MRI - KLSMC

Contents

Introduction

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the structures within your body.

It is especially useful for musculoskeletal and soft-tissues imaging.

Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRI does not use radiation.

What to Expect with MRI

Before Your MRI

Medical Screening: You will complete a safety questionnaire about metal implants, devices, or conditions that might be affected by the magnetic field. Please inform us if you have any implanted medical devices, artificial joints, pacemakers, or if you have ever worked with metal. 
Preparation Instructions: Most MRI examinations require no special preparation. For certain scans, specific preparations may be required, including fasting or adherence to certain dietary recommendations.
Contrast Material: Some MRI studies may require contrast agent (gadolinium) for further assessment. If needed, this will be administered through an intravenous line during your examination. 
Clothing and Accessories: You will need to remove all metal objects, including jewelry, watches, hearing aids, and items with magnetic strips. You are required to change into a hospital gown. 
Comfort Measures: If you experience claustrophobia, please discuss this with our staff when scheduling.

During Your MRI

Positioning: You will lie on a padded table that slides into the MRI machine, which is shaped like a tube open at both ends. 
Communication: An emergency call button will be provided throughout the scan procedure. If the you feel unwell or need to stop the scan, you may press or squeeze it to alert the technologist.
Noise Levels: The MRI scanner produces loud knocking or thumping sounds during operation. Earplugs or headphones will be provided to reduce the noise.
Movement during procedure: It is crucial to remain as still as possible during imaging to ensure clear results. Depending on the body part being scanned, you may be asked to hold your breath briefly during certain sequences. 
Duration: Depending on the body part being examined and the number of sequences required, MRI scans typically take between 15-30 minutes.

After Your MRI

Post Scan: You can resume normal activities immediately after the scan. 
Post-contrast Care: If you receive contrast material, drinking extra fluids helps your body eliminate it more quickly. 
Results Timeline: Our radiologist will analyze your images, and a detailed report will be sent to your referring physician usually within the same day.

Benefits of MRI

MRI technology provides numerous advantages as a diagnostic tool: 

Superior Soft Tissue Contrast: Exceptional ability to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues, making it invaluable for detecting subtle abnormalities. 
Brain and Nervous System Imaging: Unparalleled clarity for examining the brain and spinal cord, helping diagnose strokes, tumors, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions. 
Joint and Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed visualization of joints, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, making it the preferred method for diagnosing sports injuries, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal problems. 
Abdominal and Pelvic Organs: Clear visualization of the liver, pancreas, kidneys, reproductive organs, and other internal structures to detect various conditions. 
Radiation-Free Technology: Unlike CT scans and X-rays, MRI uses no ionizing radiation, making it safer for repeated examinations and preferred for pregnant women and children.

Safety Information

Our priority is ensuring your safety during MRI examinations:

Magnetic Field Considerations: MRI uses powerful magnets, so we carefully screen all patients for items that might be affected by or pose risks in the magnetic field. 
Metal Objects: Certain metal implants, devices, or fragments may prevent you from having an MRI due to safety concerns or potential image interference. Alternative imaging may be recommended in these cases. 
Contrast Material Safety: The gadolinium-based contrast agents used in MRI are generally considered very safe. Allergic reactions are rare, but our team is fully trained to handle any adverse response.
Pregnancy Considerations: While no harmful effects of MRI on the developing fetus have been documented, we typically avoid non-urgent MRI during the first trimester of pregnancy as a precaution. 
Non-Ionizing Radiation: MRI does not use X-rays or other forms of ionizing radiation, eliminating radiation-related concerns.

Who Should Get MRI

MRI examinations are recommended for patients with:

Neurological Symptoms: Headaches, seizures, vision problems, dizziness, or other brain and spinal cord concerns. 
Joint and Bone Problems: Persistent pain, injuries, or abnormalities in joints, muscles, ligaments, or tendons. 
Cancer Diagnosis and Staging: To detect tumors, determine their precise extent, and monitor treatment effectiveness. 
Liver and Digestive System Issues: Suspected tumors, cirrhosis, inflammatory conditions, or abnormalities in abdominal organs. 
Reproductive and Urinary System Disorders: Conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, prostate, kidneys, or bladder.

Your doctor will determine if an MRI is the most appropriate imaging study based on your specific symptoms and medical condition.

Contact Information

To schedule an MRI appointment at our facility, please call +603-2096 1033 or click on the Contact Us link. Our scheduling team will help you find a convenient time and provide specific preparation instructions for your examination.

FAQ

How much does an MRI cost in Malaysia?

The cost of MRI services in Malaysia typically ranges from RM1,200 to RM3,500, depending on the body part being examined, whether contrast material is used, and the complexity of the study.

More specialized MRI examinations like multiparametric MRI prostate or MR angiography tend to be at the higher end of the price range. 

Is MRI painful or uncomfortable?

MRI examinations are completely painless. The main challenge some patients face is remaining still in an enclosed space. The MRI scanner can be noisy, but we provide ear protection to make you more comfortable.  

If you receive contrast material via injection, you might feel a cool sensation at the injection site or experience a brief metallic taste, but these sensations pass quickly.  

Our team works to ensure maximum comfort throughout your examination, with cushioning pads and supports to help you maintain required positions comfortably. 

How do I prepare for an MRI?

For most MRI scans, no special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally and take medications as usual unless specifically instructed otherwise.

For certain abdominal MRIs, you may need to fast for 4-6 hours.

The most important preparation is removing all metal objects before the scan. If you have claustrophobia, consider asking your doctor about anti-anxiety medication.

If your MRI includes contrast material, a blood test for kidney function is required. Our imaging staff will provide specific instructions for your particular examination.

Is MRI safe if I have metal implants?

Many modern medical implants are MRI-safe or MRI-conditional. Many orthopaedic implants like joint replacements, plates, and screws are typically safe. However, some devices may not be safe, including certain pacemakers, cochlear implants, aneurysm clips. Where necessary, your implant ID card (that typically contains the device name and catalogue reference) will be required.

Undergoing an MRI scan with metal fragments in certain areas (for example, the orbit) may not be safe.

Our screening process carefully determines whether your specific implants are safe to undergo the MRI scan.

Always inform our staff about any implants, devices, or previous surgeries during the screening process so we can ensure your safety. 

KLSMC is a specialist hospital based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with a strong focus on orthopaedics, regenerative treatments, and physiotherapy rehabilitation. Our dedicated team of medical professionals is committed to helping patients regain mobility and enhance their quality of life through personalised and evidence-informed care.

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