Clinique Pasteur Tunis
Chest MRI
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Chest MRI

Chest MRI in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Chest MRI in Tunis: a complementary test of the mediastinum, chest wall and certain masses, often after a CT scan.

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What is it?

A chest MRI examines the contents of the chest other than the heart: the mediastinum (the central area between the two lungs), the chest wall, the pleura and the large blood vessels. The lung itself is mainly examined by CT scan. MRI is requested as a complement, when a mass needs to be better characterised, its spread to nearby tissues clarified, or when X-rays should be avoided (for example in a young patient or one who is monitored regularly). It can be combined with an MRI of the abdomen (chest-abdomen MRI). An injection of contrast agent (gadolinium) is often given. Several series of images are taken while you hold your breath for a few seconds.

When is it indicated?

Mediastinal mass

It helps determine the likely nature of a mass found on CT scan or X-ray (thymus, cyst, lymph node...).

Lesion of the chest wall or pleura

It shows the spread of a lesion to the nearby muscles, ribs or nerves.

Staging of certain cancers

Alongside the CT scan, it clarifies the relationship of a tumour with the organs and vessels of the chest.

Follow-up without X-rays

For repeated follow-up scans, it helps limit exposure to radiation.

Preparation

1Remove jewellery, watch, piercings, hair clips, bank cards and any metal object before entering the scanner room
2Tell us in advance about any pacemaker or defibrillator, implant (cochlear implant, neurostimulator, pump), surgical clip, heart valve, prosthesis or metal fragment: some are MRI-compatible, others are not
3Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be
4Let us know if you are afraid of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia): the team will support you and your doctor can prescribe a mild sedative
5If an injection is planned, tell us about any kidney disease, allergy or past reaction to a contrast agent; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested
6Be sure to bring your previous chest CT scan if you have one
7Fasting for a few hours may be requested if the abdomen is also examined

Procedure

1

You change in a cubicle and put your metal objects in a locker

2

You lie on your back, with a coil placed on your chest

3

You will be given breathing instructions: breathe in, breathe out, then hold your breath for a few seconds

4

If an injection is needed, the contrast agent (gadolinium) is given through a small drip in your arm during the examination

5

The scanner makes loud, repetitive noises while the images are being taken: headphones or earplugs are provided

6

You stay in contact with the team through a microphone and a call bell that you hold in your hand

7

After the examination, you can return to your usual activities straight away

Duration

About 30 to 45 minutes

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

No X-rays: MRI does not use ionising radiation
Not possible with a pacemaker, defibrillator or implant that is not MRI-compatible, or with a metal foreign body in the eye
Allergic reaction to gadolinium: rare, and usually mild (redness, itching)
In case of severe kidney failure, the gadolinium injection is avoided or adjusted by the doctor
During pregnancy, MRI is only performed if it is really useful, and usually without an injection
You may feel enclosed inside the tunnel; the examination can be stopped at any time

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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