Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (MRI)
It is a powerful examination for the evaluation of problems in the brain, spine, abdomen, and reproductive system as well as for the musculoskeletal system and the evaluation of blood vessels.
Specifications
- This exam is offered with an appointment
- A medical prescription is required to perform this examination
* Please note that MRIs are not covered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), that being said, the vast majority of private insurance companies cover these fees.
Preparation
For exams of themusculo-skeletal system, you must bring with you the relevant previous x-rays. If you do not have x-rays or if they are more than 6 months old, we will take them on the day of your exam.
For exams of theabdomen and reproductive system, you must fast for three hours before the exam. You can take your prescribed medication as usual. You must bring with you a copy (film or CD) of the examinations you have undergone in relation to the current problem as well as the x-ray reports.
If you are claustrophobic, we suggest that you request a prescription for a medication to help you relax (such as Ativan), to be taken 30 minutes before the exam begins.
For all other exams, no preparation is required.
Contraindication
You cannot undergo magnetic resonance imaging if:
- You have a cardiac defibrillator
- You have a cardiostimulator (pace maker). However, it can be performed in some hospitals
Relatives:
You must let us know in advance if:
(some of these situations may be a contraindication)
- You have a clip for brain aneurysm surgery (we need to know the type)
- You have an implanted infusion pump
(ex: insulin pump)
- You have received a bullet or shell fragment (we will make a simple film)
- You have a vascular filter, metal coil
(“coil”) or stent - You have a known allergy to gadolinium
- You are pregnant
MRI examination procedure
You will need to remove your clothes, watch and jewelry. In some cases, the technologist will install a venous line so that contrast material can be injected.
The sequences are very noisy so you will be given headphones so you can listen to music and you will have a small call button in your hand so you can communicate with the technologist.
The examination takes place lying on the back or the stomach. A receiving antenna will then be installed at the anatomical region to be studied.
For examinations of the reproductive system, you will be injected with a drug (Buscopan) that slows down bowel movements in order to optimize the quality of the images.
Then, your body or the anatomical region being studied will be introduced into the cylinder of the device. Each sequence of images can last from a few seconds to several minutes.
The information obtained is converted into radiological images which are then interpreted by the radiologist.
Here is the list of MRI exams we offer:
Your health is important to us
Our radiologists have specialized training. They are leaders in their field in Quebec and are committed to providing the highest level of expertise to their patients.
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