Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Physicians at Baptist Neurology Group use MRI to help diagnose a wide range of conditions, diseases, abnormalities and injuries. Unlike other kinds of imaging, MRI can “see” through bones, like the skull and vertebrae, to pinpoint an area of an organ or soft tissue. MRI doesn’t expose the patient or technician to radiation.

Some common medical situations where neurologists might need an MRI include Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other degenerative diseases, as well as stroke, tumors, aneurysms, abscesses, congenital abnormalities, hydrocephalus and many others. MRI technology is also helpful in diagnosing:

• Hypoxic encephalopathy (dysfunction of the brain due to a lack of oxygen)
• Encephalomyelitis (inflammation or infection of the brain and/or spinal cord)
• Herniated or degenerated discs of the spinal cord
• Malformations of veins and/or arteries of the brain or spinal cord
• Hemorrhage, or bleeding into the brain or spinal cord
• Subdural hematoma (bleeding just under the brain’s protective covering)

If an MRI has been recommended for you, or you’re scheduled to receive one, you probably wonder what it will be like. The procedure is painless. If you’re claustrophobic, you can request an Open MRI. A mild sedative is available if you need it. Convenient scheduling is easy to arrange.

Before the procedure: The physician or technologist will explain the procedure in detail and ask you to sign a consent form. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any objects that may interfere with the procedure. If your procedure calls for a contrast dye, an intravenous (IV) line will be started in your hand or arm. You may feel flushed or notice a metallic taste, but this usually lasts just a few seconds.

During the procedure: You’ll lie on a scan table that slides into a large circular opening of the scanning machine. The technologist will be in another room but will be able to communicate with you at all times. You’ll have a call button for the technologist.

You’ll hear a clicking noise as the scanner moves around you. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly. Notify the technologist if you feel any breathing difficulties, sweating, numbness, or heart palpitations. Once the scan is complete, the table will slide out of the scanner, and you will be assisted off the table. If there was an IV line, it will be removed.

Immediately after the procedure: Move slowly to avoid dizziness or lightheadedness. If sedatives were administered, you may need to rest until they wear off. You will also need to avoid driving. If contrast dye is used during your procedure, you may be monitored for a period of time for any side effects or reactions.

At home: No special care is required. Resume your usual diet and activities, unless your physician advises you differently. Notify your physician if you notice any pain, redness, and/or swelling at the IV site after you return home. Your physician may ask you to follow additional or alternate instructions.

If you’ve been told you need an MRI, the staff at any Baptist Neurology Group office can schedule it for you. Night appointments are available.

There is no risk of exposure to radiation during an MRI procedure. However, because MRIs use a powerful magnet, the procedure cannot be performed on patients who have metal objects or devices inside their bodies.  These include pacemakers, intracranial aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, implanted drug infusion pumps, neurostimulators, as well as:

• bone-growth stimulators
• certain intrauterine contraceptive devices
• iron-based metal implants
• surgical clips, pins, plates, screws, metal sutures, or wire mesh
• certain prosthetic devices

For the same reason, MRI should also be avoided if your body has any internal metallic objects like bullets or shrapnel.

If contrast dye is used, there is a slight risk of allergic reaction. Notify your physician if you know you’re allergic or sensitive to medications, contrast dye, iodine or shellfish. Other conditions which may be affected by the use of MRI contrast dye include allergies, asthma, anemia, hypotension (low blood pressure), and sickle cell disease.

If you’ve been told you need an MRI, schedule it through any office of Baptist Neurology Group. MRI is one of many diagnostic tools available to the physicians of Baptist Neurology Group.