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MRI is a convenient and
safe diagnostic procedure for most patients.
During the scan, the patient experiences no physical
sensations. There is only a knocking sound made by
the gradients switching.
MRI is easy to operate like CT, but MRI does not utilize
any form of ionizing radiation. The fact that
there are no side of after effects associated with MRI
further enhances its clinical acceptance. MRI can
eliminate the need for other expensive or complicated
diagnostic procedures.
However, contraindication exist for some patients.
The field in or near the magnet may fatally interfere
with the operation of devices such as cardiac
pacemakers. The static magnetic field may move or
dislodge ferromagnetic materials within the body,
such as intracranial aneurysm clips, which could |
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cause life-threatening situations. Patients with the following
should avoid MRI scans: |
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- Electromechanical Aids, including cochlear implants
and
spinal stimulator (Tens-unit)
- Inferior Vena Cava umbrellas
- Implanted drug infusion devices
- Metal workers (individuals who might have an increased
risk
of intra-ocular metallic objects)
- Sharpnel or bullet wounds |
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New
non-metallic devices are now manufactured which would be safe
in an MRI study. Patients should check with their
physician.
MRI is not generally recommended for pregnant patients, as
safety claims of MR imaging during pregnancy have not yet been
evaluated by the FDA. MR imaging may be used in pregnant
women if other non-ionizing forms of diagnostic imaging are
inadequate or if the examination provides important
information that would otherwise require exposure to ionizing
radiation. |
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