What is an MRI Scan?
An MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive and painless way to obtain a three-dimensional image of the body. Non-invasive means that no surgery or procedure is required. Using powerful magnets and radio waves, detailed images of your organs and tissues are created. MRI scans are often used to detect risk factors or diseases, to establish a diagnosis, or to monitor how well a treatment is working.
Hoe werkt een MRI-scan?
MRI machines use strong magnets to generate a powerful magnetic field. This field causes tiny particles in our body, protons, to align with the magnetic field (read more here about protons and MRI).
A special radiofrequency pulse is then sent through the body, causing the protons to move. Once the radiofrequency pulse stops, the protons return to their original position. The MRI scanner measures the energy released during this process.
The time it takes for the protons to return to their original state, and the amount of energy they release, differs per type of tissue. This allows a physician to distinguish different tissues such as muscle or fat.
To obtain the sharpest possible images of all tissues and organs, it is important to lie completely still during the scan. Movement can result in blurry or unclear images. In some cases, contrast agents may be administered during an MRI scan to enhance tissue visibility. These substances help the protons move more quickly, creating clearer images.
At Prescan, we do not use contrast agents.
Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) NIH
What Is an MRI Scan Used For?
MRI scanners are particularly suitable for imaging non-bony structures or soft tissues in the body. An MRI differs from a CT scan in that a CT uses radiation. (Read more here about the differences between MRI and CT.)
MRI images allow the radiologist to identify the possible presence of inflammation, tumors, fractures, cysts, or degeneration (arthrosis). A scan can therefore help determine the potential cause of symptoms such as (chronic) pain from organs or joints.
The brain, spinal cord, muscles, ligaments, and tendons are much more clearly visible on an MRI than on an X-ray or CT scan. This is why MRI is frequently used to visualize joint injuries, such as shoulder or knee injuries. Visit the examination pages of Prescan to see exactly what can—and cannot—be assessed with each type of scan.
Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) NIH
Are There Risks Associated With an MRI Scan?
Although an MRI does not use radiation—as a CT scan or X-ray does—it does use a strong magnetic field. This field extends beyond the machine itself and can strongly affect objects made of iron, certain types of steel, and other magnetic materials. The magnetic force is so powerful that it could even pull a wheelchair across the room.
For this reason, anyone undergoing an MRI must inform their physician about any form of metal present in their body.
In addition to the magnetic field, the following factors should be considered during an MRI scan:
Noise
An MRI scan can be loud, often described as banging or knocking. You will receive hearing protection during the scan to make the experience more comfortable.
Nerve Stimulation
During the scan, you may feel a tingling sensation in the areas of the body being imaged. This is caused by the rapidly changing magnetic fields in the MRI scanner.
Claustrophobia
People with claustrophobia may find an MRI scan challenging because the space can feel quite enclosed. Open MRI scanners exist—these scanners have open sides rather than the standard tube-like design.
At Prescan, we do not have an open MRI scanner. Want to read more about claustrophobia and MRI? Click here.
Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) NIH
Which MRI examinations are available at Prescan?
At Prescan, various MRI examinations are available. Below is an overview:
- Bodyscan
- MRI scan head
- MRI scan breast implants
- MRI scan full spine
- MRI scan Cervical spine
- MRI scan mid back
- MRI scan lower back
- MRI scan upper abdomen
- MRI scan lower abdomen
- MRI scan hips & Pelvis
- MRI scan knee
How to Prepare for an MRI Scan
- Clothing and accessories: Wear comfortable clothing without metal parts, such as zippers or buttons. Remove all jewelry, watches, and other metal objects.
- Metal objects and implants: Inform the clinic beforehand if you have any metal implants, pacemakers, piercings, prostheses, or other medical devices in your body. MRI scanners use strong magnets, and certain metals can interfere with the scan or even pose a safety risk.
- Eating and drinking: In most cases, no specific dietary restrictions apply before an MRI scan. However, in some situations you may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours prior to the examination.
- Medical history: Inform the medical staff about any health issues, such as claustrophobia or anxiety, as these may affect the procedure.
- Staying calm during preparation: Because an MRI scan can take some time and may require lying in an enclosed space, it’s important to remain calm. If you suffer from claustrophobia, discuss this beforehand. There may be techniques to help make the experience more comfortable, such as relaxation exercises or medication.
How does the examination work at Prescan?
During the MRI scan, you will lie on a comfortable table that slides into a tunnel-shaped scanner, which is open at both the head and foot ends. While the images are being taken, the scanner produces a loud tapping sound. To make the experience more pleasant, you will receive headphones so you can listen to your favorite music. It is important to remain still during the moments when the scan is being made.
Additionally, it is essential that you do not wear any metal items inside the scanner (such as jewelry, keys, or hairpins). We will also ask you in advance whether you have worked with metal or whether there are any metal objects in your body. If you have worked with metal, there may be microscopic metal fragments present without you being aware of it. Because the MRI scanner has a strong attraction to metal, this can negatively affect the examination.
What Results Can I Expect After an MRI Scan at Prescan?
The results of the examination are discussed with you immediately afterward by the radiologist, so you know right away where you stand.
We take all the time needed for you and your health, which is why our radiologist carefully reviews the findings with you. If any relevant abnormalities are detected, we ensure a proper referral to your general practitioner.
Based on the images, the radiologist cannot make statements about organ function, complaints that occur only in certain positions or situations, general symptoms such as weight loss, weight gain, or overall fatigue, fat distribution, bone density (osteoporosis), or polymyalgia rheumatica.
Additionally, in the case of a tumor, it is necessary to have further examinations performed at a specialized center, such as the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, with whom Prescan maintains direct lines of communication.
Not all risk factors are visible on a scan. Therefore, we also offer comprehensive examination programs that include cardiological, dermatological, and/or laboratory testing.
