely obese patients, it is important that the MRI bore is suitable.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MRI

What Is the Difference Between a 1.5 Tesla MRI and Other Devices?

• In Magnetic Resonance (MRI) devices, the Tesla value indicates the strength of the magnetic field the device has.
• Because a 1.5 Tesla MRI produces a high magnetic signal, it can visualize tissues much more clearly.
• A 1.5 Tesla MRI acquires images quickly. This makes the scan time shorter.
• Due to the clear images it provides in brain, spine, soft tissue, and vascular imaging, the 1.5 Tesla MRI is highly successful.
• In addition to these advantages, the MRI tunnel of a 1.5 Tesla device is narrower than that of lower-Tesla devices. Lower-Tesla devices may be more suitable for overweight individuals.
• Because the magnetic field strength of a 1.5 Tesla MRI is high, image distortion may occur in people with platinum or metal in their body. This distortion is less common with lower-Tesla devices.

Does MRI Contain Radiation, and Is It Harmful to the Body?

MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves rather than X-rays as an imaging method. Therefore, MRI does not contain radiation. It is a highly safe imaging method for both adults and children. It is not recommended for pregnant women during the first 3 months of pregnancy. However, it can be used safely during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. The patient should consult their doctor about this.

How Long Does an MRI Scan Take?

The duration of an MRI scan;

• The body part to be imaged
• The number of images required
• Whether contrast material will be used

Simple MRI scans take only 15-30 minutes, while complex imaging may take more than an hour.

Why Is Contrast-Enhanced MRI Performed and Does It Have Side Effects?

Contrast-enhanced MRI is performed to increase the clarity and detail of the images obtained. It allows healthy tissues to be better distinguished from abnormal tissues such as tumors, inflammation, or infection. The contrast agent, usually gadolinium, is injected intravenously into the patient. The contrast-enhanced parts appear brighter in the images.

The contrast agent used does not contain radiation. The most common side effect is allergic reactions after the scan. Drinking plenty of water is important to help the contrast agent be eliminated from the body quickly.

Contrast-enhanced MRI may be used more often in the following cases;

• Contrast-enhanced MRI may be performed to detect early-stage, small tumors. It can also help determine whether tumors are benign or malignant.
• In the follow-up of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), contrast-enhanced MRI can determine whether there are new lesions. Contrast-enhanced MRI is important in monitoring MS progression.
• Contrast agent is used in MRI to visualize blood vessels in order to detect aneurysms, blockages, or thromboses.
• It makes inflammatory areas such as abscesses or infections in the brain, spine, or soft tissues more visible.
• It helps check how well a tumor responds to chemotherapy or radiotherapy.