An MRI scan is painless and noninvasive. Doctors use MRI scans to diagnose and monitor head injuries and to check for bnormalities in the head or brain. The length of the procedure varies, depending on the situation.

Head MRI scans are an important tool to indicate changes in tissue, which is vital in assessing many conditions, particularly those affecting the brain.

PURPOSE AND USES OF HEAD MRI SCANS

MRI scans use strong magnetic forces and radio waves to create images which show a higher level of detail than other

imaging techniques, especially in soft tissue. This is important when examining the brain or brain stem for damage or disease.

A doctor may recommend an MRI head scan if they suspect that a person has:
  • a brain tumor

  • a chronic condition that affects the head, such as:

    – multiple sclerosis
    – epilepsy
    – brain hemorrhages or stroke
    – hydrocephalus
    – fluid on the brain and infections in the head or brain

HEAD MRI SCANS WITH CONTRAST VS. NO CONTRAST

Contrast is a magnetic substance which help to improve the image makes tissues and organs stand out on the MRI image. This can illuminate early abnormal tissue growth, including tumors. The majority of MRI scans do not require contrast.

Scans related to the following issues can require contrast include brain metastasis, cranial nerve lesions and infections. Contrast will be given by injection. Contrast travels to organs and tissue through the bloodstream. There is a small chance that a person may have an allergic reaction to contrast materials. Before administering the contrast, a doctor will ask about allergies, current medications, medical history, recent illnesses or operations.

After taking the contrast, a person should monitor for any side effects and report any adverse effects to a healthcare provider.

PREPARATION

First, a healthcare professional will ask a series of questions about a person’s medical history.

If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, please inform the staff/nurse/radiographer before the procedure.

Any metallic objects, such as piercings, metal plates, watches, or jewelry MUST be removed before entering the scanner. These can interfere with the scan. Other metallic objects that can interfere with a scan include pacemaker, brain aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, dental fillings and bridges, metallic fragments in the eyes or blood vessels, metal plates, wires, screws, or rods and surgical clips or staples.

First, a healthcare professional will ask a series of questions about a person’s medical history.

Radiographers also need to know if a woman is pregnant.

Any metallic objects, such as piercings, metal plates, watches, or jewelry MUST be removed before entering the scanner. These can interfere with the scan. Other metallic objects that can interfere with a scan include pacemaker, brain aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, dental fillings and bridges, metallic fragments in the eyes or blood vessels, metal plates, wires, screws, or rods and surgical clips or staples.

PEOPLE SHOULD BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING:

Pillows or foam blocks on the trolley will keep the head in the right position.
MRI machines make a lot of noise, so expect to hear loud hums, knocking sounds, and general electronic noise. Technicians will usually provide headphones or earplugs.
People must stay very still inside the scanner to ensure clear, accurate images. If a person moves, they may have to repeat the scan.
Every MRI machine has a call button. If a person feels anxious or wants to stop the procedure, they can press the call button and talk to the medical staff.
Pillows or foam blocks on the trolley will keep the head in the right position.
MRI machines make a lot of noise, so expect to hear loud hums, knocking sounds, and general electronic noise. Technicians will usually provide headphones or earplugs.
People must stay very still inside the scanner to ensure clear, accurate images. If a person moves, they may have to repeat the scan.
Every MRI machine has a call button. If a person feels anxious or wants to stop the procedure, they can press the call button and talk to the medical staff.