Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI is a type of scanning pattern that uses strong magnetic fields combined with radio waves to produce detailed images of the affected part of the body. An MRI scanning machine contains 2 powerful magnets. These are the most important units of this machine. The human body is typically and largely made of water molecules, those are comprised of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. At the center of an atom lies an even smaller particle which called a proton that serves as a magnet and is very sensitive to any magnetic field. Normally, the water molecules in the human body are randomly arranged, but when entering in an MRI scanner, the first magnet causes those water molecules to align in one direction, which is, either north or south.
The second magnetic field is then in a series of quick pulses, turned on and off. This causes hydrogen atoms to change their alignment when the switch gets on and then quickly switch back to its original relaxed position when the switch gets off. Passing electricity through the gradient coils that cause the coils to vibrate and creates the magnetic field, which also causes a knocking sound inside the scanner. Though people cannot feel these changes, the scanner can detect them. Finally in conjunction with a computer, it can create a detailed cross-sectional image for the review of the radiologist.
How its’ been done?
During an MRI scan, the patient lies on a flat-bed which moved into the scanner. Depending on the part of a patient’s body being scanned, he/she will be moved into the machine either head first or feet first. The MRI scanner is technically operated by a radiographer, who must be a trained one, in carrying out this imaging investigation. They usually control the scanner with the help of a computer. This work generally carried out is in a different room, because to keep him away from the magnetic field generated by the MRI scanner. Patient will be able to talk to the radiographer via an intercom and they’ll also be able to see the patient on a monitor throughout the scan. The scanner will make tapping noises, at certain times during the scan. This is because of the electric current in the scanner coils which is being turned on and off. A patient will be given headphones or earplugs to wear. It’s very important to keep still as much as possible during one’s MRI scan. The MRI scan lasts 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the size of the body part being scanned and how many images are being taken.
Use of MRI scan
The development of this very scan type represents a huge milestone for the medical arena. Scientists, researchers and doctors, are now capable of examining the inside of a human body in high detail using a piece of non-invasive equipment. The following are examples of diagnosis area where an MRI scanner would be used:
- anomalies of the spinal cord and brain
- cysts, tumors, and some other anomalies in different parts of the body
- screening for breast cancer in women who face a high risk of the same
- injuries and/or abnormalities of the joints, like the back and knee
- certain kinds of heart problems
- diseases of abdominal organs like the liver
- the evaluation of pelvic pain, with causes including endometriosis and fibroids in women
- suspected uterine anomalies undergoing evaluation for infertility in women
The above-said list is by no means exhaustive. The use of MRI scanning technology is always expanding in scope and use.
An MRI scan cost
Just like all other medical procedures, the price range to have the MRI scan performed varies widely. The variability comes with which type of MRI scan a patient has done, on which body part and where he/she chooses to have the MRI scan. Of course, different parts of the city as well as the country charges more for the scan than others, like people will also likely find that MRI scan cost in Mumbai like two different locations in there, can have vastly different costs as well. Obviously, cost of an MRI scan of the brain will considerably more compared to the knee. Any dyes needed during this scan will also increase the cost of the procedure. The MRI scan total price comprises two primary fees: the technical fee that is simply how much the actual process costs, and the professional fee, that is how much it costs to have the tests’ results read.
If anyone has more than one option available in his/her city or town, by all means, call them and get a quote, check out the cost at own local hospitals and any imaging centers he/she has in town. A few phone calls can literally save their thousands of rupees because each diagnostic center sets their own fees: It’s basically not standardized. Even if anyone saw his/her doctor at the hospital, they can also take the time to call other facilities for their prices. For the type of MRI his/her doctor recommends, check the price in his/her area with a free online guide that listed fair prices for health care services.
How to book a scan test?
- Step 1 – Firstly, a patient must have a referral letter or form, from an appropriate physician, which may include:
- A Consultant or doctor
- A GP
- Registered Physiotherapist, Chiropractor, Osteopath, etc.
- Medical-Legal Representative who is for Personal or Industrial Injury Claims
- Step 2 – Then the patient will need to decide whether to pay for the scan himself or choose to go through his/her insurance company.If he/she decides to choose to go through his/her insurance company it is important that he/she has authorization before booking a consultation.
- Step 3 – Call the respective radiology department on their given phone number to arrange a diagnostic test.
- Step 4 – Best MRI scan center in Mumbai usually accepts payment by all major debit and credit cards, via one’s internet banking service or by cheque.
