Question 1

how can a brain mri be done?

Accepted Answer

MRI: You will be asked to rest on your back and not move your head during the mri.  You will be moved into the scanner.  The MRI machine has enormously powerful magnets which will orient hydrogen molecules into a single direction.  When a when the magnet energy is changed, the hydrogen atoms give off energy which will be picked up by the computer.

Question 2

when a brain mri is necessary?

Accepted Answer

Many indications: There are literally too many examples to list in this forum.  The best answer is that doctors are highly trained to know if/when  symptoms are worrisome enough to warrant imaging. Mri is the best way to get a very detailed look at the brain and other intracranial structures. Some examples of indications include stroke, seizures, visual changes or severe headache, though the list goes on.

Question 3

how long can a brain mri take?

Accepted Answer

30-40 minutes: For most sequences it can be done in 30-40 minutes, longer if more images are taken.  Ct scan is quick, usually only several minutes, but involves low level radiation.  You trade image quality for speed.

Question 4

how long does it take for a brain mri?

Accepted Answer

20-60 minutes: It varies depending on how many sequences are required.  A basic scan runs about 20 minutes, but if the scan requires specialized looks at specific areas (such as the pituitary, the temporal lobes, or the orbits), or if additional sequences with contrast agent are needed, it can take significantly longer.

Question 5

what are the dangers caused by a brain mri?

Accepted Answer

MR imaging is safe: There are no inherent dangers caused by the magnetic field on the brain. However, a number of items can interfere with mr imaging and some may be hazardous, these include older brain aneurysm clips, cardiac pacemakers/aicd/defibrillators, implanted  medicine pumps, tens unit, bullet fragments/pellets/shrapnel, embolization coils, etc. Claustrophobic patients find MRI difficult to without medication.

Question 6

on average, how long will a brain mri take?

Accepted Answer

45 - 90 minutes: This depends on the particulary MRI sequences and the use of contrast medium. A routine brain MRI without contrast is about 45 minutes or less. Adding contrast adds another 15-20 minutes. An MRI for the pituitary gland, the cranial nerves or the orbits require more time.

Question 7

what kinds of things show up on a brain mri?

Accepted Answer

NUMEROUS ITEMS: Brain MRI is quite precise and allows very discrete images of large and small strokes, areas of old or new bleeding, abnormal blood vessels and tumors, congenital brain malformations, focal and diffuse areas of inflammation, such as infections or multiple sclerosis or vasculitis, etc.

Question 8

what does 'giant panda' mean on a brain mri?

Accepted Answer

Anatomic: its an area of the midbrain that on MRI that looks like the face of a giant panda.  Frankly, I don't see it.  But I can't see those pictures that have hidden objects in them either. It has uncertain clinical significance.  Talk to your doctor about what it may mean in your situation.

Question 9

what is the average cash price for a brain mri?

Accepted Answer

It depends: Stay out of hospitals and use a free standing mri. Do not be afraid to negotiate a cash price. Finally, offer to pay the hmo reimbursement rate as that is often the lowest. Shop around.

Question 10

how much is a brain mri if you have no insurance?

Accepted Answer

Lots of money: Typically an MRI costs 2,000 - 5,000 dollars depending on if you need contrast or special views. You can negotiate cost ahead of time with the MRI provider for lower rates, especially if you are willing to pagtccash up front for the procedure.Call the billing office, and the institution may also have charitable support if you are indigent or disabled,but you need to do these things "ahead of time"

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Shadow on brain mri

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How can a brain mri be done?

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When a brain mri is necessary?

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How long can a brain mri take?

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How long does it take for a brain mri?

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What are the dangers caused by a brain mri?

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On average, how long will a brain mri take?

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What kinds of things show up on a brain mri?

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What does 'giant panda' mean on a brain mri?

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What is the average cash price for a brain mri?

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How much is a brain mri if you have no insurance?

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