YOUR GUIDE ON MRI

WHAT IS MRI? Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a painless diagnostic test. The MRI scanner uses strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce images of the human body. No x-rays or ionizing radiation are used in the process. These images will give your doctors important information in diagnosing your medical condition and planning the course of treatment. 1

Scans requiring Contrast Medium The MRI contrast medium helps to highlight your organs and blood vessels to help the radiologist see them better. If you doctors or radiologist determines that your MRI scan requires contrast, you will need to undergo an intravenous preparation. A tiny tube or intravenous cannula will be inserted into your vein in the arm or hand prior to your MRI scan. The contrast medium will then be injected and administered through the cannula during the scan. Allergic reactions to MRI contrast are a rare. If it occurs, it usually produces a rash. This often settles on its own or may required some simple treatment with anti-allergy medication.

MAKING AN APPOINTMENT 2 We want to provide you with the best possible care. Hence, it is important for you to inform us if any of the following applies to you: Surgical Implants Kindly inform them if you have any metallic objects, surgical staples or implants in your body. These may include, but are not restricted to, pacemakers, neuro-stimulators, cochlear implants and all electronic devices. If you have any implants, please inform your radiographer BEFORE going into the scan room. DO NOT have an MRI scan if you have A pacemakers.

Pregnancy Please inform the staff if you are pregnant, or are likely to be pregnant. 3. Previous eye injury or foreign body It is important that you inform them if you have ever been hit in the eye with anything metallic objects, or if you have any metallic foreign body anywhere in the body. This includes shrapnel and bullets. Drug Allergy Kindly inform them if you have any drug allergies as some MRI scans require the use of contrast medium.

PREPARATION FOR YOUR MRI 3 PREPARATION FOR YOUR MRI Food & Drinks and Medication are OK There is no rest restriction on food or medication Consumption. Kindly inform us what medication you have taken prior to your MRI scan. If you are scheduled for certain abdomen scans, it is necessary for you to fast for 4-6 hours before the scan. Our staffs will inform you accordingly. No make-up and hairspray MRI uses a large magnet which attracts metal. Some brands of make up and hairspray contain metal which will interfere with the scan. It is important that you do not use hairspray or wear make-up, especially mascara, to prevent any complications.

What to bring If you have any previous x-rays, ultrasound and CT/MRI scan images; kindly bring them along with you. The radiologist may require them for comparison. What to wear It will be more convenient and comfortable for you to wear a loose top with pants or skirt when you turn up for your MRI. You will be asked to remove all metallic items as they will interfere with the MRI scan. You are advised not to bring any valuable items. It is important that you do not bring any magnetic cards into the scan room, e.g. ATM Cards, credit cards etc. The MRI magnet can affect the magnetic strip and damage the card.

4 WHEN YOU ARRIVE On arrival, kindly register and await your turn in the lounge area. You will be asked to remove all metallic items and change into a clean hospital gown. The changing area is private and there will be secure locker area for your clothes.

THE MRI SCAN Preparing you for the MRI scan 5 THE MRI SCAN MRI scan is a the simple procedure. Your radiographer will explain the steps to you when you are in the room. Preparing you for the MRI scan As you enter the MRI room, you will be asked to sit on the scan table. Your radiographer will explain the procedure to you before proceeding to position you for the scan. Your position will depend on the region scanned. An injection of contrast medium may be necessary for the diagnosis of certain conditions. The radiographer will be able to advise you depending on your situation.

MRI Scan It is important that you keep still throughout the scan. Any movement will cause blurring of the image. The MRI machine can get a little noisy during the scan. You will be provided disposable ear plugs or headphones to minimise the noise. Scan Review Please do not change out of the gown straight away. A radiologist will review your MRI image once they have been processed. It may be necessary to do additional views or other tests for further evaluation. Duration of Scan An MRI scan will typically last between 30 and 45 minutes per region. The time varies depending on invidual cases.

They strive to provide you with efficient and quality service standards. However, because of the nature of our work, we may not be able to keep strictly to the appointment schedule. They seek your kind understanding if this occurs. Please accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience cause. Thank you. 6 AFTER YOUR MRI SCAN There are usually no restrictions after having a MRI scan. You may resume your normal activities unless advised by the doctor or radiologist. If you have been provided with a contrast medium for your scan, remember to drink plenty of fluids. This will help to remove it from your body. Your MRI Report Our radiologists will analyse your set of MRI images. Your MRI results will be sent electronically to your doctor who will then discuss the results with you on your next appointment.

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