Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI)

Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) is a radiological imaging method that makes it possible to create detailed images of almost every structure in the human body, including internal organs, bones, muscles, and blood vessels. MRI machines create images of the body using a strong magnetic field and radio waves. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, which use ionizing radiation, NMRI does not involve exposure to harmful radiation, making it a safe option for diagnostic imaging of all patients, even pregnant women and children.

How does nuclear magnetic resonance imaging work?

An MRI is a large cylindrical machine that creates a strong magnetic field around the patient, which causes the hydrogen atoms in your body to align in the same direction. Radio waves are then sent from the MRI machine and they move these atoms out of their original position. As the radio waves are switched off, the atoms return to their original position and send back radio signals. These signals are received by the computer and converted into an image of the part of the body being examined, and the image appears on the screen.

NMRI is used to visualize internal structures and organs down to the smallest detail. It is particularly effective in imaging soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, muscles, tendons, joints, and internal organs (the heart, liver, and kidneys). It is also of great importance in the diagnosis of tumors and inflammation of bone structures. NMRI can help diagnose a wide range of conditions, including the following:

• Neurological disorders (such as brain tumors, stroke, and multiple sclerosis)
• Musculoskeletal injuries (such as torn ligaments or cartilage damage) and tumors
• Diseases of the heart and blood vessels
• Abnormalities in the breasts
• Abnormalities in the abdomen and pelvis

What are the indications for NMRI?

• Brain and spinal cord: NMRI is commonly used to examine pathological conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord, such as tumors, infections, bleeding, and nerve damage of various origin.
• Musculoskeletal system: NMRI helps diagnose tumors and assess injuries to bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, as well as degenerative conditions such as arthritis.
• Heart and blood vessels: NMRI can provide detailed images of the heart structure and function, revealing cardiac abnormalities, heart disease, and vascular disease.
• Abdomen and pelvis: NMRI is used to diagnose conditions affecting parenchymal organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and reproductive organs, as well as to detect tumors or abnormalities in these areas.
• Breasts: NMRI is used as an important tool for imaging the breasts inindividuals at high risk for developing cancer or to evaluate breast abnormalities detected by mammography or ultrasound.

Preparing for an MRI scan

Before undergoing an MRI, it is very important to prepare as per the instructions given to you by your doctor or the clinic.

Before the examination itself, you can eat, drink, and take medicines as usual. Some special MRI examinations require certain restrictions, however, the MD Clinic staff will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare when you schedule your appointment for an MRI. You will be asked to remove all clothing as well as any jewelry, including body jewelry.

Imaging at the MD Clinic is performed in a special room where a magnetic resonance imaging machine is located. This is a large tube-shaped device with a wide opening, which is particularly suitable for people who suffer from claustrophobia. When the imaging is being performed you need to lie still so that the image quality is the best possible. During its operation, the MRI machine produces some noise, therefore, in order to experience a more pleasant examination, you will be provided with headphones.

Certain MRI examinations require the use of a contrast agent. The contrast agent enables a better characterization of abnormalities as well as a better differentiation of abnormalities/lesions that are well-perfused from those that are not. The contrast agent is applied intravenously via a cannula that will be placed before the examination begins.

Based on your overall health status, your doctor may require other preparations. That is why it is important to inform your doctor when scheduling an examination if:

• you have a pacemaker or have had your heart valves replaced.
• you have any type of implanted pump, such as an insulin pump.
• you have stents or clips.
• you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant.
• you have metal fragments anywhere in your body.

How is an MRI examination performed?

Although specific protocols may vary, the MRI procedure generally follows several steps.

You will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, glasses, hearing aids, hairpins, or other items that may interfere with the procedure.

While you are lying in the MRI machine, the technician will be in another adjacent room where the machine’s controls are located and from where the entire examination process is monitored. The technician will have audio and visual contact with you. By pressing the button you will be holding during the examination, you can contact the technician at any time.

It is very important to remain completely still while the machine is in operation, as any movement can cause artifacts on the images and affect image quality.

If a contrast agent is used for the scan, you may feel some slight changes when it is injected into the vein. These are most often the appearance of redness on the skin or a cold sensation, a salty or metallic taste in the mouth, a short-lasting headache, or a brief sensation of itchingor nausea. These effects usually only last a few moments. While the MRI procedure itself does not cause pain, the necessity of lying still during the procedure may cause some discomfort or pain, especially if you have recently had an injury or an invasive procedure, such as surgery. The technician will employ all possible measures to ensure your comfort and will do their best to complete the procedure as quickly as possible.

What can you expect after an MRI scan?

To avoid dizziness from lying down during the procedure, you should move slowly when you get up from the MRI table.

If a contrast agent is administered to you during the procedure and if you experience any side effects or reactions, such as itching, swelling, a rash, or difficulty breathing after the examination, call your doctor immediately.

After the MRI scan, you can resume your normal diet and activities.