Preparing for magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a very informative, relatively recent diagnostic method. MRI allows imaging sections of organs, soft tissues and bones in different planes, and the method is based not on ionizing radiation, but on the principle of magnetic resonance of hydrogen nuclei, the most widely represented element in the human body.

Thus, the MRI method is practically harmless. In addition, it does not require prior preparation and allows for the diagnosis of diseases in both adults and children.

MRI with intravenous contrast

The procedure is carried out no earlier than 2-3 hours after a meal. Medication is allowed. Medication should be taken with a small amount of water. You must arrive at the specialized department 30 minutes before the start of the study.

MRI of the joints

You should arrive at the radiology department 20 minutes before the start of the study. If necessary, a pre-traumatologist will have to introduce intra-articular contrast.

MRI of the pelvic organs

Before the study for 2 days it is necessary to follow a slag-free diet, that is, it is not recommended to use legumes, black bread, milk, soda, vegetables, fruits, sweets; allowed buckwheat, oatmeal, lentils, rice, tea, dairy products (if there is no intolerance), lean meat, fish, vegetable soups. The procedure is performed on an empty stomach or no earlier than 3-4 hours after a meal. Medication is allowed (with a small amount of water). In the morning before the test, a cleansing enema is done, and 45 minutes before the start of the study, it is necessary to empty the bladder. Women perform the procedure on the 5-7th day of the menstrual cycle (if there are no other instructions from the attending physician).

MRI of mammary glands

The procedure is carried out no earlier than 3-4 hours after a meal. Medication is allowed (with a small amount of water). The study is performed on the 5-14 day of the menstrual cycle.

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)

The study is carried out strictly on an empty stomach (no earlier than 6 hours after meals). 3 hours before the study should not drink anything.

Liver mri

Liver MRI is performed on an empty stomach or no earlier than 3-4 hours after a meal. Medication is allowed (with a small amount of water). 2 hours before the test, you must refrain from taking any liquid.

MRI of the prostate gland

The study is conducted on an empty stomach or no earlier than 3-4 hours after the last meal. Medication 

is allowed (with a small amount of water). 2 days prior to the study, it is necessary to follow a slag-free diet, i.e. it is not recommended to use legumes, black bread, milk, carbonated drinks, vegetables, fruits, sweets; allowed buckwheat, oatmeal, lentils, rice, tea, dairy products (if there is no intolerance), lean meat, fish, vegetable soups. In the morning before the study, do a cleansing enema.

Computed tomography (CT) is one of the most modern and highly informative methods of radiation diagnosis. The resulting images are characterized by high accuracy and diagnostic value. Images are obtained using a special type of x-ray apparatus and computer data processing. A computer tomograph of the European medical center, whose services we use, allows us to conduct a study of any kind - from CT of the brain to CT of the joints.

Preparation for computed tomography

Standard CT (without contrast, without anesthesia) does not require special training from the patient and lasts no more than 40 minutes. Before carrying out the procedure, it is necessary to remove all objects with metal elements that fall into the scanning zone.

Important Clue! If, during CT, it is possible or planned to use a radiopaque substance, then 48 hours before the study and within 48 hours after it is necessary to cancel the hypoglycemic drugs containing metformin, switch to other drugs, after consulting your endocrinologist.

Preparation for the study of abdominal organs, liver, gallbladder, biliary tract, kidneys and adrenal glands

12 hours before CT, you can eat light meals (tea, kefir, yogurt).

An hour before the CT scan 1 liter of a diluted solution of urographin or another contrast agent should be drunk as directed by the radiologist (in the case of urographin, dilute 1 ampoule of the drug with 76% -20 ml per 1 liter of water).

Preparation for computed tomography of the pelvic organs

The study is conducted on an empty stomach or no less than 3-4 hours after the last meal. Medication is allowed (with a small amount of water). Immediately before the examination in the department you will be offered to drink about 500-600 ml of water.

Preparation for CT of the heart and coronary arteries, CT angiography of any segment of the vascular bed

During CT-coronary angiography, it is important to ensure low heart rate (pulse 65 beats per minute or less), therefore, receiving a referral to this study, this aspect should be discussed with a cardiologist. Perhaps he will prescribe additional medication.

CT scan is performed on an empty stomach or at least 3 hours after the last meal. On the day of the study, it is recommended to refrain from smoking, drinking coffee, tea and energy drinks.