Cost of Brain MRI Scan with Contrast in India
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What is MRI Scan Brain Contrast?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a type of imaging that is used to assess a variety of medical conditions. An MRI with contrast is sometimes ordered by healthcare providers to help improve the diagnostic quality of the images. Internal organs and soft tissues can be visualised in great detail using MRI with contrast.
Gadolinium, a rare earth metal found in MRI contrast agents, interacts with the magnetic field emitted by the machines.
Why is the MRI Scan Brain Contrast done?
Doctors can use MRI scans to see what’s going on inside the body. Unlike CT scans and X-rays, these scans do not emit radiation.
The images created by MRI scans are created using strong magnetic forces and radio waves. They have the ability to scan bone, organs, and tissue, making them ideal for a complicated body part like the head.
MRI scans, especially in soft tissue, provide more detail than other imaging techniques. When looking for damage or disease in the brain or brain stem, this is crucial.
Doctor may also advise this test in order to detect-
- Infections
- Tumours
- Seizures
- Multiple sclerosis
This test can also be done before or after brain surgery, or when any abnormality is suspected.
Who should get the MRI Scan Brain Contrast done?
MRI scans, especially in soft tissue, provide more detail than other imaging techniques. When looking for damage or disease in the brain or brain stem, this is crucial.
If a doctor suspects that a person has one of the following conditions, an MRI head scan may be recommended:
- A brain tumour
- A chronic condition that affects the head, such as multiple sclerosis eye or inner ear issues
- A brain aneurysm
- Blocked arteries
- Epilepsy, stroke, hydrocephalus, or fluid in the brain
- Infections in the head or brain
Disclaimer: It is advised to always consult your doctor for interpreting the test reports.
What precautions should I take?
- Please follow the instructions suggested by your doctor
- Inform if one is on any medications or if any on-going treatment going on
- Show your old reports, if any
- Inform if one is pregnant / breast-feeding.
What does the MRI Scan Brain Contrast measure?
Cysts, tumours, bleeding, swelling, developmental and structural abnormalities, infections, inflammatory conditions, and blood vessel problems can all be detected using an MRI scan. It can detect damage to the brain caused by an injury, infection or stroke and determine if a shunt is working.
An MRI of the brain can be helpful in evaluating problems like chronic headaches, dizziness, weakness, blurry vision, or seizures, as well as detecting certain chronic nervous system diseases like multiple sclerosis.
In some cases, an MRI can provide clear images of parts of the brain that an X-ray, CAT scan, or ultrasound can’t, making it especially useful for diagnosing problems.
What all tests are included in the MRI Scan Brain Contrast?
For this particular test, your radiologist will only perform an MRI scan using a contrast dye. Your kidney function or creatinine will be tested before undergoing the test.
MRI Scan Brain Contrast Preparation
It is important to inform the doctor if you are pregnant/breastfeeding or have claustrophobia before undergoing the test.
- You must inform the doctor and staff at the centre about any of your implants, pacemaker device, vascular stents etc.
- You are not allowed to take any metal objects or electronic devices in the test area.
- You must remove all the jewellery before undergoing the test.
- You will be asked to wear a hospital gown before undergoing the test.
- In this type of test a contrast dye will be given intravenous.
- It is important to inform the doctor if you had any allergic reactions to contrast dye in the past or if you are suffering from kidney disease.
- You must inform them about all the medicines that you may be taking before undergoing the test.
MRI Scan Brain Contrast Procedure
The licensed lab technician at the centre or hospital will guide you best for the test process.
The technician will take the patient into the room where the MRI scanner is located. The patient will be placed on a sliding trolley and may be covered with a sheet by the technician.
The technician will then manoeuvre the trolley into position so that the person’s head and neck are within the MRI scanner. They will leave the room and communicate with the individual via radio.
What to expect after the MRI Scan Brain Contrast is done?
An MRI with contrast will, in most cases, have no immediate or long-term consequences. If you have any unusual or severe symptoms, such as:
- Heart rate that is abnormal
- Breathing problems
- An injection site with severe pain, redness, swelling, or discharge
Talk to your doctor.
When will I get the MRI Scan Brain Contrast report?
You will receive your MRI Scan Brain Contrast about a week after your test was done. However, The time may vary based on your condition and the availability of the radiologist.
How will I get the MRI Scan Brain Contrast report?
To receive your report, you will have to visit the radiology clinic or lab where the test was done. Once there, your radiologist or lab technician will provide you with the MRI Scan Brain Contrast Report with all the accompanying images and may explain the results to you.
How to interpret the MRI Scan Brain Contrast report?
A radiologist will interpret your MRI with contrast scans, putting the results in context with previous scans and your medical history. Within a few days, they’ll send you a radiology report, which you’ll go over with your healthcare provider.
A typical radiology report includes a copy of each individual scan as well as notes on any abnormalities that were discovered. Typically, each image will be categorised as one of the following:
- Normal
- Abnormal
- Inconclusive
The impressions section of the report will contain specific details that your healthcare provider can explain to you.
The radiologist may offer a specific diagnosis or a list of possible causes in a differential diagnosis based on the scans and a review of your medical history.
Is there any risk involved?
There is no risk of radiation exposure during an MRI procedure because radiation is not used. However, due to the use of a powerful magnet, MRI cannot be performed on patients with the following conditions:
- Pacemakers
- Clips for intracranial aneurysms
- Implants for the cochlea
- Certain prosthetic devices
- Drug infusion pumps that have been implanted
Any type of iron-based metal implant; or certain intrauterine contraceptive devices.
Internal metallic objects, such as bullets or surgical clips, mesh wire, etc may be a contraindication for MRI.
You should tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. MRI is not recommended for pregnant women due to risk of harm to the baby.
There is a risk of an allergic reaction to contrast dye if it is used. Patients with allergies or sensitivities to medications, contrast dye, or iodine should alert the radiologist or technologist. Other conditions such as allergies, asthma, anaemia, hypotension (low blood pressure), and sickle cell disease may be affected by MRI contrast.
What equipment or instruments are used for MRI Scan Brain Contrast?
A head MRI can be performed using a variety of scanners. The size of the machine will be determined by the scan’s purpose.
canners come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
- Closed bores: These resemble huge tubes into which a person enters by lying down on a sliding bench.
- Short bore: The tubular part of this machine is shorter, making it less likely to cause claustrophobia.
- Wide bore: The opening of the tubular area in these machines can be around 70 centimetres.
- Open MRI: These are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can have a top or a side that is open.
How long does the MRI Scan Brain Contrast take?
An MRI usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. If contrast is used, the exam may take another 30 minutes depending on the technician and contrast used. When you arrive, the staff will let you know how long the exam should take.
How do I book the MRI Scan Brain Contrast through MFine?
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Frequently asked questions on MRI of brain
Why would a doctor order brain MRI with contrast?
A doctor may order a brain MRI with contrast for the following reasons:
The head and neck- Contrast agents can help detect brain tumors, traumatic brain injury, developmental anomalies, multiple sclerosis, stroke, dementia, and infection using MRI with contrast.
How long does a brain MRI take?
An MRI usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. If contrast is used, the exam may take longer. When you arrive, the staff will let you know how long the exam should take.
Can a brain mri detect cancer or tumour growth?
Some cancers can be found and pinpointed using MRI. An MRI with contrast dye is the most effective way to detect tumours in the brain and spinal cord. Doctors can sometimes tell if a tumour is cancerous or not using MRI.
Are MRI results available immediately?
It’s unlikely that you’ll get your scan results right away. The radiologist will send a report to the doctor who scheduled the scan, who will talk to you about the results. The results of an MRI scan usually take a week or two to arrive, unless they’re needed right away.
What are the common head injuries that may require an MRI scan?
The common types of head injuries that may require MRI Scanning are:
- Concussion
- Contusion
- Intracranial hematoma
Is there any need to alter my diet before an MRI Scan?
Drink nothing for the first hour before your appointment. Please notify your referring physician if you have previously experienced nausea or vomiting as a result of an MRI scan. Unless otherwise directed, take your medications as prescribed.
What should a patient not do before an MRI?
The most important thing to avoid before an MRI is lying or withholding information from your doctor or the MRI technicians. Certain people should avoid MRIs. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, the MRI may be postponed if possible.
What are the side effects of an MRI with contrast?
Contrast agent reactions are usually immediate, resulting in mild symptoms like hives, vomiting, dizziness, and a runny nose, or severe symptoms like a life-threatening heart attack. However, many people have a delayed reaction, with symptoms appearing six to 12 hours after the contrast agent is injected or swallowed.
For how long does the contrast dye stay in your body post MRI?
With normal kidney function, the majority of the gadolinium is excreted in the urine within 24 hours. If you have acute renal failure or severe chronic kidney disease and are given a gadolinium-based contrast agent, it may remain in your system for a few days until your kidneys process and remove it.
Do I get to go home immediately after a head MRI?
Yes, once your scan is done you will be immediately allowed to go home. However, if you feel dizziness, nausea or any other side effects or if you suffer from any chronic condition, your doctor may ask you to stay back for a while to ensure there is no complication.
Can children undergo MRI Scan?
Yes, MRI scan is a safe procedure and can be done on children and infants.
How can brain tumors be prevented?
There is no single sure shot way to prevent brain tumour. However, you can take certain steps to reduce the risk of developing it. They are:
- Pesticides and insecticides should be avoided.
- Avoid contact with carcinogenic chemicals.
- Smoking should be avoided.
- Avoid unnecessarily exposing yourself to radiation.
What are the symptoms associated with brain tumours?
Some of the symptoms associated with brain tumour are:
- Irritability, drowsiness, apathy, or forgetfulness
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the arms or legs.
- Dizziness.
- Partial blindness or deafness.
- Hallucinations, depression, or mood swings
- Personality changes, including unusual and out-of-character behaviour
Is the contrast used in MRIs dangerous?
Gadolinium, the contrast agent used in MRIs, is considered safe for most people despite the low risk of side effects and allergic reactions. An MRI with contrast, on the other hand, could be dangerous for pregnant women and people with kidney disease.
What is the difference between an MRI with or without contrast?
Both are scans that use magnetic and radio waves to take pictures inside your body. A dye is injected into your veins or taken orally for an MRI with contrast. This dye draws attention to specific tissues on your body, making the image more detailed. It’s useful for learning about specific types of disorders.
Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.