Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced diagnostic imaging technique that uses a magnetic field to obtain images of any body part
This diagnostic method does not use ionizing radiation; its capacity of being obtained in various pans and its high level of contrast make it a fundamental tool in medical diagnosis.
MRI is a painless and non-invasive test. Although the use of magnetic fields does not entail any demonstrated risk for the patient, it is important to consider all situations in which its use is contraindicated.
Risks
In order to perform a MRI, the patient will enter into a powerful magnet that generates a magnetic field in the entire examination room, and therefore you cannot access it with any metallic object.
You must always inform our medical personnel of any metallic object that you may be a carrier of (shrapnel, lead, implants, prostheses, etc.)
Implants
Patients with metal implants, pacemakers, valves, defibrillators, insulin pumps or ear implants should never be exposed to the magnetic field of resonance. For bone implants it is necessary that the patient is aware of their implant’s material or provides a report from their surgeon, confirming the compatibility of the implant with the resonance.
Contrast
In patients with renal insufficiency the administration of contrast is subject to close medical supervision. It is recommended to provide us an analysis of renal function for evaluation by our doctors. The contrast should not be administered to patients with a history of allergic reaction to gadolinium.
Noise
During the test, the patient will perceive a loud and constant noise, with variations in rhythm. Soundproof headphones are provided, in order to minimize the effects of the noise. Patients can also use earplugs, as long as it is under the express authorization of the technician.
Claustrofobia
Due to its characteristics, the machine could create a sensation of uncomfortable narrowness for those who suffer claustrophobia. For your comfort, you should know that you have a button that you can press to contact the technician who performs the scan at any moment.
Frequent questions
Can I get out of the machine at any time?
In order to be able to make the diagnosis it is necessary to finish the study. However, if you feel an indisposition or you cannot hold anymore inside the machine, you must inform the technician through the button and he will be the one who helps you out.
I have an implant but I don’t know what material it is made of
By protocol, we do not perform magnetic resonances to patients with implants without knowing beforehand their characteristics. The patient should understand that these precautions are aimed at avoiding any risk that could cause harm. The consequences of introducing an implant incompatible with resonance in the magnetic field could be, from very mild to very serious. The patient has the responsibility of communicating to the healthcare staff if he or she has an implant and if it is compatible with the Magnetic Resonance. If you have doubts about it, please go back to the hospital where you had surgery and request a discharge report from your surgeon stating the type of implant you have.
Can I take any painkiller before entering the machine?
Yes, it is not contraindicated. If you think you are not going to endure the test, you can take a painkiller an hour or half an hour before the scan.
Can any family member enter with me in the machine?
It is not permitted for any other person to enter with the patient, since any movement of the companion can alter the magnetic field and interfere with the result of the image. In very specific and isolated cases, the possibility of letting a companion enter (for example, in the case of children) will be assessed.
Can I have an MRI without a prescription?
As for all diagnostic imaging tests, we recommend that the patient should always take the test within the context of a clinical follow-up that justifies its completion. Thus, the diagnosis will be faster and the discomfort for the patient will be minor. Your doctor will be the person who determines which test is to be taken and if you need it contrast or not.
High tech equipment
At Marti-Torres Clinic we have four high-field MRI equipment.
High Field Magnetic Resonances (1.5T).
Málaga’s Center
We have two teams in our clinic in Málaga’s Center, where we can perform the following tests:
Simple resonances:
– In any location, with and without contrast.
Vascular Resonances:
– Angioresonance of aorta
– Supra-aortic trunks
– Circle of Willis
– Lower limbs
– Upper limbs
Special Resonances:
– Cardiac resonance with anatomical and functional assessment and feasibility study
– Multi-parametric prostate resonance with spectrum and diffusion
– Functional/spectrum/ diffusion brain resonance
– Full body resonance with metastasis study
– Breast biopsy guided by magnetic resonance
High Field Digital Magnetic Resonance (1.5T).
Vélez Málaga
It is a newly acquired device with the latest clinical applications. It is a digital magnetic resonance by optical fiber that performs high resolution studies in all clinical areas. Its design is intended so that the patient feels as comfortable as possible during the examination.
It is a newly acquired device with the latest clinical applications. It is a digital magnetic resonance by optical fiber that performs high resolution studies in all clinical areas. Its design is intended so that the patient feels as comfortable as possible during the examination.
Simple resonances:
– In any location, with and without contrast.
Vascular Resonances:
– Angioresonance of aorta
– Supra-aortic trunks
– Circle of Willis
– Lower limbs
– Lower limbs
Special Resonances:
– Cardiac resonance with anatomical and functional assessment and feasibility study
– Multi-parametric prostate resonance with spectrum and diffusion
– Functional/spectrum/ diffusion brain resonance
– Full body resonance with metastasis study
– Breast biopsy guided by magnetic resonance
Open Magnetic Resonance of High Field for extremities.
Palacio de Deportes
It is a completely open and unique machine on the market, that allows the realization of High Field Magnetic Resonances (1.5T) of limbs (feet, ankles, hands, elbows and knees). Moreover, the patient should only introduce the limb to study in the magnet, while sitting comfortably in an armchair.
We have this equipment in our Palacio de Deportes Martín Carpena center, where we can study in a simple way and with all the guarantees the osteoarticular and muscular injuries that are frequent both in athletes and among the rest of the population.
The 3T Center for Medical-Health Research Resonance Agreement (CIMES)
In collaboration with the Center for Medical-Health Research (CIMES), we are able to offer our patients the possibility of performing 3T High-Field Magnetic Resonance studies in their facilities, with all the advantages that such an equipment entails, both at level of achievement as well as for reconstruction of images.
For more information, contact us through our website or by phone.