What Is MRI Scan? Uses, Safety and Side Effects

An MRI scan is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses magnets and radio waves. The magnetism along with computer aids in developing scan images of the inside of the body. MRI scanning machine is a giant tube surrounded by a huge circular magnet. You will be lying on a scan table which slides into the circular scanner. These magnets create a magnetic field which helps impart a beam of radio waves to produce scan images. A computer is used for image display and study. MRI scan produces a high resolution and detailed scan images. Sometimes MRI scans can use a contrast medium which can be gadolinium based.

What Are the Types of MRI Scan?

• Abdominal MRI
• Pelvic MRI
• MRV- Magnetic Resonance Venography
• Lumbar MRI
• Chest MRI
• Heart MRI
• fMRI- Functional MRI
• MRA- magnetic resonance angiography
• Enterography by MRI

Uses of MRI Scan

MRI scan can help-

• Diagnosing any infections
• To guide for biopsy procedures
• For identification of masses like tumours and cancers
• To study blood vessels

MRA is a form of Magnetic resonance imaging technique that creates a 3 dimensional picture of the blood vessels hence named so.

Preparation Before the MRI Procedure

• eat/drink- you can continue your normal routine for an MRI scan unless you are getting contrast based study. In contrast based MRI scan, you need to not eat anything at least 4-6 hours prior to the test but you can drink clear fluids.
• Clothing- you will be asked to change your clothes into a hospital gown for the scan. Also no jewellery is allowed during the scan.
• Allergy- some MRI scans require an IV contrast. If you have had allergic reaction to the contrast before, you should inform your doctor
• Claustrophobia and anxiety- if you are claustrophobic,you might need an anti anxiety medication before the scan. 
• Metal devices- the MRI scan uses strong magnets. If you have any metal device implanted, you should inform your healthcare provider beforehand
  • If you have cardiac pacemaker
  • If you have implantable pump such as insulin pump
  • If you have vessel coil, filters, stents or clips.
  • If you are pregnant
  • If you have had a bullet wound
  • If you work with metals
  • If you have tattoos including metallic ink

What Are the Risks of MRI Scan?

MRI does not use any radiations hence it does not pose any radiation related hazards

Although sometimes contrast medium is used for the test, which may cause allergic reactions like-

• Itching, redness and swelling
• Dizziness, lightheadedness and headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty in breathing etc.

The MRI scan uses strong magnets which can cause dysfunctioning of implanted metal devices like cardiac pacemaker, stents etc. the magnetism might cause the metal pieces to shift their position, thereby rendering their functioning altered.

Conclusion

The MRI scan result can reveal a lot of conditions like cancer. MRI scan is a comparatively safe test in terms of radiation exposure. You should always prefer an early diagnosis rather than late. Similar to the quote that says prevention is better than cure. Search for a diagnostic centre near you to Book an online appointment for easy and smooth appointment.