Download Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Information For Our Clients
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Introduction
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most advanced
imaging technique used in veterinary medicine. MRI
provides detailed images of internal structures and can
reveal subtle abnormalities that cannot be identified with
radiographs or CT scans. In some disease processes, MRI
MRI OF THE BRAIN – Hydrocephalus
and syringohydromyelia secondary to
caudal occipital malformation.
is the only imaging technique that can permit an accurate
diagnosis. It is also the safest imaging modality for
evaluation of the spinal cord. MRI is considered the gold
standard of diagnostic imaging for diseases of the brain
and spinal cord.
By varying imaging parameters, different and complementary information
can be obtained with MRI. These two images are from the same patient in the
identical areas of the brain.
Frequently Asked Questions – MRI Benefits & Procedures
Is MRI safe and comfortable
for my pet?
How do we prepare prior to
the MRI procedure?
admit your pet the morning the
MRI is scheduled if your pet is
MRI is a safe and non-invasive In veterinary patients, MRI must not already hospitalized. We will
contact you when the procedure
procedure that does not cause be performed under general
is complete. If you leave
any pain or discomfort. Unlike anesthesia which necessitates
a CT scan, no ionizing radiation withholding food for at least 12 MedVet while the procedure is
performed, please provide our
is utilized during an MRI. An
hours prior to the scan.
staff with a contact telephone
MRI uses a strong magnet and What happens when I bring
number. You are welcome
radio waves to generate highly my pet in for an MRI?
to wait at MedVet during the
detailed images of internal
The time required to complete
procedure, but your pet may not
anatomy.
an MRI study will vary. We will
be ready to be discharged for
try to provide an estimation of
several hours.
the time required to perform
the scan at the time your pet is
admitted. You will be asked to
After you check in with one of our
Client Service Representatives
the following will take place:
You will meet with a member of
the MRI team, who will answer
any questions you have about
the procedure. Your pet will
then be admitted to the hospital
for the day and preparations
for the MRI will begin. If
needed, a mild sedative will be
administered to calm your pet
for catheter placement. A small
amount of fur will be clipped
to facilitate placement of an
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) continued
Frequently Asked Questions –
MRI Benefits & Procedures cont.
intravenous catheter for administration of
anesthetic agents and intravenous fluids.
Anesthesia is required because the patient
must remain completely still during the
procedure in order for clear images to
be acquired. An additional small area of
fur will be clipped from the chest where
an ECG pad will be placed. The ECG
will allow your pet’s heart rhythm to be
monitored throughout the procedure.
Your pet will be anesthetized under the
direct supervision of a board certified
veterinary anesthesiologist, then placed
on a padded comfortable table. This
table will slide into a chamber which is
surrounded by the magnet. The scan
is performed under the direction of
a board certified MedVet radiologist.
www.medvetforpets.com
Following the MRI your pet will be moved
to a warm, comfortable recovery area.
Your pet may go home once completely
awakened from the anesthesia. When
your pet is discharged, MedVet staff will
discuss at home care. A final written
report from the radiologist will generally
be available in 24 hours and will be
reviewed with you by your primary care
veterinarian. Since a final report of the
MRI will not be available at the time your
pet is released, the staff member will not
be able to discuss the results with you.
Some of the many uses for MRI
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tracking nerve fibers of the
brain and spine
typing of brain tumors without
the need for biopsy
distinguishing diseased from
normal tissue
detecting tumors and
assessment for malignancy
determining if a tumor will
best be treated with surgery or
radiation therapy