Magnetic resonance is a very modern examination that does not work on the principle of X-rays, but uses very strong magnetic field. It is a safe examination which can scan a structure of organs into the tiniest details. Unlike other imaging methods in diagnostic radiology, a great advantage of magnetic resonance is much greater accuracy in imaging organs which is the result of different intensity of the signal in different soft tissues. Moreover, this examination is without the possible harmful ionizing radiation.
Although there have not been defined any side effects of magnetic field yet, there are some risk factors that must be taken into account. These include the existence of metal objects in the patient’s body that could cause complications and problems during magnetic resonance examination.
Absolutecontraindication (obstacle) of magnetic resolution examination is:
Methodical paper for MR examination of patients with metal implants
Recommended expert opinion on examining patients with fixed orthodontic appliances MR
Other implants and conditions that can mean some limitations:
It is also crucial whether you are pregnant at the time of the examination. It is necessary to inform the physician about this fact. They will determine, according to the stage of the pregnancy, if the magnetic resonance examination is possible and safe. It can usually be performed until the end of the first trimester (12th week) of pregnancy.
If the patient has fixed orthodontic appliances, it is necessary to consult with their dentist, as this could damage the enamel. Metal dental fillings do not prevent the examination anyhow, but they could possibly cause distortion of the image in the facial or brain area. Inaccuracies of the image could also be caused by metal clasps, or hooks on the underwear, piercing or tattoo if placed on the examined body part.
Please inform the staff of the magnetic resonance about all these facts, or consult them in advance on the phone number +420 534 008 354.
In some cases before the examination the contrast agent is applied to the patient. It helps improve the imaging of the scanned area, highlights the structures in the patient’s body. The contrast agent is applied into the vein (usually on the hand). These substances are relatively safe and any side effects are very rare. The side effects usually are nausea, vomiting, dizziness. An allergic reaction is also exceptional. Still, do inform the MR staff about your allergies.
Before the examination no special preparation is needed. Before the examination you can eat and drink as usual, but both only in such quantities that you will not suffer any shortage or surplus during the examination which would lead to the need to interrupt the the process of examination. The exception is the examination of the abdomen – e-g liver examination and especially biliary tract (MR cholangiography – MRCP) when you should not drink or eat at least 2 hours before the examination.
Just before entering the changing room you can use the restroom.
After arrival to our facility you will be asked to read and sign the instructions (so-called Informed Consent) which contains basic information about the magnetic resonance examination. This consent of the patient confirms that they were acquainted with the risks and side effects of the examination.
You can download the Consent in PDF or 
DOC, it is possible to print it in advance and bring it filled out with you for your examination.
Should there be any questions or queries from your side, please inform the staff about them before the actual examination. You will avoid possible complications this way.
After the MR staff member calls you for the examination, you will be lead to the changing room where you take of your clothes, and jewelery and personal belonging and change into a prepared robe. All your valuable things will remain locked in this changing room during the examination and no one will have access here. The main reason of this measure is that your mobile, watch, credit cards and other things sensitive about magnetic field must be protected, if not completely damaged.
You will lie on a bed that will be inserted into the ring of the device. It is a cylinder with a diameter of 60cm and is 130cm long. The examined are is always in the middle of the ring.
The examination itself is completely painless, the only inconvenience is the loud sound which the device produces during th examination. The staff will for this reason give you headphones with music or you can ask for ear plugs.
For your own safety you will be holding a signaling machine in your hand during the whole examination. It will help you call for the staff and ask for help. The staff will be with you in contact all the time via microphone and will be happy to help if needed.
The length of the examination depends on the area that needs to be imaged. It usually takes about 20 to 50 minutes and throughout this whole period the patient is monitored by the installed cameras.
Although the whole examination takes relatively long, it necessary for the patients to stay still and motionless all the time. This will help obtain the best results.
There are no side effects regarding the magnetic resonance found yet, however, some clients would describe it as “rather challenging”.
If the patient feels well after the examination, does not feel nauseous and did not need any tranquilizer, they can continue with their programme.
If there are any complications (nausea, dizziness, weakness), please inform the MR staff about it, they will be happy to assist you.