MRI CHEST

MRI Chest Scan Overview

Introduction 

MRI Chest provides images of the lungs, heart, mediastinum, chest wall, and lungs with detail. It is a non-invasive imaging method, so no radiation is used during the procedure. chest MRI scan is used primarily when soft tissue imaging is critical or when CT scans cannot be performed. Examples of such patients are those with contrast allergies or children who will need intermittent imaging over time. 

What is Chest MRI Scan? 

MRI incorporates the use of powerful magnets and radio waves to create images, so there is no feeling of loss of tissue in MRI Chest. Tissue details and structures are better evaluated with MRI than CT, as they can be done without radiation exposure, including dynamic evaluations like moving imaging—or cine MRI—which enables checking solid structures like the diaphragm and the heart for movement over durations.

Parameters Considered During Chest MRI Test

• T1- and T2-weighted images 
• STIR (for Edema/inflammation) 
• Motion studies 
• Contrast-enhanced sequences (if indicated) 
• Dynamic and motion analysis cine sequences 
• Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) for evaluating tumours  

Reasons for a Chest MRI Scan

• Evaluation of soft tissue lesions  
• For mass characterization following inconclusive CT results 
• View mediastinal and chest wall pathology on imaging 
• Evaluate invasiveness of thoracic tumours with respect to neighbouring structures 
• Monitor after-treatment follow-ups  

When and Who Needs a Chest MRI Test? 

Indications for Chest MRI Test: 

* Characterization of indeterminate chest masses 

* Suspected chest wall or mediastinal tumours 

* Differentiation between benign and malignant lesions 

* Evaluation of thoracic outlet syndrome 

* Assessment of congenital abnormalities 

* Follow-up in patients where radiation is a concern 

Patient Demographics: 

• Young patients or children (to decrease radiation exposure)  
• Individuals suffering from iodinated contrast allergies  
• Patients with soft tissue abnormalities within the chest cavity  
• Individuals suffering from chronic pleural or chest wall conditions  

Benefits of a Chest MRI Scan

• Optimal imaging of soft tissue 
• Absence of destructive radiation 
• Functional assessment modalities such as assessment of motion and perfusion 
• Safer alternative to iodinated contrast is gadolinium 

Conditions Diagnosed with Chest MRI Test

• Tumours or tumour metastases of the chest wall 
• Lymphadenopathy or mediastinal masses 
• Pancoast tumours 
• Thoracic outlet syndrome 
• Thickened pleura or pleural effusion 
• Dysfunctional diaphragm 
• Anomalies of the great vessels or aorta and thoracic aortic disease  

Preparation for Chest MRI Test

• Do not eat 4 to 6 hours prior to the appointment if contrast injection is needed 
• Take off metallic objects including bras with an underwire and jewellery 
• If you possess any implants, pacemakers or previous heart surgeries notify the technician 
• To ensure timely examination, arrive on time to fill in consent and screening documents  

Pre-requisites for Chest MRI Scan 

• Evaluate renal functions if contrast agent is planned 
• Provide detailed clinical background alongside past imaging (CT, PET-CT, X-RAY) 
• Assess safety for patients with pacemakers or metal implants 

Best time for a Chest MRI Scan 

• If CT scans cannot provide clear lesion characterization 
• When surgical plans require detailed images of surrounding tissues  
• When multiple non-contrast scans are required such as tumour surveillance to limit radiation exposure 

Eligibility for Chest MRI Test 

• All age groups as MRI are considered safe for all (no age limit) 
• Patients with MRI-incompatible implants cannot be scanned. 
• Use caution in patients with severe claustrophobia or renal dysfunction (if contrast is used).  

Chest MRI Test Procedure 

• To position the patient place them supine on the MRI scanner. 
• Coils are positioned over the chest for optimal imaging.  
• Sequences are done with or without contrast based on the indication.  
• Specific intervals of breath may be needed for some sequences.  
• Total scan time is 30 to 60 minutes. 

Precaution to Follow During a Chest MRI Scan 

• Patients must follow commands and remain still during breath holding. 
• Some subjects may require sedation, including anxious patients and children.  
• Limited parenchyma detail that can be visualized and should not be deemed as a substitute for CT in pulmonary examined cases.