MRI Scan - Brain with Spectroscopy and Contrast Test

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses magnetism and radio waves to create cross section pictures of the body. People usually have an MRI scan in the x-ray (radiology) department. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the brain and other cranial structures that are clearer and more detailed than other imaging methods.

Make sure you inform your doctor about the following beforehand: any operations you’ve had any metal implants or other metals in your body An MRI scan uses strong magnetism which could affect any metal in your body. But, you can have an MRI scan even if you have some metals in your body when your doctor and radiographer decide if it is safe for you. Tell the scanner staff about any metals in your body.

Some people feel claustrophobic or closed in when they’re having an MRI scan. The hospital staff can take extra care to make sure you’re comfortable and that you understand what’s going on. Your doctor can give you medicine to help you relax if you need it. You might need to stop eating and drinking an hour or more before the scan. Talk to your doctor if this could be a problem, for example if you're diabetic. You can usually take all your medicines as normal beforehand. Some stick-on medicine patches contain metal and could overheat in the MRI scan, causing burns. You might need to remove them before the scan.

MRI can help diagnose conditions such as:
brain tumors
stroke
infections
developmental anomalies
hydrocephalus — dilatation of fluid spaces within the brain
causes of epilepsy
hemorrhage in selected trauma patients
certain chronic conditions, such as multiple sclerosis
disorders of the eye and inner ear
disorders of pituitary gland
vascular problems, such as an aneurysm, arterial occlusion or venous thrombosis.

Lie on your back on a couch that can slide into the tube. You might have an injection of a dye called contrast medium. This helps to show up your body’s organs more clearly. You have the injection through a small plastic tube (cannula) into a vein in your arm. The couch moves through the MRI scanner. It takes pictures as you move through it.