How to prepare for MRI with Contrast and how it works

If the MRI requires the use of contrast medium, the physician has the additional duty to ensure that the patient does NOT suffer from renal and hepatic insufficiency , that he does NOT have any allergy to the intended contrast medium and that, in case of a female patient, NOT pregnant or presumed to be pregnant ; the situations just mentioned, in fact, are to be considered contraindicated to magnetic resonance with contrast stand up mri in East Brunswick.

In case of eligibility for contrast MRI, the patient is required to:

Perform a blood creatinine test ( creatininemia ) near the diagnostic procedure (within the previous 30 days) and take the results with you on the day of the test ;

Observe a complete fast in the last 6-8 hours before the exam.

How It Works

Magnetic Resonance Equipment

The traditional magnetic resonance device basically consists of a large and deep hollow cylinder open at both ends, capable of accommodating an individual lying on a special sliding bed inside. In the standard versions of MRI devices, the diameter of the central opening is 60 centimeters; in the more advanced versions, however, it also reaches 70 centimeters.

For the entire MRI procedure, the patient can count on the support of a radiologist , who will guide him in all moments of the procedure.

The various stages of the diagnostic test in question are listed below in chronological order.

Preparations

First, the patient must answer a questionnaire reminding the contraindications to MRI; subsequently, he must take off and place in a special dressing room, until the end of the procedure, all objects and clothing containing metal parts, as these would interfere with the correct functioning of the equipment; finally, it receives all the information relating to what it can do and what it must not do while the appliance is in operation.

Patient positioning

Once the preparations have been completed, the patient must lie down on the sliding bed combined with the magnetic resonance equipment, taking the position indicated by the radiologist; for comfortable positioning on the sliding bed, you can count on various comforts, such as pillows and blankets.

If foreseen, the administration of the contrast medium takes place when the patient is lying and at ease on the sliding table; only a radiologist can carry out the administration of the contrast medium.