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Hello, I’m Dr. Shawn Teague, a radiologist at National Jewish Health in Denver. I’d like to talk with you about magnetic resonance imaging of the chest, also known as chest M-R-I.
Chest M-R-I does not use ionizing radiation. Instead, it uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the chest, including the chest wall, lungs, heart and blood vessels. Chest M-R-I may be used to safely evaluate lung cancer, blocked blood vessels and traumatic injury. It may be performed with or without contrast material which, if needed, will be injected through an IV into a vein in your arm.
If you’re scheduled for a chest M-R-I, there are several things you can do to prepare.
First, discuss any serious health problems, recent surgeries, and allergies, especially to contrast material with your doctor. Also, inform your doctor and the MRI technologist if there is any possibility you might be pregnant.
On the day of your exam, wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave any jewelry at home. Tell the MRI technologist if you have any medical devices or metal objects implanted in your body as these can interfere with the magnetic field of the M-R-I unit.
The magnetic field is not harmful; however, some implanted devices may malfunction or cause problems during the exam.
Most M-R-I exams are painless, but the machine does produce loud tapping and buzzing noises. You may be offered earmuffs, earplugs or headphones to reduce the sound. Some patients may find it uncomfortable to lie still for long periods while others may experience claustrophobia. If this is a concern, you may want to ask your doctor for a mild sedative to take prior to the exam.
For more information about chest M-R-I, visit Radiology Info dot org.
Thank you for your time!
