MRI SCAN OF TOUNGE

An MRI of the tongue is an imaging test that is performed without touching the patient (non-invasive). It utilizes magnets and radio waves to create images of the tongue, floor of the mouth, adjacent soft tissues, lymph nodes, and structures within the oral cavity. It is particularly useful in assessing lesions, tumours, infections, or structural abnormalities of the tongue and the nearby regions. What is a Tongue MRI Scan? 

MRI employs a powerful magnet and radiofrequency waves to produce high-quality detailed pictures of the tongue, the soft tissues of the mouth, oropharynx, and lymph nodes, as well as areas around them. MRI excels in visualizing soft tissue differences, or contrast. For this reason, it is preferred over a CT scan (computed tomography) for this area.

The MRI usually consists of: 

• T1 weighted images (anatomy detail) 
• T2 weighted images (inflammation and fluid) 
• Fat-suppressed sequences for tumour boundaries 
• Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) (cellularity of tumour) 
• Post contrast T1 (if contrast is used, the check imaging done after the contrast is injected) 

• Determine the location and size of tongue tumours/cysts  
• Assess the degree of cancer or its regional spread 
• Detect relapse after treatment 
• Assist with planning surgical or radiation therapies  
• Diagnose for infection, inflammation or trauma 

Benefits of an MRI of Tongue Scan

• Soft tissues are scanned with excellent contrast.  
• The scan is non-invasive and free of radiation.  
• Small and less visible lesions are detectable.  
• Important in cancer staging and follow-up.  
• Detailed examination of lymph nodes and surrounding structures.

Conditions Diagnosed with a Tongue MRI Radiology Scan

• Tongue cancer Frequently located on the lateral tongue; MRI is useful for staging. 
• Benign tongue tumours Such as haemangioma or neurofibroma. 
• Cysts and mucoceles A collection of fluid and other benign lesions. 
• Glossitis and abscesses Due to inflammatory or infectious agent. 
• Post-traumatic changes Due to trauma or scarring burns. 
• Lymph node involvement Metastatic malignancy to the regional lymph nodes. 

• Do not bring dentures, hearing aids and metal jewellery  
• Tell the technician about the metal implants, pacemakers or surgeries.  
• No special fasting requirements.  
• Depending on the confined clinical suspicion, contrast could be required. 

Pre-requisites for a Tongue MRI Scan 

• A prescription of a doctor or referral is needed.  
• Relevant medical and dental history.  
• Records of previous biopsy or treatment undertaken.  
• If an MRI with contrast is planned, blood work is needed. 

Best Time to Perform a Tongue MRI Radiology Scan 

• Alongside persistent symptoms or abnormal findings of the tongue. 
• In advance of surgery or biopsy for preparation 
• Evaluation for follow-up treatment or assessment for recurrence 

Eligibility for an MRI Tongue Scan 

• Easy to perform on most patients 
• Not best suited for patients with non-MRI compatible prosthetics 
• Use restraint on pregnant women unless necessary 

What Happens During the Tongue MRI Scan Procedure 

• Patient is placed in a supine position on the MRI table 
• Surface coil positions the head and neck comfortably 
• 30–40-minute duration for scanning is estimated 
• If needed, may inject Contrast 
• Patient is advised to not move; breath is unrestricted 

Caution for the Tongue MRI Test 

• Patients may need sedative for possible claustrophobia 
• Patients with severe kidney dysfunction should avoid Gadolinium-based contrast due to kidney failure 
• Braces or metal dental work may create artifacts