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MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Description:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI or MR) utilizes magnetic fields instead of radiation to take highly detailed pictures of the body. The images are obtained by surrounding the area of study with a magnet, which causes the water molecules inside the body to move. A computer picks up the movements and converts them into pictures. The images can be displayed on a computer screen, stored within the computer, or transferred to film. The Hoboken University Imaging Center has the latest in high-field strength magnets, which are scanners that fully surround the body so that optimal images are obtained.

The GE Signa 1.5 Short Bore Magnetic Resonance Imaging system enables physicians to perform exquisite resolution scans of any body part with great detail. The GE Signa 1.5 is also one of the most patient-friendly MRI systems offering faster exams, minimal amounts of contrast agents needed for exams and a non-claustrophobic design that helps put people at ease. To alleviate apprehension sedation is available for qualifying patients.

What To Expect During an MRI Scan:

You will lie on a table that glides into the MRI scanner.
While the scan is in progress, you will hear banging noises that are caused by the changing magnetic fields.
For your comfort, you will be offered earplugs to block the noise or headphones if you want to listen to music during your scan. Eye masks are also available.
The two-way microphone and speakers inside the MRI machine allow you and the technologist to speak to each other during the scan.
An MRI takes 30 to 45 minutes or longer, depending on the area of the body being scanned.

Patient Preparations for an MRI:

Intravenous contrast may be required for certain MRI scans. If contrast is required, you must bring a list of all medications, dosage, and how often the medications are taken. If you are having an MRCP, you cannot eat or drink after midnight the night before the exam. All other MRI procedures do not require any preparation. An MRI may affect certain types of medical devices, such as a pacemaker or surgical clips.

If you need an MRI with IV contrast (gadolinium)

The FDA Boxed Warning

Exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA’s) increases the risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients with:

acute or chronic severe renal insufficiency (glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min/1.73m2) or
acute renal insufficiency of any severity due to the hepato-renal syndrome or in the perioperative liver transplantation period.

NSF is a debilitating and sometimes fatal disease affecting the skin, muscle, and internal organs.
Avoid use of GBCAs unless the diagnostic information is essential and not available with non-contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Screen all patients for rental dysfunction by obtaining a history and/or laboratory tests.
When administering a GBCA, do not exceed the dose recommended in product labeling. Allow sufficient time for elimination of the GBCA prior to any readministration.