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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Definition

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a diagnostic procedure that produces detailed images of specific areas of the body. The images are produced using a strong magnetic field, radio waves and a high spec computer system. The examination is extremely safe and exposes the patient to no radiation.

Equipment

The Sports Surgery has installed and commissioned the first 3T MR scanner in a hospital in Ireland. This latest generation of MR scanner offers the most advanced technology of its kind in the world and allows radiologists see a level of detail that has never been achievable before. It allows for shorter exam times, increased diagnostic confidence and allows for a definitive diagnoses on even the most difficult cases.

Any part of your body can be imaged to assist in the diagnosis of your medical condition.

3T MRI delivers the most comprehensive applications in the industry, providing unprecedented diagnostic capabilities for the assessment of anatomy, morphology, physiology and function.

Preparation

For the majority of examinations no preparation is required. You may continue to eat and drink and take your medication as usual. If any preparation is required a member of staff will contact you with instructions after you schedule your appointment.

In many cases, you can have your MRI scan performed while wearing your own clothes. However for safety reasons we must ensure that none of your clothing or accessories contains any metal that could be attracted to the magnet and interfere with your scan.

For your own safety and convenience, we ask that you observe the following:

Wear comfortable clothes without metal zippers, safety pins, studs or buckles.
Remove any metal containing objects such as, jewellery, hairpins, hearing aids, glasses, wigs, watches etc. Preferably leave valuables at home.
Empty your pockets of all loose items such as money, coins, credit cards, mobile phones, keys, pens etc.
If you are required to change a hospital gown and trousers will be provided.
Dressing rooms and lockers for valuables are available in the MRI Department.
It is important that you bring any previous studies that relate to this procedure with you for comparison.
Please call us prior to your appointment if you are pregnant or have a cardiac pacemaker, cardiac valves, implanted cardiac defibrillator, aneurysm clips, cochlear ear implants, heart stents and retinal implants.

The Procedure

On Arrival:

Please check in at the Diagnostic Imaging reception on the ground floor. Please allow 15 minutes for checking in and completing the MR questionnaire.

Once Checked In:

You will be seated in the MRI waiting room where a radiographer will review your questionnaire and if necessary you will be asked to change into a gown. They will explain in detail what the procedure will involve and how long it will take. This is an excellent time to ask questions or express concerns.

The Scan Itself:

For the majority of scans you will be required to lie on your back on a cushioned table and a devise called a coil will be placed around the area of interest. When you are comfortable and safely positioned, the table will move very slowly into the magnet opening. The radiographer will explain what to expect and how long each sequence will take. During the exam you will hear a knocking sound as the images are acquired. Once the exam starts it is essential to lie still, because even slight movements can effect image quality. The Radiographer will communicate with you throughout the exam via an intercom. In addition you will be given a small call bell to hold, that you may activate if the need arises. This will immediately alert the radiographer that you have a concern or a question. To help you relax our scanner is equipped with a music system. You may select the music of your choice from the list provided or alternately you may bring your own selection on your own MP3 player.

Obtaining the Results

Your MRI Scan will be interpreted by a Consultant Radiologist who specialises in MR Imaging. Your exam will be reported on within 24 hours of your study being completed. The report and the images are then sent to your referring Clinician. You will be contacted by your referring Clinician in due course to discuss the findings of this procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the scanner look like?

The scanner is wide open on both ends, and well lit and ventilated throughout. There is a call button and two-way intercom system so that you can communicate with the Radiographer at all times.
Is there any risk?

MRI is very safe. There are no health risks associated with the magnetic field or the radio waves used by the machine nor have any side effects been reported. It is important to complete the safety-screening sheet prior to the procedure as some conditions may preclude you from having an MRI.
May I have an MRI exam when I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

While an MRI scan has no known side effects, it is not recommended for pregnant women unless it is medically indicated. If you are pregnant or think you might be, please tell your doctor before scheduling your exam.

It is safe to have an MRI while breast feeding however if you are breast feeding and are going to have a gad injection, it is recommended you wait 48hrs after the injection before beginning to breast feed again.
How is MRI different from a CT or an x-ray?

Unlike x-ray exams, MRI does not use ionizing (x-ray) radiation. Instead, MR creates high-quality images through the combination of a strong magnetic field and radio waves.
Why is the scanner so noisy?

The scanner works with strong magnetic fields, which builds up energy. The energy is released as loud knocking sounds.
What can I expect during the examination?

For the majority of scans you will be required to lie on your back on a cushioned table and a devise called a coil will be placed around the area of interest. When you are comfortable and safely positioned, the table will move very slowly into the magnet opening. The radiographer will explain what to expect and how long each sequence will take during the exam you will hear a knocking sound as the images are acquired. Once the exam starts it is essential to lie still, because even slight movements can effect image quality. The Radiographer will communicate with you throughout the exam via an intercom. In addition you will be given a small call bell to hold, that you may activate if the need arises. This will immediately alert the radiographer that you have a concern or a question. To help you relax our scanner is equipped with a music system. You may select the music of your choice from the list provided or alternately you may bring your own selection on your own MP3 player.
What if I am claustrophobic?

Although most people are able to tolerate this exam well, some become very anxious inside the scanner. If you know that you become very uncomfortable in small, enclosed spaces, please tell our staff or your doctor before scheduling your exam and arrangements can be made address this.

Contacting us

If you have any questions about your examination or there is something you think we should be aware of prior to your procedure, please contact Diagnostic Imaging:

Tel no: 01 526 2060