Regarding "radiation-free," it should be noted that ...

...MRI is "radiation-free" and, according to current knowledge, not harmful. The images are generated by placing the patient in a strong magnetic field, causing all of their atoms (humans consist primarily of hydrogen atoms) to align in one direction within the magnetic field. Then, using precisely calculated electromagnetic stimuli, small sections of the body volume are briefly oriented in a different direction by an additional magnetic pulse (this is the cause of the loud knocking noise during the examination). After the pulse is switched off, these parts return to their original state very quickly. The speed of this process varies depending on the nature of the tissue being examined and can be measured, allowing images to be calculated that show the composition and condition of the tissue.

... Ultrasound examinations require a transducer that generates high-frequency waves. These waves are sent into the body, where they are reflected back in different ways depending on the composition of the tissue. The transducer also has a built-in receiver that records these reflected sound waves (some of which are deflected or changed in frequency). The typical ultrasound images can be calculated from the change in the transmitted signal. Just like MRI, ultrasound examinations are completely "radiation-free"; the electromagnetic waves used are completely harmless and cannot be perceived by the body.

Regarding MR contrast agents, it should be noted that ...

... MR contrast agents are generally well tolerated, and side effects are very rare. In our practice, we use one of the highest quality MR contrast agents currently available on the market. MR contrast agents are only used when deemed necessary and in consultation with the patient. MR contrast agents do not contain iodine, unlike CT contrast agents. During a direct doctor-patient consultation at our practice, we can discuss and weigh up all questions and possible risks. In principle, kidney function should be normal. In rare cases, MR contrast agents have been reported to cause NSF (nephrogenic systemic fibrosis), which can lead to severe skin changes and organ dysfunction. Individual cases of death have been reported. However, these cases of NSF, which have been reported primarily in the USA, seem to be a thing of the past, as they have hardly been reported in recent years and were primarily associated with contrast agents that we do not use in our practice. Deposits of gadolinium in the brain have been reported, although their actual clinical significance is not yet clear. Other rare possible side effects, as we know from other contrast agents or foreign substances, have also been described, but these are more likely to be allergic in nature. Allergic reactions to MR contrast agents are very rare compared to iodine-containing CT contrast agents, for example. If you have any further questions, please contact us.

Many people feel claustrophobic when they first see an MRI machine.
To reassure you: for some examinations (e.g., MRI of the knee or ankle joints), your head does not have to be inserted into the machine. Furthermore, many modern machines are already significantly more spacious and therefore more patient-friendly. Our MRI machine on Beethovenstraße, for example, has an extremely short and very wide tube—it is a quasi "semi-open" 1.5 Tesla system with extremely good image quality. The machine has a higher image resolution than the previous classic open "sandwich MRIs"—for us, this is a real alternative, especially for quality reasons. We therefore agree with the opinion of the regional university hospitals that rely on these systems. It is worth discussing the examination in detail with the doctor performing it and taking a closer look at the device. In our experience, a reassuring conversation helps to allay any fears. If the problems persist, a sedative may be administered in rare cases. This must be prescribed by your family doctor or referring physician and brought with you if necessary. This means that MR examinations are possible for virtually everyone, even patients with severe claustrophobia. The disadvantage of this is that your alertness will be reduced, so you will not be able to drive yourself home after the examination. You will need someone to accompany you.
If you start to feel anxious during the examination or if the anxiety becomes unbearable, you can contact the doctor performing the examination or our staff at any time, as you will be given an emergency bell that you can ring. If necessary, an alternative examination, e.g., using CT, may be considered.

Clickhere to learn more about the contraindications of MRI

No, most examinations of the spine, skeletal system, joints, and head do not require contrast agents. However, contrast agents usually need to be administered for examinations of the brain, soft tissues of the neck, chest, and abdomen in order to obtain optimal results.

CT scans cannot be performed during pregnancy due to radiation exposure. Alternative examination methods such as ultrasound or, in special cases, MRI can be helpful. Other contraindications only apply to the administration of contrast agents – in such cases, the examination may be performed without contrast agents: Contrast agents should not be administered in most forms of hyperthyroidism, in cases of severe contrast agent intolerance in the patient's medical history, in cases of severe cardiovascular disease, in cases of severe renal dysfunction, and in cases of the bone marrow disease "plasmacytoma."

Please bring a current doctor's letter and your latest blood test results with you. Caffeinated drinks or performance-enhancing substances should be avoided on the day of the examination (if possible, for 24 hours beforehand). Potency-enhancing medications (e.g., Viagra) must be discontinued at least 36 hours before the examination.

Low-dose CT uses a CT technique that requires a significantly reduced radiation dose. In return, the quality of the images is slightly poorer and they appear blurrier. However, such compromises in quality can be accepted in many cases, as the examination is not used for patients with a specific suspicion of malignant neoplasms (cancer), but rather as a screening or early detection measure for patients with a certain probability of such a disease (e.g., to detect lung cancer in long-term smokers). Low-dose computed tomography may also be suitable for monitoring the progression of a known diagnosis. Compared to a standard CT scan of the lungs, the dose can be significantly reduced.

An MRI should not be performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. Although no harmful effects of MRI on the fetus have been proven to date, an examination should only be performed in absolutely exceptional cases and for important reasons. The administration of a contrast agent is always avoided during pregnancy, except in life-threatening situations and when it is absolutely necessary. The high noise level during the examination (the mother is given ear protection) may wake the child during the examination. Since there are no reports of possible hearing damage caused by an examination, an MRI examination during pregnancy should be carefully considered. However, if imaging diagnostics are necessary in the case of acute serious illnesses of the expectant mother (e.g., acute severe headaches), MRI is definitely preferable to an X-ray examination.

Please bring a current doctor's letter and your latest blood test results with you. Caffeinated drinks or performance-enhancing substances should be avoided on the day of the examination (if possible, for 24 hours beforehand). Potency-enhancing medications (e.g., Viagra) must be discontinued at least 36 hours before the examination.

When undergoing MR mammography, it is important to note that the examination should only be performed between the 6th and 12th day after the first day of your period. In the second half of the cycle, the mammary gland tissue changes due to the increasing influence of progesterone. As a result, healthy glandular tissue also absorbs contrast medium and can no longer be reliably distinguished from diseased tissue.

There is no reason why an accompanying person cannot be present during the examination. Patients who suffer from claustrophobia often benefit from having a familiar person present. Of course, the safety regulations and contraindications that apply to patients (metal, pacemakers, etc.) also apply to all persons present in the MRI scanner! Click here to learn more about the contraindications of MRI ...