Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

1. that the magnetic field and radio frequency used are dangerous under certain circumstances, as metallic objects can be attracted by the magnet or destroyed by the radio wave. MRI examinations are not possible for patients with certain implants in particular. These include pacemakers, implanted cardioverter defibrillators, electronic implants (spinal cord stimulator, cochlear implant and similar), magnetically activatable implants (implanted insulin pump or drug infusion pump and similar), non-MRI-compatible prostheses/implants, metal splinters or metallic foreign bodies.
2. that metal parts that enter the magnetic field can lead to injuries and image artifacts. Therefore, all metal or magnetic objects should be removed before the examination. These include wristwatches, glasses, keys, (piercing) jewelry, hairpins/barrettes, wallets, loose coins in pockets, credit cards (magnetic strip is deleted and card becomes unusable!), metal parts of clothing (belts, zippers, metal buttons, fasteners, e.g. on bras), removable dentures, braces, hearing aids and acupuncture needles.
3. that there is no severe renal insufficiency.
4. that a sedative can be administered before the examination in case of severe claustrophobia.

There is a 60-80 cm opening in the tubular magnet into which the patient couch can be moved. During the examination, you will hear loud knocking noises caused by the electromagnetic circuits (gradients). These noises are completely normal and vary in volume depending on the area being examined and the technique used. If necessary, you will be given earplugs or headphones.
It is important to remain still during the examination so that no image disturbances are caused. Depending on the procedure, you may have to follow breathing commands or be given an ECG so that the images can be taken at the same time.
On average, the examination takes between 30-50 minutes. Up to several hundred images are taken.