Shades of gray that vary from white to black make up an MRI image. When the radiologist injects gadolinium dye into your bloodstream, it illuminates specific tissues and makes them easier to detect and evaluate. The doctor can then use your completed scan to compare the distributions and size of the dark and light areas to evaluate abnormal and normal tissues. Contrast is invaluable when imaging tumors in major body organs like your brain or in your central nervous system.
Most MRI scan contrast agents contain a metal called gadolinium. Doctors commonly use gadolinium in contrast MRI scans due to the way it travels in the magnetic fields. Since then, doctors have been using them to evaluate over million patients all over the world. The contrast agents help doctors identify problem areas on MRIs. Doctors perform MRIs in the U. To begin the scan, the technologist will place a tourniquet around your arm or hand and then use a small butterfly needle or IV to inject the contrast material into your vein.
They may also use an automated injector to administer the contrast medium. The GBCAs attach to other chemicals to keep them from being harmful. Having an MRI with contrast may lead to some side effects and safety concerns, including those below. If this occurs, it could result in a complication known as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis NSF. This condition thickens your skin and your connective tissues throughout your body.
While NSF is rare , it can be a potentially debilitating complication that results from giving patients with poor kidney function GBCAs. Because of this, before receiving contrast for an MRI exam, doctors routinely screen patients for kidney function. Be sure to discuss any fears you may have, such as possible side effects, with your technician or physician. IBJI offers appointments for same day or within 24 hours Monday through Friday, with many office throughout the Chicago area.
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Uses and Advantages Physicians order contrast MRIs for their patients because they do a better job of showing clear images for certain conditions. How to Prepare Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, eat normally and keep taking your medications before your contrast MRI exam. Related Posts. December 21, May 4, March 16, October 31, March 30, The first case identified was in Denmark in and this rare complication is now recognised to exist mainly in conjunction with older generations of MRI contrast now no longer in use , and only in patients with very poor kidney function who are unable to excrete the contrast agent prior to the gadolinium bonds breaking down, allowing unbounded gadolinium to persist within the body.
This screening is not complicated and many centres, including our own, are able to measure kidney function on the spot with a simple pin prick blood test if necessary. Again, whilst a possible side effect has been identified, there are simple ways in which the risk can be avoided so that contrast dye may be used safely in order to reveal crucial information.
We are also able to conduct a simple pin prick test to show your kidney function in the department if necessary. Coronavirus COVID : Although many restrictions applicable in the wider community have been lifted, various safety measures remain in place across all of our sites. This is to protect patients, visitors and staff. For further information, please click on the following link:. COVID information for patients and visitors. For Patients For Health Professionals.
MRI Contrast: Is there a need to worry? Do contrast agents have any side effects?
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