MRI & MRA Brain Screening General Information

1. When is a MRI Brain recommended?

Doctors may request an MRI scan for their patients in the following clinical scenarios:

a. Have a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and other risk factors

b. Have a family history of stroke or aneurysm

c. Chronic headaches that occur without a discernible cause or if there is a change in frequency or severity of a patient’s headaches

d. If other symptoms are experienced alongside chronic headaches

e. Have epilepsy, stroke, tumour, dementia, new onset hearing loss, disorders of the pituitary gland, nerve palsies

f. Currently or were smokers

g. Over 40 years of age

Doctors may also request a brain MRI if surgery is scheduled to help plan the procedure

 

2. What is a MRI brain?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain/head is a painless test that produces very clear images of the structures in and around the brain and can be used to help diagnose or rule out a range of conditions and injuries.

It utilises multiple images to create a comprehensive display of the brain’s internal composition, which helps the radiologist to detect and characterise abnormalities in tiny internal structures that can be difficult or impossible to otherwise discern.

MRI makes it possible to visualise parts of the brain that are difficult to see using other imaging methods like computed tomography (CT).

 

3. What is MRA brain?

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is an imaging test that shows the arteries in the brain. An MRA can detect narrowing or blockages in your arteries in a non-invasive way.

You can have a non-enhanced MRA or a contrast-enhanced MRA. Images can be two-dimensional or three-dimensional.

 

4. What is the difference between an MRI and an MRA?

An MRA is a type of MRI. They use the same magnetic resonance imaging machine. An MRA uses an MRI to create images of your blood vessels. Also, a provider can use IV contrast to enhance imaging of your arterial system. An MRI can make images of your blood vessels, organs or even your whole body.

 

5. How do i prepare for a Brain MRI?

Because MRI uses strong magnetic fields, it is essential to review your medical history prior to undertaking an MRI and be sure to discuss with your doctor if you have any metal containing implants, aneurysm clips, pins, plates, screws, staples within your body, prosthetic joints or limbs, artificial heart valves or stents. It is important to inform your doctor if you have any in your body, before undertaking an MRI. It is also important to tell us if you have a history of a metallic foreign body in your eye.

5.1 Preparation Guidelines

a. Wear loose, comfortable, metal-free clothing (you may be asked to change into a hospital gown)

b. Remove all metal objects (jewellery, piercings, watches, etc.)

If you have any known allergies, make sure to mention these to your doctor. If you suffer from claustrophobia, discuss this with your doctor also, as they may be able to prescribe anti-anxiety medication to help.

 

6. What to Expect During the MRI

The Procedure

a. You will be directed to lie down on a bench, which slides you into place within a  tunnel that is positioned in the middle of the MRI machine

b. In some cases, a contrast agent will be injected, by your doctor or a nurse, into one of your veins to enhance the images seen on the MRI

c. Once the scan begins, the machine makes some loud banging noises while imaging is occurring. You will either be offered ear plugs to wear or instead can wear headphones to listen to music while the scan is underway                                                                                                             

d. A brain MRI usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes to complete

The scan is completely painless, and you will be directed by a technician throughout the process.

 

7. Are there any risks to having an MRI?

MRI scans do not use ionising radiation, unlike other types of medical scans such as X-rays and CT. An MRI scan, is therefore considered a safer alternative, particularly for individuals that might be at higher risk, such as pregnant women. 

There are no documented side effects from the radio waves and magnets used during the scan. Some metal containing implants can move or heat up due to the strong magnetic fields. For this reason, it’s particularly important to discuss your medical history with your doctor. While it is rare for people to experience an allergic reaction to the contrast agent used in some MRIs, be sure to mention any known allergies to your doctor also.

 

Click here to sign up for MRI Brain Screening.

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