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How Long Does an MRI Take? A Comprehensive Guide

How Long Does an MRI Take

What is an MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic technique in the field of medicine that doesn’t invade the body but uses magnets with high electromagnetic fields and radio waves to form detailed pictures of human tissues. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, which use radiation, MRI creates images by using magnetic fields. Magnetic resonance imaging has become one of the most important tools for diagnosing various diseases because of its ability to produce high-resolution scans.

How Long Does an MRI Take?

The duration of an MRI scan depends on several factors including the type of exam being conducted, part of the body under examination as well as specific protocols used by the imaging centre. This can range from fifteen minutes up to over one hour. In general, an MRI scan lasts between 15 minutes and one hour. On average, routine examinations such as knee or shoulder only last about thirty to forty five minutes without any contrast media whereas complex examinations or those that employ contrast materials may take longer.

How Much Does an MRI Cost?

The cost of an MRI can vary greatly depending on a number of factors such as location where it is performed, modality being performed and if a contrast will be used. The average price for a single non-insured MRI examination could be anywhere between $400 and $3500 or more.

How long is the waiting period for MRI results?

Once the scan is done, the radiologist reviews and interprets the images and then creates a report summarizing their observations. The duration of an MRI exam can vary from one center to another due to its workload and how urgent a given case may be. In most cases, patients should expect to get their MRI results within few days or up to one week after the scan.

Why do you have to skip meals before having an MRI with contrast?

In certain circumstances, patients are instructed not to eat any food before undergoing magnetic resonance imaging using a contrast agent especially when they are being scanned for abdominal or pelvic problems. By fasting, clinicians can allow optimum visibility of structures under examination by minimizing the presence of food and related digestive gases in the lumen which may interfere with clarity of images. To achieve better outcome, healthcare providers must give fasting guidelines to their clients.

How Long Does it Take for an MRI with Contrast?

Contrast-enhanced MRI utilizes a special substance called contrast media like gadolinium-based dye that makes some tissues or blood vessels more visible. The time required for performing such exam with contrast agents depends on various parameters including whether gadolinium-based dyes are used or what kind of imaging has been ordered.

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