Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced, non-invasive radiological imaging method that, using a strong magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer, produces detailed images of the human body based on the magnetic properties of protons when exposed to magnetic fields.
The examination is very safe because it does not use ionising radiation (unlike X- rays and CT scans that use radiation) and is not associated with cancer induction - to date, there have been no documented significant side effects from the use of magnetic fields and radio waves in the human body.
The "Ygeia Florinas - Tomodiagnosi Ltd." centre has a modern MRI scanner, the Signa HDxt 1.5T by the American manufacturer GE Healthcare, which allows the performance of high-quality – common as well as (some) specialised - MRI examinations:
- Common MRI scans (of the central and peripheral nervous system, musculoskeletal system, neck, thorax, upper & lower abdomen, retroperitoneal area)
- Specialised MRI scans (magnetic resonance mammography, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, magnetic resonance urography, multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate)
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography (of the brain & body vessels).
Due to the strong magnet used, objects
containing metal are not allowed in the MRI
scanner room, as:
1. they may get damaged (e.g.,
watches, electronic cards, mobile
phones or other personal electronic
devices, hearing aids).
2. they may cause artifacts and distort
the images (e.g., keys, coins,
jewellery, pins, zippers, removable
dental appliances or orthodontic
treatments, metallic ink tattoos).
3. they may be attracted by the
magnetic field and moved within the
room.
There have been cases of injury to individuals (e.g., glasses, pens, nail clippers). It is necessary to remove all metal objects from the individual before entering the scanner room. Additionally, individuals may be asked to remove clothing and use a single-use medical gown.
MRI can be performed on individuals of all ages with appropriate indications.
The strong magnetic fields generated during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can interfere with and affect implants that may be present inside the patient's body. For this reason, no one is allowed to enter the scanning room without first answering a series of safety questions. Although newer implants developed in the last 10-15 years are generally compatible with MRI scanners, official documentation from the manufacturer or surgeon certifying their compatibility is required.
Additionally, individuals with implanted conventional cardiac pacemakers or automatic defibrillators are not permitted to undergo MRI scans and should not enter areas where such examinations are conducted.
! People with the following conditions may
not be eligible for magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI):
- Aneurysm clips in the brain
- Certain types of artificial heart
valves
- Cochlear implants
- Recently implanted artificial joints
- Certain types of vascular stents
(patients who had a stent placed in
the last trimester should avoid
undergoing the examination)
- Intrauterine contraceptive device
(IUD)
! Anyone who may have been exposed to metallic residues or shavings in the workplace (e.g., metal processing areas or explosive testing areas) or elsewhere (e.g., presence of metal shards or other metallic elements following injury) requires a skull radiograph to rule out the presence of metal in the eyes. Magnetic resonance imaging can cause serious damage.
Magnetic resonance imaging is not recommended for pregnant women during the first trimester of pregnancy. For the rest of the pregnancy, the examination is only performed in consultation with the clinician and based on indications, while it is not prohibited during the postpartum period.
Magnetic resonance imaging is usually not recommended in cases of acute trauma: life support equipment cannot safely enter the MRI room, and since it is a lengthy examination, valuable time may be wasted.
In special cases, depending on the indication and findings, the administration of intravenous contrast medium may be required for better and clearer imaging - the most common type of contrast agent is gadolinium, which is considered very safe:
! In case of a history of hypersensitivity
reactions, relevant information about the
possible administration of antiallergic
treatment should be provided.
! In the event of impaired kidney function,
the potential risk is discussed between the
treating physician and the radiologist.
The main disadvantages of magnetic resonance imaging include:
Claustrophobia: A significant drawback for many - approximately 20% of patients have difficulty completing the examination.
Immobility: Patients must remain completely still during the examination - any movements (involuntary or voluntary), even minimal ones, negatively affect image quality. Some individuals may be unable to remain still due to their psychology (e.g., anxiety, fear), age (e.g., young children), or illness (e.g., pain, tremor).
Noise: The MRI machine generates noise due to the changing magnetic fields and is normal. Earplugs or (if the head is not included in the examination) special headphones may be used to address the issue.
** For patients with claustrophobia and those who are unable to remain still, mild sedative medications may be administered, or the examination may be scheduled with mild intravenous sedation by an anaesthesiologist.
** Additionally, there are open MRI scanners that do not create the sensation of confinement and are better suited for individuals with claustrophobia (and for excessively obese individuals).