Since its development in the 1980s, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has become a widely used diagnostic tool. It uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs, tissues, and bones. However, some conditions and diseases can make it hard for a standard MRI to show enough contrast between different tissues, making abnormalities harder to spot.
MRI with contrast, also called contrast-enhanced MRI or gadolinium-enhanced MRI, uses an injected contrast dye to improve image quality and better visualize structures inside the body. It highlights areas or tissues that may be hard to see with a standard MRI.
As the leading imaging provider in Eau Claire, Wausau, and Madison, WI,Smart Scan Medical Imaging uses the advanced GE Voyager 1.5T Wide Bore MRI Scanner for contrast-enhanced MRI, offering exceptional image quality and a larger, more comfortable bore for patients to reduce anxiety and claustrophobia. Schedule an appointment at one of our locations to learn how MRI with contrast can help diagnose your condition.
If you're curious about how contrast-enhanced MRI can benefit your specific needs or want to learn more about how this technology works — keep reading.
Understanding Contrast-Enhanced MRI
A contrast enhanced MRI adds clarity to images through a substance called gadolinium. This naturally occurring element is safe for most patients and does not emit radiation. Reactions are very rare, about 10 times less common than CT (iodine) contrast.
During a contrast-enhanced MRI, the patient receives an injection of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCA) into the vein. Once injected, the GBCA travels through the bloodstream to reach all areas of the body being imaged.
The contrast dye contains tiny particles that are designed to enhance signals in specific areas on the scan, making them stand out more clearly. These particles bind to proteins in blood vessels and increase signal intensity where there is inflammation or damage.
Contrast enhanced MRI scans provide a more detailed image that can help doctors determine the location, extent, and severity of some abnormalities or diseases.
Benefits of Contrast-Enhanced MRI
Using MRI with contrast can provide significant benefits for patients and doctors, including:
✔Detection of malignant (cancerous) and benign (non-cancerous) tissue: Contrast-enhanced MRI can help distinguish between normal and abnormal tissue, making detecting tumors or other abnormalities easier.
✔Improved imaging of tissues and structures: The contrast agent highlights certain areas in the body that may not be visible on a standard MRI, such as tumors, blood vessels, active inflammation and infections such as abscesses.
✔Better diagnosis and treatment planning: With clearer MRI images, doctors can make more accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans for their patients. Leading to better outcomes and more efficient care.
✔Reduced need for additional testing: With better imaging, there may be a reduced need for additional diagnostic procedures, which can save time and money, as well as reduce patient discomfort.
Conditions That May Require Contrast-Enhanced MRI
Doctors may recommend a MRI with contrast scan for various conditions, including but not limited to:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Brain tumors and aneurysms
- Breast cancer
- Spinal cord injuries
- Heart diseases and defects
- Inflammation or infection in the body
- Liver or kidney disease
- Abnormalities in the blood vessels
What to Expect During an MRI with Contrast
During a contrast-enhanced MRI, the process is similar to a standard MRI, with a few additional steps for administering the contrast agent. Here's what you can expect:
1. Preparation
- Upon arrival, you'll be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any metal objects, such as jewelry or eyeglasses.
- A technologist will review your medical history and explain the procedure in detail to ensure you understand all steps involved.
2. Initial Imaging
- Our staff will help you onto the table and slide you into our GE Voyager 1.5T Wide Bore MRI machine, and initial images will be taken without the contrast material to serve as a baseline.
- The MRI scanner uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of your internal structures.
- You will need to remain very still for short periods to ensure clear images.
3. Injection of Contrast Agent
- A healthcare professional will insert an intravenous (IV) line into a vein, usually in your arm or hand.
- The gadolinium contrast agents will be injected through the IV. You may feel a cool sensation as the contrast enters your bloodstream.
4. Contrast Imaging
- After the initial images, the actual contrast-enhanced images will be captured.
- This second round of imaging will follow the same procedures as the first.
5. Completion
- Once all necessary images are taken, the table will slide out of the MRI scanner, and the IV line will be removed.
- You'll be allowed to change back into your clothes, and a radiologist will review the images for any abnormalities, create a report, and send it to your doctor (all included in the price of the $850 price of the scan, unlike many other places which will charge you separately for the scan and additionally for the radiologist report).
6. Post-Procedure
- You can generally resume normal activities immediately after the procedure, as the MRI contrast agents are typically eliminated from the body through urine within 24 hours.
- Your doctor will discuss the results with you once our radiologist has completed their review.
Being well-prepared and understanding what to expect during the procedure can help reduce any anxiety you may have and ensure a smooth experience.
Why Choose Smart Scan Medical Imaging?
Choosing Smart Scan Medical Imaging ensures that you receive top-notch care and the most accurate imaging results possible. Here are several reasons why our services stand out:
- Advanced technology: Our GE Voyager 1.5T Wide Bore MRI Scanner provides the highest quality images, reducing the need for additional testing and improving diagnoses.
- Expert radiologists:Our experienced radiologists specialize in advanced imaging techniques, ensuring accurate readings and timely results.
- Convenient locations: With multiple locations in Eau Claire, Wausau, and Madison, WI, it is easy for you to get the care you need close to home.
- Patient-centered care: We prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction, providing a stress-free and comfortable imaging experience.
- Comprehensive services: At Smart Scan, we offer various types of MRI to cater to your specific needs and medical concerns, such as brain MRI, spine MRI, and orthopedic MRI.
- Affordable Pricing:We provide competitive rates, way less expensive than the hospital systems: $650 for most exams without contrast and $850 for exams with and without contrast. We also accept most insurance plans, ensuring imaging services are accessible to all patients.
- Fast results: Our advanced technology provides fast imaging and quick results, with expert radiologists typically delivering a detailed report within a couple of hours.
- Same and Next-Day scheduling: Don’t wait weeks in line at a big medical system. Our online scheduling tool makes it easy to book appointments at your convenience, and our friendly staff is always available to assist you.
Get Your Contrast-Enhanced MRI at Smart Scan!
MRI with contrast is a valuable tool in modern medicine, providing improved imaging and better diagnoses for various conditions. So, if your doctor recommends an MRI with contrast, choose Smart Scan Medical Imaging for expert care and accurate results. With our advanced GE Voyager 1.5T Wide Bore MRI Scanner, subspecialty-trained radiologists, and patient-centered approach, you can trust us to provide the best imaging experience possible.
Schedule your appointment today to experience the best imaging services in Wisconsin.
