Preparation for an MRI scan

MRI scans cannot be performed on persons:

• with a pacemaker
• with electronic implants (e.g. neurostimulator, cochlear implant)
• with vascular clips in the brain, unless the neurosurgeon confirms MR compatibility
• with metallic foreign bodies in the eye (e.g. spurs)
• with an insulin pump or glucose sensor (CGM) - the sensor must be removed before the examination

Additional limitations and cautions

• MRI scanning is not recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding women may be examined - if contrast medium is used, breastfeeding should be discontinued for 24 hrs.
• Metal implants (e.g. joint replacements, staples, splints) do not matter if they have been in the body for more than 6 weeks.
• Claustrophobic patients and those with significant pain may undergo MRI after receiving premedication from their physician.
• Diabetic patients with CGM sensor: sensor must be removed prior to examination (we recommend coordinating the appointment with the sensor replacement)

What to take with you?

• a valid application form for the MRI scan
• health insurance card
• medical reports and findings (if available)
• if necessary, image documentation (on USB or via ePACS)

General preparation

1. Ensure adequate fluid intake - come hydrated
2. Special preparation is required for some types of MRI:

MRI of the abdomen (liver, pancreas, kidneys)

• 4 hours before the examination: do not eat
• 2 hours before the examination: do not drink

MRI of the prostate

Two to three days before the examination:

• Gluten-free diet - eating foods low in fiber and insoluble components (no whole grain breads, legumes, raw fruits/fresh vegetables).

The evening before the examination and the morning of the examination:

• Rectal emptying - the patient can insert a glycerin suppository (helps to empty the rectum, which improves image quality).

On the day of the examination:

• Do not eat or drink coffee for at least 4 hours before the examination. Liquids (water, tea, herbal teas) can be drunk without restriction.

MR enterography (bowel examination)

The day before the examination:

• A light breakfast and lunch excluding meat (only meat broth is suitable), dairy products and foods containing fibre (e.g. vegetables, cereals).
• Drink 1.5-2 litres of still liquid between 12:00 and 20:00.

On the day of the examination:

• Take regular medication.
• Do not eat, drink, smoke.
• Arrive 1 hour before the appointment at the MRI department.
• Drink 1.5 litres of fluid with sorbitol in about 40 minutes before the examination.
• Buscopan i.v. is given during the examination to cause temporary impaired accommodation (blurred vision). This condition may persist for up to 12 hours.
• It is necessary to be accompanied when leaving the workplace! After the examination, it is forbidden to drive motor vehicles, operate machinery and work at heights.

Course of the MRI examination

• Before the examination, the staff will inform you about the course of the examination and possible risks and contraindications.
• You will confirm your consent to the examination by signing. For minors under 18 years of age, both legal guardians must sign the consent for the application of the contrast medium. You can download the informed consent here.
• The MRI scan takes place lying down (usually supine) in the tunnel of the machine for 20-50 min depending on the type of scan.
• Noise during the examination is muffled by headphones with music or earplugs.
• The patient is not allowed to move - instructions are given through a microphone as needed.
• In some cases, a contrast agent is administered (abdominal, prostate, bowel, breast examination).
• A detailed description of the examination procedure can be found here.

Post-examination regimen

• After the examination, you can return to your normal routine.
• If a contrast agent has been administered, stay in the waiting room for about 10 minutes to monitor for any allergic reaction. Drink more fluids for the rest of the day. It is recommended to discontinue breastfeeding for 24 hours.

Results of the examination

Medical report

• Original findings are sent to the referring physician.
• A free copy can be picked up with proof of identity (ID, passport, power of attorney) on weekdays until 5:00 pm. Download the power of attorney here.

Image documentation

• Issued on a USB stick or QR code at the request of the patient or doctor.
• The price is 150 CZK/examination.

Electronic sending

• Free via ePACS
• Requests from healthcare facilities should be sent to: rokycanova@multiscan.cz.