Unlike other imaging modalities (X-ray, CT, PET-CT) that produce images with high energy electromagnetic radiation, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner uses strong magnetic fields and gradients, and radio waves to generate images with the following uniqueness.
Below is the information regarding the uses, safety issues, concerns of undergoing a MRI examination and its advantages and limitations in comparison with other types of imaging modalities.
Comparing with other imaging modalities, MRI provides superior tissue contrast resolution, and therefore is frequently used to assess areas such as the brain, spine, ligament, joints, muscles, heart, blood vessels, breast, abdomen and pelvis. With regards to the diagnosis of cancer, MRI localises the lesion, differentiates benign from malignant soft tissue tumour of some kinds, and detects metastasis if necessary. Apart from assisting doctors make treatment plan, MRI is also used to monitor tumour progression during the entire course of treatment.
As a diagnostic rather than treatment modality, an MRI examination does not bring any side effects to the patients in general. Below are some proper precautions taken prior to the examination to avoid any accident.
Food intake is not allowed for 4 hours before the procedure for patients undergoing magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography; some cardiac medications should be suspended for 2 days in advance and caffeinated beverage is not allowed on the day of examination for patients undergoing cardiac MRI.
Patients should inform us of any diseases such as renal insufficiency, current medications, history of drug allergy or other health conditions such as pregnancy.
Patients are reminded to remove all metallic objects such as jewelry (earrings, rings, body piercings), personal valuables, electron devices, and asked to change into a gown before the procedure.
Patients are screened for compatibility of metallic implants such as pacemaker, artificial heart valves, dental implants, cochlear implants, neurostimulators, intra-uterine devices before the procedure.
Should there be any issues, radiographers are there to provide as much assistance as possible.
Common tests for diagnosing cancer includes blood test, urine test, imaging test, biopsy and genetic test. Apart from diagnosing cancer, these investigations can also localise the primary site, differentiate the specific cancer cell type, perform cancer staging, identify whether there is metastasis, formulate treatment plan, monitor disease progression and detect recurrence. Below is the information regarding different tests.
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