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MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Services at HCG Oncology

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What is an MRI?

MRI is a noninvasive imaging technique used to obtain high-resolution images of the body's organs and tissues. It comprises radio waves, powerful magnets, and a computer system to develop these images.

MRI scans are particularly useful in obtaining images of soft tissues, such as muscles, the heart, and the brain. This imaging method does not use ionizing radiation, making it safe for repeated use.

The technique allows clinicians to diagnose various conditions, such as stroke, tumors, spinal cord injuries, and joint diseases.

MRI scans are also used to evaluate the physiological status of various organs and assist in detecting conditions that are difficult to diagnose with other imaging techniques.

At HCG, MRI imaging is one of the key offerings by the radiology and imaging department, which comprises highly experienced radiologists and technologists who offer high-quality diagnostic care and support.

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Medical Conditions Diagnosed with MRI at HCG

At HCG, we detect and diagnose the following conditions with MRI imaging:

  1. Head and Neck Cancers: MRI scans allow the evaluation of tumors in various areas, such as the oropharynx, nasopharynx, and larynx.
  2. Brain Tumors: MRI imaging helps neurologists detect and classify various brain tumors based on their location and size. It also helps assess the tumor's effect on surrounding tissues.
  3. Spinal Cord Tumors: MRI provides detailed images of the spinal cord and helps in diagnosing neurological compression and spinal involvement.
  4. Breast Cancer: MRI scans also aid in detecting lesions that go undetected during mammograms, particularly in high-risk patients or patients with dense breast tissue.
  5. Prostate Cancer: MRI imaging helps in detecting, staging, and localizing prostate cancer. It ensures early treatment and improved outcomes.
  6. Liver and Abdominal Cancer: Gastroenterologists and oncologists identify the lesions in the gastrointestinal system and liver and assess the local spread or metastasis by viewing the MRI results.
  7. Other Diseases: The other diseases that can be diagnosed with MRI imaging are pelvic cancer and sarcoma of the bone and soft tissue.

When and Why is an MRI Scan Recommended?

MRI imaging is predominantly recommended to examine the soft tissues, internal organs, and blood vessels in the body. The following are some of the important applications of MRI imaging:

  1. Neurological Symptoms: Patients experiencing neurological symptoms may undergo an MRI scan for the diagnosis of seizures, brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.
  2. Joint and Musculoskeletal Problems: Doctors may advise patients to undergo an MRI scan to detect cartilage damage, ligament injuries, and soft tissue abnormalities.
  3. Cancer Diagnosis and Staging: MRI imaging is a useful tool in the diagnosis and staging of various cancers, such as cancer of the prostate, liver, breast, and pelvic region, along with brain tumors.
  4. Monitoring Treatment Response: MRI imaging can help in monitoring treatment response and relapse evaluation in cancer patients.
  5. Unexplained Symptoms: MRI may help detect the diseases in patients with unexplained symptoms, especially of the joints, back, and abdomen (when other tests are inconclusive).
  6. Planning Surgery: An MRI scan may be done before surgery to view the anatomical structure of the target site. This is crucial to choosing the appropriate surgical procedure, reducing tissue damage, and preventing potential complications.

MRI scans are advised in cases where detailed, high-quality, and contrast images are required for making clinical decisions.

An MRI scan is a safe, noninvasive, and highly effective imaging technique that allows for accurate diagnosis of a wide range of health conditions.

Types of MRI Scan

The following are the different types of MRI procedures.

  1. Conventional MRI: It is a standard scan comprising a tunnel-like machine. The conventional MRI scan provides high-resolution, static images.
  2. Contrast-enhanced MRI: This scan involves injecting a contrast agent, such as gadolinium, to improve the visibility of tumors or blood vessels.
  3. Functional MRI: This scan evaluates real-time brain activity by assessing changes in blood flow.
  4. Magnetic Resonance Venography: This imaging technique focuses on venous abnormalities, such as deep vein thrombosis.
  5. Magnetic Resonance Angiography: This technique is used to diagnose conditions related to arteries and veins, such as blockages, aneurysms, and vascular malformations.

What is the Procedure for an MRI scan?

The radiologist advises the patients to lie on a flat, movable table during the MRI scan. The table then slides into the tunnel-shaped machine. The radiologist positions the area to be scanned in the center of the scanner.

The scanner takes the images and transmits them to the computer. During the scan, the machine may make loud thudding, clicking, or banging sounds that can cause discomfort to patients, and therefore, they may be provided with earplugs or headphones to prevent damage to hearing. In some cases, the clinician may also inject the contrast agent.

What to Know Before Getting an MRI Scan?

Patients undergoing an MRI scan should inform the doctor beforehand about any pacemakers, metal implants, or other medical devices, as these may interfere with the imaging. The patient should remove all metal objects, such as watches, hearing aids, and jewelry, before undergoing an MRI scan.

The patient should also ask about the fasting protocol, as contrast MRI might sometimes require fasting.

The doctor may advise the patients to wear comfortable clothes. Inform the radiologists about allergies, pregnancy, and claustrophobia.

Although the MRI scan is non-invasive, the machine may make loud noises during the scan, and patients may be provided with headphones or earplugs. The patients should remain still during the scan to ensure obtaining high-quality images.

Why Choose HCG for MRI Services?

HCG, a leading hospital for cancer treatment in India, offers comprehensive oncology services, including advanced MRI services for diagnosis and treatment planning in patients with various diseases. The radiology team at HCG comprises state-of-the-art machines and expert MRI specialists. The presence of high-quality, advanced imaging systems ensures accurate diagnosis and improved overall outcomes. Across the network, we have high-end MRI platforms, including Skyra 3T MRI and Siemens MAGNETOM Vida 3T MRI, and more.

Conclusion

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a safe and noninvasive imaging technique used to diagnose various diseases, such as cancer, stroke, joint abnormalities, and brain disorders. The types of MRI include conventional, functional, and contrast MRI techniques. MRI is a highly recommended imaging technique for analyzing soft tissues in the body. It may or may not be combined with other imaging tests for comprehensive analysis. The superior-quality diagnostic support offered by MRI scans plays a significant role in the effective management of a wide range of health conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an MRI scan used for?

MRI scans are an imaging technique used to obtain high-quality, clear, and detailed images of the internal organs. They assist in diagnosing various conditions, such as tumors, joint diseases, and brain disorders.

MRI scans are safe and non-invasive. Unlike CT scans, they do not involve the use of ionizing radiation. However, as they involve powerful magnets, patients are advised to remove metal objects. Some patients may experience allergic reactions to dyes.

You will be asked to wear comfortable clothes and remove all metal objects/accessories. You should also inform the MRI imaging specialist if you are pregnant or have a history of allergy or claustrophobia. Additionally, you must adhere to the fasting and medication-related instructions given by the radiology team.

Completing MRI imaging takes about 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the area under examination and whether the scan requires contrast dye.

A doctor's referral is usually required for an MRI imaging, as the doctor recommends it after comprehensively evaluating the patient and assessing them with other tests.

HCG also offers second opinion services, which allow patients to consult with doctors regarding the need for an MRI scan.

Patients should inform the radiologists beforehand if they have a history of claustrophobia. MRI scans may be performed in such patients under sedation. Other techniques to manage MRI-related anxiety include listening to music, guided imagery, and mindful breathing.

Although both the MRI and CT scans are done to evaluate the body's internal structures, MRI scans use magnetic fields and radio waves to create images, while CT scans use X-rays.

Patients with implanted devices, such as defibrillators, pacemakers, or metal implants, should avoid MRI scans as these may interfere with the procedure. Pregnant women should always consult their doctors before undergoing MRI scans.

Contrast agents used during MRI may cause mild side effects, including nausea, headache, and dizziness. In rare cases, patients may have allergic reactions or nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.