MRI Scan: Understanding Procedure, Safety, and Clinical Applications

What is an MRI Scan?

MRI is a non-invasive imaging procedure that provides accurate images of almost all internal structures of the human body. MRI scanners produce high-quality images using a large magnet and radio waves. There is no emission of non-ionising radiation during an MRI examination, unlike in digital X-ray procedures.

Let’s now explore the technical aspects of an MRI procedure in simple language to understand how it works.

How Does an MRI Scan Work?

An MRI machine is a large, cylindrical device that creates a strong magnetic field around patients and sends radio waves from a scanner. However, in some cases, an MRI machine resembles a narrow structure, while others have a more open shape.

Here’s a comprehensive outlook on how the MRI machine works:

• The strong magnetic field that the MRI scanner creates causes the atoms in your body to align in the same direction.
• Radio waves emitted by the MRI machine move the atoms from their original positions. Upon stopping the radio waves, the atoms revert to their original position, emitting radio signals.
• A computer receives the signal and converts the raw data into an image of the part of the body examined.

Note: MRI may be an alternative to computed tomography (CT) for studying organs or soft tissues. MRI scans are effective in differentiating between the types of soft tissues.

Before preparing for an MRI scan, let’s explore some of the conditions by which you can determine when to undergo an MRI examination.

When Do You Need an MRI Scan

MRI scans are a standard diagnostic procedure used by healthcare professionals to monitor the treatment of several critical conditions. MRI types differ according to the variation of diseases and the part of the body which needs examination.

Here are some of the conditions that require attention through MRI scans:

• If you are suffering from brain and spinal tumours, along with brain aneurysms, it is mandatory to conduct an MRI examination.
• Multiple sclerosis, along with compression or any signs of inflammation within the spinal cord and nerves which is also known as a pinched nerve condition.
• Cardiac (heart) MRIs are standard when diagnosing coronary artery disease and cardiovascular conditions such as tumours, infections, and more.
• If you suffer from congenital heart disease, it is critical to conduct an MRI scan for practical evaluation of the anatomy and function of the heart.
• Whole-body MRI helps distinguish ulcerative colitis from Crohn’s disease and vasculitis.
• You should also go through an MRI scan to detect any form of abnormalities within your bone, such as bone infections (osteomyelitis), bone tumours, and more.

Next, let’s review some steps to take before an MRI to ensure accurate results.

Also read: Comprehensive Radiology Care in India: Eskag Sanjeevani Radiology’s Impact on Diagnostics

Preparation for an MRI Procedure

Proper preparation for an MRI procedure ensures precise and accurate results. Patients are typically advised to avoid food or fluids for a few hours before the scan and may need to remove metal objects to prevent interference with the imaging process.

Here’s a stepwise process to appropriately for a thorough and safe MRI examination.

Step 1: Restriction in Food and Hydration

You may eat, drink and take medication before undergoing most MRI tests. However, certain MRI tests require specific restrictions. Therefore, it is essential to consult with your diagnostic professional before going through such a process.

Step 2: Appropriate Clothing

It is essential to remove all your personal clothing before the process and to lock all your personal belongings in a safe place. Moreover, it is critical to remove all piercings and jewellery before MRI scans.

Step 3: Test for Allergy

Some MRI exams require IV contrast, and it is essential to check whether you have any allergies to MRI contrast. It is critical to maintain an open communication with your healthcare professional, and in most cases, it is recommended to provide such information before any diagnostic procedure.

Step 4: Getting Accustomed to a Strong Magnetic Environment

It is essential to inform your doctor before your appointment if there is any metal surface in your body. Moreover, it is a good practice to provide in-depth information, such as the type and location, as well as the eligibility for MRI.

Now, let’s understand the complete procedure for an MRI scan from start to finish so you have a safe and comfortable experience.

Procedure for an MRI Scan

The MRI scan procedure involves lying still in a cylindrical machine while magnetic fields and radio waves create detailed images of the body’s internal structures. MRI scans have a strict protocol and are often performed on an outpatient basis.

Here’s a breakdown of an MRI procedure:

• You will have to remove all the jewellery, eyeglasses, along with removable dental work, and more, to avoid any form of interference.
• The next step is to lie on the scanning table, and in some cases, straps may be used to prevent any form of movement during the process.
• During scanning, you will hear clicking noises from the scanner. It is essential to stay very still throughout to maintain scan quality.
• At intervals, the diagnostic professional may ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds. However, you should not hold your breath for more than a few seconds.