Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most
outstanding innovation that
provides doctors a method of seeing the internal organs of your
body
without using X-rays.
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to
acquire
remarkably clear and detailed images of your internal organs
and tissues.
It is capable of acquiring high soft-tissue contrast images
of a wide range
of pathologic conditions in all parts of your body, of the brain
in detecting
stroke, the spine and nervous system, muscles, joints and ligaments,
etc.,
allowing our radiologists to diagnose, and for your doctor to
treat you
with greater emphasis.
Currently,
uses Siemens 1.5 Tesla
Quantum Gradient (Maestro Class) to scan patients.
Majority of people can undergo an MRI scan, except for those
who has
- cardiac pacemaker
- neurostimulator
- cerebral aneurysmal clip
- cochlear implant
- embedded metal shrapnel
It is safe to have an MRI scan during pregnancy. Due to the
fact that MRI causes
slight body heating, scanning for the first trimester (3 month)
of pregnancy is
avoided, unless the diagnosis are more crucial for further assessment
and
treatment to the patient.
On the day of MRI Examination
Do not be late for your appointment and do not
wear make-up or apply hair sprays.
Do not eat for at least 4 hours before your appointment if you
are required to undergo
the MRI scan of your abdomen.
You are required to change into a hospital gown prior to the
MRI scan. A locker will be
provided for the safe-keeping of your belongings. Credit cards,
watches, wallets,
car keys and metallic items such as coins, jewellery, pins etc.
have to be removed and
kept in the locker. Credit cards could be damaged by the magnetic
field and the presence
of metallic objects might cause artifacts in the images.
Our Radiology Dept staff will go through with you a list of
questions to ensure that you
are safe to undergo the MRI scan.
The MRI Examination
You are required to lie on the MRI table and
a switch will be given to you in case you require
assistance during the MRI scanning.
A "coil" will be placed around your body or area of
interest before you are positioned into the
tunnel. During image acquisition, the MRI machine produces a
series of loud noise and as
such, your ears will be covered.
Make yourself comfortable, relax and lie very still for the
MRI scan which may vary from
20 to 45 minutes depending on the area of interest. Do let us
know how we could help you
to ensure the outcome of the scan is of the best possible quality.
Results of the Exam
The images taken will be printed out and will
be reviewed, analysed and interpreted by the
Radiologist. The films and report will then be sent to your
referring doctor who will discuss
the findings with you on the same day or on your next visit.
uses Siemens 1.5 Tesla