MRI of the brain

Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain is a modern method of instrumental diagnostics that allows for a detailed assessment of the condition of brain tissues and the detection of changes of various nature. The examination is prescribed to clarify the diagnosis, monitor the course of the disease, or control the results of treatment.

At the medical center “Oxford Medical”, MRI is performed on a GE SIGNA Champion tomograph. The artificial intelligence technology AI Recon DL ensures high detail and stable image quality. To have an MRI of the brain, book an appointment at a convenient time for you.

Brain MRI allows obtaining detailed images of brain tissues and assessing their condition. The examination helps detect structural changes, determine their localization, and extent.

During the examination, it is possible to detect:

• inflammatory processes;
• neoplasms and their boundaries;
• disorders of cerebral circulation;
• consequences of injuries;
• focal or diffuse tissue changes;
• congenital developmental anomalies.

If necessary, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain with contrast may be performed, which allows for a clearer assessment of the nature of neoplasms or the activity of inflammatory changes.

At the same time, it should be noted that MRI is not a universal diagnostic method. In particular, in acute conditions, brain CT may be more informative, as it allows rapid visualization of intracranial hemorrhages or damage to bone structures. In such cases, MRI may be prescribed later for a detailed assessment of the condition of brain tissues and clarification of the nature of the changes.

In diseases of the pituitary gland, it is important to regularly monitor its condition, since even minor changes in the size or activity of the formation may affect hormonal balance and well-being. That is why, in the case of pituitary adenoma, microadenomas, prolactinomas, acromegaly, or Itsenko–Cushing disease, the doctor may recommend a targeted examination — pituitary MRI. Such an examination is carried out for monitoring over time and assessing the effectiveness of treatment.

Brain MRI is considered a safe imaging method; however, in certain cases, its performance may be limited. This is related to the use of a magnetic field, which can affect metallic elements and electronic devices in the body.

The absolute contraindications include:

• the presence of a pacemaker or an implanted cardioverter-defibrillator;
• cochlear implants;
• ferromagnetic vascular clips;
• metal foreign bodies, particularly in the eye area;
• implanted structures whose compatibility with MRI has not been confirmed by the manufacturer.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, MRI is performed only if there are justified indications. A marked claustrophobia or a condition in which the patient cannot remain still during the procedure may also be a limitation.

If an examination with contrast is planned, kidney function is checked in advance using blood tests. In the presence of significant impairments, the administration of a contrast agent may be contraindicated.

Special preparation for a brain MRI without contrast is usually not required. If magnetic resonance imaging of the brain with contrast is planned, a blood test may be prescribed in advance to assess kidney function — with determination of the creatinine level and calculation of the glomerular filtration rate. On the day of the procedure with contrast enhancement, it is usually recommended to refrain from eating for 3–4 hours before the examination.

Before undergoing the examination, it is necessary to inform the doctor about the presence of implants, a pacemaker, prostheses, metal structures, or previous surgeries. This is important for assessing the safety of the procedure.

Immediately before scanning, all metal objects must be removed — jewelry, a watch, glasses, a hearing aid, and other accessories that may interact with the magnetic field.

Before the procedure begins, the patient lies down on the movable table of the tomograph. To obtain clear images, the head is fixed with a special coil and soft pads — this helps maintain stillness during scanning.

After preparation, the table smoothly moves inside the machine, and scanning begins. During the operation of the tomograph, rhythmic sounds are heard — this is a normal feature of the functioning of the equipment. The procedure is painless.

Brain MRI for a child is performed in the presence of one of the parents or a legal representative, which helps the child feel calmer and more confident during the examination.

The duration of the examination usually is 15–25 minutes. If contrast enhancement is used, a series of images is first taken without the agent, after which a contrast substance is administered intravenously and scanning is continued. In such a case, the procedure may last up to 30–40 minutes.

After brain MRI is performed, the interpretation is carried out by a radiologist with a detailed analysis of all the obtained images in different projections and modes. The written report describes the detected changes, their localization, and nature. If no abnormalities are detected, it is indicated that the findings correspond to a variant of the norm. If changes are detected, the doctor describes the possible pathology, its features, and the degree of severity. The results are provided to the patient for further consultation with the doctor who referred them for diagnostics.

The price of the examination depends on the extent of scanning and the need to use a contrast agent. If the procedure is performed without contrast, it has a lower cost. An examination with contrast enhancement involves additional administration of the agent and an extended analysis of the images, so it costs more.

You can ознакомиться with the prices here. To book an examination, contact the call center at the number indicated on the website, or leave a request for a callback.