MRI SCREENING

MRI Screening Overview

Introduction 

A powerful tool in the modern world of medicine is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) screening. An advancement in technology, it provides non-invasive early diagnosis of disorders. It utilizes strong magnetic fields and radio frequency energy to create detailed images of the internal organs, tissues, and structures within the body, rendering it effective for preventive health evaluations, as well as early-stage assessments. 

What is MRI Screening? 

An MRI screening is a preventive imaging examination at high resolution designed to discover probable health disorders prior to showing any symptoms. Compared to an MRI which is focused on a certain part of the body, an MRI screening could either be regional or full body, depending on the individual’s risk factors and medical history. 

Types of MRI Screening 

• Full-Body MRI: Detailed MRI scan of important organs and structures.  
• Brain MRI Screening: Identifying strokes, degenerative diseases, and tumours.  
• Cardiac MRI Screening: Concentrates on functions of the heart and blood vessels. 
• MRI of the Musculoskeletal System: Looks for signs of joint, bone, or soft tissue disorders 
• Screening MRI of the Abdomen: Evaluates the status of the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and other abdominal organs 

List of Parameters Considered During MRI Screening

• Abnormal swelling or lesions of tumour nature 
• Vascular and circulatory system changes 
• Function and structure of the organs involved 
• Musculoskeletal and soft tissue changes 
• Inflammatory, infectious, or degenerative changes 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Screening

• Preventive health examinations 
• Early detection of serious illnesses 
• Surveillance of chronic diseases 
• Elucidation of certain clinical signs of unknown origin 
• Evaluation of asymptomatic patients with potential risk factors 

When and Who Needs an MRI Screening? 

Indications: 

• Patients with a family tree that carries a history of cancer, stroke, and other neurological disorders  
• Patients with symptoms that lack concrete reasons and exploring further for deeper understanding.  
• Athletes and physically active people susceptible to musculoskeletal injuries  
• Scheduled general health examinations for patients of extreme risk (for example, chronic illness sufferers and smokers)  
• Monitoring after treatment or evaluation before surgery 

Patient Demographics: 

• Advanced age individuals with mid age who actively look for early signs of developing something.  
• Patients who have high chances for chances of developing certain medical conditions because of family history.  
• Those who live in or work in environments that pose a risk.  
• Lifestyle patients who pose themselves at risk for many conditions like obesity and smoking. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Patients’ safety, since it does not involve incisions or radiation exposure 
• Great precision in identifying abnormalities 
• Facilitates the provision of medical assistance in a timely manner when diagnosis is made early 
• Comprehensive assessment of an individual’s health 
• Minimization of diagnostic tests that patients must undergo 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Screening

Brain tumours, aneurysms, cerebrovascular accidents 

• Diseases of the spine, herniated intervertebral discs, degenerative changes 
• Cardiovascular diseases, including arterial obstructions and heart defects 
• Diseases of the liver, renal cysts, and tumours located in the abdominal cavity 
• Musculoskeletal disorders and soft tissue injuries 

Preparing for MRI Screening

• Choose loose-fitting garments 
• Take off all metal accessories 
• Remove any electronic devices 
• Advise the technician of implants, pregnancy, or other medical issues 
• Specific fasting requirements may be needed prior to some MRI scans (eg: abdominal MRI) 

Pre-requisites 

• No history of contrast allergy (if MRI with contrast is needed)  
• Anti-anxiety or anti-claustrophobic meds if needed 

Best Time of MRI Screening 

• Based on individual doctor’s orders 
• Pre-planned far enough to ensure preparedness and availability 

Eligibility 

• Generally, all patients can undergo MRI safely except those with underlying metal implants or pacemakers 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Screening 

• Participant gets positioned on the MRI table comfortably 
• A coil may be positioned around the area of interest for optimization of imaging 
• Pictures are taken of the patient using the MRI machine which utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves.  
• This process lasts approximately 30-90 minutes, depending on the type of screening done. 
• If necessary, contrast will be injected to improve the clarity of pictures taken. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Make sure to tell the radiologist each of metal implants, pregnancy, or kidney disorders. 
• It’s crucial to remain motionless throughout the scan to ensure the quality of the images. 
• Discuss any medical issues beforehand with the doctor.