Magnetic Resonance Magnetic Resonance MRI/MRI

1. What is an MRI scan?

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a highly effective diagnostic test that allows doctors to examine various organs, blood vessels, tissues, and other structures in detail. It also helps clarify diagnoses, as it does not involve X-rays.

2. Modern equipment: Phillips Ingenia Ambition 1.5 T

The MRI machine at Elytis Hospital is state-of-the-art and unique in the Moldova region. The Philips Ingenia Ambition 1.5 T is a cutting-edge magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine. The Ingenia Ambition features the revolutionary BlueSeal magnet cooling technology, which uses just 7 liters of helium, compared to the more than 1,500 liters used in conventional systems. The 7 liters of helium are fully encapsulated, eliminating the need for helium refills throughout the system’s entire operational life. Thus, Ingenia Ambition is the world’s first MRI system to eliminate the possibility of lengthy and costly operational downtime, as well as dependence on a resource whose supply is unpredictable.

3. What Every Patient Should Know Before an MRI Scan

An MRI scan is painless; the only issue is discomfort for people with claustrophobia. However, no matter how anxious you are, with the help of the radiologist and the open MRI machine, you can easily get through it.

• An MRI scan is one of the safest, because it does not use X-rays.
• Before an MRI exam, the presence of metal in the body is checked: prostheses, rods, stents, intrauterine devices, coated screws, cardiac pacemakers, and dental braces. For any metal, a doctor’s note is required stating that it is compatible with a 1.5 T MRI.
• We recommend that you arrive without any jewelry, piercings, hairpins, clips, or other metal accessories.
• It is recommended that you avoid using hair gel, hairspray, or makeup on the day of the examination.

4. Preparing for an MRI scan

• For an MRI with contrast, serum urea and creatinine test results are required, and these must not be more than 30 days old.
• For an MRI with contrast dye, the patient must NOT eat for 4 hours before the exam, but may drink liquids (water, tea).
• Medication will be administered regardless of the type of examination (MRI with or without contrast).
• Patients who are allergic and are undergoing an MRI with contrast dye must present an allergist’s clearance for the contrast dye and take an antihistamine at least 2 hours before the examination.
• For patients undergoing an MRI of the abdomen or pelvis, it is recommended to take No-Spa 2 hours before the procedure.
• For pelvic and abdominal MRI scans, bowel preparation is performed one day in advance; ideally, this should be discussed beforehand with the doctor who ordered the scan. Patients with diabetes should consult their endocrinologist for additional guidance on taking their medication or insulin, depending on the new regimen.
• It is recommended that the patient arrive 20–30 minutes before the test.
• Women
  • They must not be pregnant; if there are delays in the menstrual cycle, a pregnancy test is recommended before deciding to proceed with imaging.
  • If a woman is breastfeeding, it is recommended that she stop breastfeeding for 24 hours after undergoing an MRI scan, if contrast dye is used.
• People with claustrophobia should be aware that an MRI scan is a lengthy, noisy procedure during which they will have to lie completely still. During the scan, they will hear various noises, ranging from loud to soft, similar to the sound of a hammer.
• There will also be an alarm button to be used in case the patient feels unwell or can no longer tolerate being in the machine.
• People weighing up to 140 kg can undergo an MRI scan.

5. Required Documents

• On the day of the examination, the patient should go to the hospital reception desk with the following documents:
• Identification document;
• copies of all medical documents related to the period under investigation;
• medical letter;
• medical history (if applicable);
• referral form or medical referral;
• Health card;
• Blood tests: serum urea and creatinine (if applicable).

6. Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I talk during the exam?

Although you should not move, you will be able to communicate with the radiologist during the exam. You can ask questions and also answer any questions the radiologist asks you.

• Can someone accompany me to the room where the examination is taking place?

Yes, although each person must be screened before entering the room (there must be no metal on or inside the body).

• Can I keep my eyes open?

There is no rule against this, but it is recommended that people who are afraid keep their eyes closed and think about something that calms them down.

• How long will it take to get the results?

The results of the investigation will be ready in 72 hours.