MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging - how does it work?

MRI machines are fascinating pieces of technology that use a combination of radio waves and magnets to create images of organs and tissues inside the body. These machines are large and tube-shaped, with a radio station and antennas that work in unison. The magnet creates a magnetic field, while the radio station sends out pulses at a certain frequency, which causes the hydrogen atoms in the body to align themselves in the direction of the magnetic field. This alignment helps create cross-sectional images of organs and tissues, which the doctor can analyze on a monitor. By analyzing these images, the doctor can distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue.
Through the use of MRI, a detailed image can be captured of nearly all objects that contain hydrogen. This provides clear visualizations of liquid-filled organs such as the brain, soft tissues, blood vessels, and joints. MRI scanners do not use damaging ionizing radiation.
No harm will come to you lying in the tomograph. It's completely safe. So, rest assured that the examination will be conducted as frequently as required. One of the main advantages of our magnetic resonance imaging scanner is the strength of the magnetic field. Our medical center features a premium-high qualified Signa Pioneer 3 Tesla MRI machine, known for its superior research capabilities, imaging quality, and reliability.

What is the purpose of an MRI?

MRI technology is a valuable tool for the detection of diseases, accurate diagnosis, and treatment monitoring. MRI is a medical imaging technique that can diagnose tumors, traumatic injuries, and inflammations. It can also detect other types of pathological changes in organs that can affect their function and the state of the body. Additionally, MRI can assess the state of the vessels of both the arterial and venous systems. It can identify aneurysms, anomalies in the development of blood vessels, and how identified pathological conditions in the organs affect the vessels. For example, whether the tumor grows into the lumen of the vessel or there is compression of the vessel by a herniated disc or osteophytes that form along the vertebral bodies. When it comes to detecting the smallest abnormalities, MRI is definitely the way to go. And with 3 Tesla machines capable of making one-millimeter slices, it's even more effective. This means that even the tiniest pathological changes in deeply located organs and tissues can be revealed. And for follow-up monitoring, it's important to have data from previous studies. Luckily, if you've had an MRI with us before, the images are already in the PACS database, making it easy to evaluate the effectiveness of your treatment.

What are the advantages of the Signa Pioneer 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging scanner?

Our SIGN Pioneer 70 cm wide bore system was designed to provide more space and helps lower anxiety in patients Soothing Silence. Thanks to SilentScan that is both revolutionary and proprietary, the SIGNA™ Pioneer reduces dB levels from an ear-splitting, motorcycle-level 91dB to within 3dB of scan room ambient noise. Thanks to Motion-free and Breath-free technology, you do not need to hold your breath when scanning a number of areas, such as the abdominal cavity. In addition, patients don't need to be completely immobilized in the device, which can be burdensome, especially for those in pain.
Advanced TDI technology. (Total Digital Imaging), means greater clarity and increased SNR (signal-to-noise-ratio) by up to 25%.
In addition to accommodating larger patients, full 50x50x48cm field of view (FOV) in a 70cm wide bore allows you to properly image off-center anatomy such as shoulders and hips.
Ultra-thin sections and SIGNA Works software provide high resolution and clarity of anatomical images.
The tomograph is equipped with a complete set of RF coils for examining all anatomical areas, including a coil for examining the mammary glands.
How to prepare for an MRI and how is the exmination carried out?
Most MRI exams do not require any preparation, except for those focusing on the abdominal cavity, small pelvis, gallbladder, or biliary tract.(there should be links to preparation). All metal objects should be removed before an MRI procedure. The duration of the MRI varies depending on the area examined, ranging from 15 minutes to an hour. During the examination, it is important for the patient to remain still in the tomograph. The doctor maintains voice and visual contact with the patient throughout the study to make it comfortable and completely safe.

What is contrast-enhanced MRI?

It's a special research method where a contrast agent based on gadolinium is injected into the patient intravenously. This is an important stage of the study because it helps identify pathological tissue in organs since the accumulation of the contrast agent in it differs from healthy tissue. This is especially useful when examining patients with neoplasms of both benign and malignant origin. The best part is that contrast agents are harmless, usually do not cause allergic reactions, and do not affect kidney function.

What are the contraindications for an MRI?

The presence of ferromagnetic metals, such as plates or dental posts, and non-removable devices like pacemakers and hearing prostheses that are prone to magnetization, are contraindications. It is important to inform your doctor if you have any of these contraindications before the procedure.
After undergoing an MRI scan, the patient is provided with a detailed description protocol that outlines any pathological changes and offers recommendations for consulting with a specialized clinical doctor. The MR images are saved on a disk or memory card and then handed over to the patient.