MRI BRAIN
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6 hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
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About The Test
What is an MRI Brain?
An MRI Brain (Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the brain) is a painless, radiation-free test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of brain structures, nerves, and blood vessels.
How MRI Brain Differs from Head MRI
- MRI Brain focuses only on the brain tissue and surrounding cerebrospinal fluid.
- Head MRI includes the skull, facial bones, sinuses, and soft tissues of the head.
Doctors order an MRI Brain when symptoms point to neurological issues inside the skull.
List of Parameters
- Brain anatomy: ventricles, sulci, midline shift
- Signal intensities: normal vs abnormal brightness
- Lesion characteristics: size, border, enhancement pattern
Why This Test
Diagnostic
Confirm or rule out stroke, tumor, infection.
Monitoring
Track multiple-sclerosis flare-ups or post-chemo changes.
Pre-surgical Planning
Map tumor proximity to motor or speech areas.
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking a Brain MRI
- High-resolution imaging: up to 1 mm slices
- Non-invasive: no needles unless contrast is needed
- No radiation: safe for children and repeat follow-ups
Illnesses Diagnosed with an MRI Brain Scan
Stroke – DWI sequence spots clots early.
Brain Tumors – contrast shows exact size and spread.
Multiple Sclerosis – FLAIR reveals white-matter plaques.
Infections – meningo-encephalitis, abscess.
Traumatic Injury – micro-bleeds, shear injuries.
Preparing for test
Pre-requisites
- Bring doctor’s prescription and old films/CDs.
- Fill metal-screening form.
- Remove jewellery, hearing aids, piercings.
Best Time to Take the MRI Brain
Morning slots reduce wait times and fasting is unnecessary unless sedation is planned.
Eligibility
- Adults & children >3 years (younger kids receive mild sedation).
- Pregnancy: 1st trimester deferred unless urgent; 2nd & 3rd trimester safe without contrast.
Procedure for Taking an MRI Brain
Step-by-Step Guide
- Change into cotton gown.
- Lie on motorized table; head in dedicated brain coil.
- Ear-plugs & emergency buzzer provided.
- Scan lasts 15–25 min; hold still.
- Contrast injected via IV if ordered.
- Table slides out; you dress and leave.
What to Expect Inside the Scanner
- Loud knocking sounds (headphones offered).
- Lights stay on; airflow ventilated.
- Technologist talks to you between sequences.
Caution Before Taking the Test
Metal Implants Checklist
Contra-indicated: cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implant, neuro-stimulator.
Conditional: joint screws, dental implants—bring implant card.
Pregnancy Considerations
Notify staff; we skip gadolinium contrast and use lower SAR protocols.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description Example | General Interpretation/Significance Example |
|---|---|---|
| White-matter hyperintensities | Bright spots on FLAIR | Possible MS, micro-vascular disease |
| Mass/Lesion | Focal abnormality with defined size, location, and signal features (e.g., ring-enhancing mass in frontal lobe). | May represent a tumor, abscess, metastasis, or demyelinating plaque. Further imaging, clinical correlation, or biopsy may be needed. |
| Mass with ring enhancement | Thick irregular rim | High-grade tumor or abscess |
| Contrast Enhancement | Area(s) showing increased signal after gadolinium contrast administration. | Suggests breakdown of the blood-brain barrier—common in active tumors, abscesses, demyelination, or subacute strokes. |
| Restricted diffusion | Dark on ADC map | Acute stroke |
| Normal study | Symmetrical ventricles | No abnormality detected |
Risks & Limitations
Safety Concerns
- Magnetic field: Remove all metal objects.
- Claustrophobia: Inform staff; we offer music, mirror glasses, or mild sedation.
- Contrast allergy: Rare (<0.1%); on-site doctor available.
Limitations in Detection
- Very small lesions (<2 mm) may be missed without contrast.
- Calcifications are better seen on CT.
- Patient movement can blur images—our technologists coach you to stay still.
FAQs
How long does an MRI Brain take?
15–25 minutes without contrast; add 5 min if contrast is used.
Is MRI Brain painful?
No. You only feel the IV pinch if contrast is given.
Can I eat before an MRI Brain?
Yes, regular meals are allowed.
What if I am claustrophobic?
We offer wide-bore 70 cm scanner, mirror glasses, music, or oral sedation.
When will I get my MRI Brain results?
Same day by 6 p.m. for routine scans; instantly for emergencies.
Main Difference Between MRI with and Without Contrast
An MRI Brain Scan without contrast provides anatomical detail. An MRI with contrast shows tumors, inflammation, or vascular issues, as contrast enhances visibility.