An MRI, which stands for magnetic resonance imaging, is a diagnostic imaging test that utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves to produce sharp and precise pictures of your body. Most often, MRI scans use the head and neck to evaluate a variety of clinical conditions that may include tumors, infections, or injuries.
If you have been given an appointment for a head and neck MRI scan then you may be feeling anxious. You’ll feel better once you know exactly what happens during an MRI scan. In this blog we will explain the process for head and neck MRI scans.
Preparation for the Scan
There may be specific directions you should follow prior to your MRI. This will almost always involve fasting from food or drink – you will receive direction from your doctor about this. Fasting is important, as food and drink can affect the quality of the image and can also make you uncomfortable if you have a full stomach during the scan.
You will also need to remove all metal items from your person, including jewelry, wristwatches, and hairpins. Metal can interfere with the magnetic field and create poor quality images; therefore, being prepared for the scan is important! Additionally, if you have a pacemaker or other implanted medical devices, it is important that you inform your health provider in advance.
If you feel anxious or claustrophobic, you can request a mild sedative to help calm you during your scan; however, you will need to have someone take you home since sedation may impair your judgment for driving.
The MRI scan procedure
On the day of the scan, when you arrive for the MRI, you’ll be asked to take off your clothes and put on a hospital gown. You’ll lay down on a thin table which then moves into the machine. The machine is a large, tube-like object with a stronger magnetic field than that of the Earth’s, hundreds of times stronger.
During the scan, you will need to be still as motion will blur the images. The machine will make loud thumping sounds and tapping noises, and you will be given earplugs or headphones. You can listen to music or an audiobook, and so you have time to pass if you wanted to.
There may be a time when you will receive an injection of a contrast agent, which is a special type of dye that improves the quality of the images. The contrast agent is generally injected in a vein located in your arm. You may feel a momentary sensation of heat, and/or a metallic taste in your mouth for a few moments and that should subside quickly.
The scan can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 60 minutes, depending on what types of images need to be taken. If you have several scans done, you may need to move around quite a bit in-between scans.
What happens after the neck and head MRI scan?
After completing the scan, you may return to your own clothes and go back to your normal routine. There are no activity restrictions or dietary limitations following the scan, and you will most likely be able to drive home or go back to work straight away.
The scan images will be forwarded to a radiologist, a medical specialist who interprets images. The radiologist will examine the images and forward a report to your doctor. Your doctor will sit down with you and explain the results and decide on the best action to take.
Risks and benefits of neck and head MRI scan
MRI scans are considered safe and non-invasive procedures, and best diagnostic centers in Rohini, Delhi offer discounts on the cost of head and neck MRI’s. Unlike X-rays, Ultrasounds and CT scans, MRI scans do not use ionizing radiation which can be harmful at large doses. There are still certain risks associated with the scan.
One risk is the possibility of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. While rare, individuals can have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye that can range from mild itching and development of hives to serious anaphylaxis.
Another risk is claustrophobia, MRI units are a closed small space and some individuals may feel uncomfortable and anxious during the test. If you are claustrophobic, you can discuss taking a mild sedative with your physician or consider an open MRI.
Despite the possible risk, there are many benefits to having a head and neck MRI scan. The MRI can find a variety of problems including tumors, infections, and injury, which will not show up on other imaging methods such as X-rays or CT scans.
Conclusion
A head and neck MRI is a non-invasive imaging exam, or test, using high-powered magnets and radio waves to create images of your body. This test is safe, and most people tolerate it well, but some may become anxious or uncomfortable during the exam.
If you are having a head and neck MRI scan, it is important to follow your clinician’s instructions for preparation, and to inform them of any medical conditions and/or implanted devices. Knowing what to expect from the exam can help you feel less anxious or worried.
If you have questions or concerns about the scan, you can speak to your provider about them. You can also call carebox at any time if you would like to ask about the head MRI cost. Our partnered diagnostic centres offer head and neck MRI at lowest cost. They can provide you with additional information about the process, including any risks and benefits, and help you decide whether the scan is right for you.
