MRI Chest with Contrast - Test, Procedure & Price

Introduction

An MRI Chest with Contrast is an advanced imaging test that provides detailed views of the lungs, heart, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and chest wall. It is commonly recommended when doctors need clearer information than what an X-ray or CT scan can provide. The use of contrast dye improves the visibility of tissues, making it easier to detect infections, tumors, inflammation, and vascular problems.

This guide explains the purpose of the scan, how it works, the cost in 2025, preparation steps, and how you can easily book an appointment near you through CareBox.

What Is MRI Chest with Contrast?

An MRI Chest with Contrast is a magnetic resonance imaging scan focused on the chest area. During the test, a contrast dye called Gadolinium is injected into a vein. This dye helps highlight blood vessels and tissues that may be affected by infection, inflammation, or abnormal growth.

The scan provides sharper and more detailed images than a regular MRI or CT scan, especially for soft tissues. This makes it useful for complex chest conditions that require a deeper level of investigation.

Why Doctors Recommend MRI Chest with Contrast

Doctors may suggest this scan when they need a more detailed evaluation of the chest. Common reasons include:

Tumor Evaluation

• Detecting lung or chest wall tumors

• Understanding tumor size, shape, and spread

• Planning surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy

Infections and Inflammatory Conditions

• Pneumonia complications

• Tuberculosis

• Pulmonary infections

• Abscess formation

Heart and Mediastinal Conditions

• Congenital heart issues

• Pericarditis

• Mediastinal masses

• Lymph node enlargement

Vascular Problems

• Aortic aneurysm

• Aortic dissection

• Pulmonary artery abnormalities

• Blood vessel narrowing or blockage

Chest Wall Abnormalities

• Muscle injuries

• Soft tissue disorders

• Rib or sternum issues

• Post-trauma evaluation

MRI Chest with Contrast is particularly helpful when CT scan results are unclear or when avoiding radiation exposure is a priority.

MRI Chest with Contrast vs CT Chest

Both scans are useful, but they serve different purposes. Here is a simple comparison:

MRI Chest with Contrast is typically preferred when doctors need highly detailed images of soft tissues or when radiation must be avoided.

How MRI Chest with Contrast Works

An MRI machine uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create internal images of the body. When the contrast dye is injected, it highlights areas with abnormal blood flow, such as tumors, infections, or inflammation. This helps radiologists identify problems more accurately and at earlier stages.

The scan is completely safe for most patients and does not use any form of radiation.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Before the Scan

You may be asked to:

• Avoid food for a few hours

• Remove jewelry, metal objects, or accessories

• Inform the technician about implants, pacemakers, or metal clips

• Share details about kidney problems or past contrast reactions

• Wear comfortable clothing

2. During the Scan

• You will lie on the MRI table.

• A small cannula will be inserted into your arm for the contrast injection.

• The table slides into the MRI machine.

• You will hear loud tapping or knocking noises; earplugs or headphones are provided.

• It is important to stay still for clear images.

• The scan usually takes 25 to 40 minutes.

3. After the Scan

• You can return to your normal routine immediately.

• Drinking extra water can help flush the contrast dye from your body.

• The results are usually available within a few hours, depending on the centre.

Is the Scan Safe?

An MRI Chest with Contrast is considered safe for most people. Gadolinium-based contrast is generally well tolerated and has a very low risk of allergic reaction.

However, the scan may not be suitable for:

• Patients with certain types of pacemakers

• People with severe kidney disease

• Pregnant women (only when absolutely necessary)

• Individuals with metal implants that are not MRI-safe

If you have claustrophobia, mild sedation can be arranged.

What the Report Shows

Your MRI Chest with Contrast report may include information about:

• Tumor presence, size, and spread

• Infections or inflammatory changes

• Chest wall abnormalities

• Enlarged lymph nodes

• Pericardial or mediastinal disorders

• Abnormal blood vessels

• Muscle or soft tissue injuries

• Fluid collections

The radiologist’s findings help your doctor decide the next steps, including treatment options or further tests.

MRI Chest with Contrast Cost in Delhi, India

The cost of an MRI Chest with Contrast is approx. Rs. 6000 to 12000. It may varies based on the type of machine, centre accreditation, and whether cardiac sequences are included.

The price may be slightly higher at premium centres with advanced 3T MRI machines or specialised thoracic radiologists.

CareBox helps you compare prices from trusted diagnostic centres so that you can choose the option that fits your budget without compromising on quality.

MRI Chest with Contrast Scan in Delhi

Delhi has several advanced MRI centres, but finding a reliable diagnostic facility with transparent pricing is often challenging. CareBox helps you book MRI Chest with Contrast Scans at well-established centres in areas such as:

• Rohini

• Pitampura

• Dwarka

• Lajpat Nagar

• Connaught Place

• Noida and Gurugram (NCR)

Our partner centres use 1.5T and 3T MRI machines and provide same-day appointments along with fast reporting.

MRI Chest with Contrast Near Me – Easy Booking with CareBox

CareBox makes it simple to find and schedule the scan near your location. You can:

• Search for the test in your city

• Compare prices across different centres

• Select a time slot that suits your schedule

• Receive directions and confirmation instantly

• Get digital reports sent to your phone

Our team also assists with any questions regarding preparation, suitability, or additional tests recommended by your doctor.

How to Prepare for the Test

Here are a few preparation steps that help ensure accurate results:

• Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers or buttons

• Bring previous CT, MRI, or X-ray reports for comparison

• Inform the centre if you have kidney issues

• Mention all medications you take

• Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment

Fasting is not always required, but some centres prefer a 4 to 6 hour fasting window.

After the Scan

Most patients can go home immediately. You may drink more water for the next few hours to help remove the contrast dye. If you received sedation, you will need someone to accompany you home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an MRI Chest with Contrast?

It is an MRI scan of the chest performed using contrast dye to provide enhanced, detailed images of the internal organs and blood vessels.

Is the scan painful?

No. The scan is painless, except for a small needle prick for the contrast injection.

How long does it take?

Generally 25 to 40 minutes.

Can I get this scan near my location?

Yes. You can find an MRI Chest with Contrast near you using the CareBox platform.

Is the contrast dye safe?

Gadolinium-based contrast is considered safe for most people and has a low risk of side effects.

When will I get the report?

Most centres deliver reports within 6 to 12 hours, depending on the workload and emergency requirements.

Why Choose CareBox

• Partnered with accredited diagnostic centres

• Advanced MRI technology (1.5T and 3T machines)

• Transparent pricing

• Easy online appointment booking

• Experienced thoracic radiologists

• Fast, digital reports

• Support for any queries before and after the test

CareBox is committed to making diagnostic services easier, more affordable, and more reliable for every patient.

Conclusion

An MRI Chest with Contrast is a highly detailed imaging test used to diagnose a wide range of chest-related conditions. It provides valuable information about soft tissues, blood vessels, infections, tumors, and structural abnormalities. Whether your doctor recommended it for a specific concern or as part of a detailed evaluation, the test is safe, accurate, and extremely informative.

If you need help finding a centre, comparing costs, or booking an appointment, CareBox makes the entire process convenient and trustworthy.