MRI is one of the high-information and safe methods of study of human organs and systems in modern medical practice. The method is based on recording of a radio signal from hydrogen protons in a constant magnetic field. The method does not stipulate the use of X-ray, gamma or any other type of ionizing radiation and is not related with radiation exposure. However, a strong magnetic field created by the tomograph imposes some limitations:

• MRI is not available for those who have metal clips installed on brain vessels or eye and orbit vessels during surgery;
• MRI is not available for those who have a metallic foreign body inside the skull or orbit, for example, as a result of a gunshot wound;
• MRI cannot be performed within 4 months after the installation of shunts and stents in vessels (regardless of localization: head, arm, leg, etc.), cava filters and most of artificial heart valves;
• MRI is not available for patients with the installed cardiostimulator, hearing implants and any other electronic devices that may fail in the tomograph's magnetic field

All these limitations relate to the risk of displacement of metal objects under exposure to a magnetic field and the possible injury to surrounding tissues. In all other cases, metal objects in the human body are usually tightly fixed by scar tissue and pose no danger. However, before the study the patient should inform the staff of the MRI room on all metal objects in the body to decide on the possibility of conducting tomography.

In addition to the above-specified, MRI is not recommended in the first 3 months of pregnancy without solid medical indications. For more than 30 years of active use of MRI, no adverse fetal effects have been identified. However, precaution measures are taken, since "there is no too much protection" for the new life.

The magnetic resonance imaging room is equipped with modern MAGNETOM Esprее MR tomographer manufacture by SIEMENS with the magnetic field strength of 1.5 tesla. The tomograph has the widest (diameter - 70 cm) and shortest (length - 125 cm) tunnel, lighting, a fan supplying fresh air, an emergency physician contact button. The tomograph is equipped with a full set of coils, including specialized coils for all joints.

The room is used to conduct studies, including using contrast agents:

• MRI of the head (brain, pituitary, orbits, paranasal sinuses, temporal bones, brain vessels);
• MRI of the neck (thyroid, muscle structures, major vessels and lymph nodes);
• MRI of mammary glands;
• MRI of the abdominal cavity and retroperitoneal space (liver, spleen, pancreas, adrenal glands, kidneys, abdominal aorta, renal arteries, lymph nodes);
• MRI of the pelvis (bladder, prostate, seminal vesicles, uterus, ovaries, iliac arteries, lymph nodes);
• MRI of the spine (cervical, thoracic, lumbosacral regions, coccyx);
• MRI of extremities (upper and lower extremities, hand and foot);
• MRI of joints (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, temporomandibular)

MRI is a long study, it usually takes 20-60 minutes depending on the examination area and complexity of changes detected. A physician starts his/her work with the execution of a study report, but the most critical part of the process is upon completion of tomography. Only by this moment, all the information is available for analysis. Analysis and report execution are responsible, labor-intensive processes that form the most essential part of the study. It usually takes 30-50 minutes. However, you can receive the results at another time if you have no time or desire to wait for them immediately after the study. Please inform the physician thereon. The physician may ask a few questions about the course of your disease. The answers will be important for preparation of a conclusion.

A minor preparation is necessary immediately before the MRI. Take all metal objects out of the pockets because they can fly out in the magnetic field of the tomograph and pose threat to the device and you: a metal object quickly moving under the magnetic field action can even severely hurt a person and damage the device. Take off hairpins, headbands, etc. In addition to the danger of "flying out", watches, telephones, car keys, hearing aids and any other objects containing batteries may fail because of discharge of batteries. The magnetic field of the tomograph may damage magnetic cards, including bank, social, transport cards.

To prepare for the study, we offer time and place, as well as disposable clothes in case the patient’s clothes contains metal hooks, buttons or any other elements. During the study, clothes should contain no metal elements (zippers, hooks, snap closures, buttons, buckles, etc.) and metallic threads in embroidery. Please follow these recommendations so that to feel comfortable in your own clothes. MRI is a noisy process so the patient receives comfortable earplugs.

Certain types of MRI require additional preparation. We'll provide more details upon appointment to the study.

Do not despair if you are not attached to our out-patient clinic! You may receive any medical service on a paid basis according to the price list.