MRI Scan - Middle Ear Test

MRI scan is the most useful thing which can be done for visualizing middle ear. The MRI scan is generally advised by the doctor when he finds that your hearing loss is sensorineural which means there is a problem with the nerves and portions of the brain involved in hearing. The MRI scan looks for the presence of some serious illness like tinnitus, unilateral hearing loss or Meniere disease. The MRI scan also excludes the presence of brain tumors and multiple sclerosis and show the internal auditory canal. The test is useful if the symptoms are severe and other diagnoses need to be considered. The MRI scan uses a strong magnetic field to scan the middle ear.

When you arrive at the hospital you should report to the MRI department. Usually, the patient does not need to fast or stop eating or drinking before the scanning, unless advised by the doctor. The patient needs to fill in the questionnaire which will contain the details of your medical history and will determine whether the scan can be performed safely and consent for the contrast injection if required. The patient should also inform beforehand if he/she had been suffering from some severe disorders. The patient also needs to remove all the metal object like keys, coins, watches, jewelry for successful scanning.

MRI scan of the middle ear is a noninvasive technique that does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation. The aim of MRI scan is to have a closer look at the anatomy of the middle year and the structures attached to it like to find out whether there are any benign conditions which might result in the differences between the ears. it also helps the physician to evaluate the structures of the ear and also provide functional information in selected cases.

The patient is required to lie on the moveable examination table. Devices containing coils capable of receiving or sending radio waves are placed around the ear. The table then slides inside the large donut-like structure which uses magnetic fields for close examination. In some cases, the doctor might order an MRI with contrast. In this case, the nurse will inject the contrast material into a vein in your arm or hand. The radiologist will monitor you from another room. The entire scanning procedure usually takes around 45 minutes and is completely painless. The patient only needs to relax and remain in a standstill position for the entire procedure.