MRI Scans
Next MRI: 12 Sep 08
Post-Op MRIs:
11 July 08
09 May 08
07 Mar 08
04 Jan 08
09 Nov 07
03 Oct 07
31 Aug 07
23 July 07
29 Jun 07
01 Jun 07
30 Mar 07
02 Feb 07
01 Dec 06
27 Sep 06
19 July 06
22 May 06
24 Mar 06 (PET)
17 Mar 06
20 Jan 06
16 Nov 05
21 Sep 05
27 July 05
23 June 05
6 May 05
3 Mar 05
7 Jan 05
12 Nov 04
10 Sep 04
12 Jul 04
10 May 04
6 Feb 04 |
MRI Scans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a powerful tool in the war against cancer. An MRI is used to trap structural changes, such as those brought on by tumor growth or the effects of radiation. PET scans produce images that are shaded as a function of glucose uptake. The MRI procedure involves the removal of all metal from my person, such as glasses, cell phone, rings, watch, wallet and my prayer pager. I then mount the table, and a number of straps and pads are placed around my head to help secure a static position during the scan. Ear plugs are used to attenuate the noise of the machine, and blankets mitigate the room's glacial temperature. The challenge is to be still during the 25 minutes of the first part of the MRI, which is complicated by the fact that my face always demands to be scratched during a MRI. I just have to ignore these interrupts. The "open MRI" configuration is a preferred alternative to the full torpedo enclosures of the past.
The clanging noise begins, and after the magnetic percussion stops, the technician enters the room and administers the Magnevist contrast agent. A skilled tech can compensate for persons who have covert veins (such as I do), with the use of a small needle and a slow injection of the Magnevist over about a four minute period. Reinsertion into the machine follows and the MRI concludes after 15 minutes or so. Next, I return to the lobby where the film is delivered to me straightaway. Images are also available on CD.
It is important to establish and maintain continuity by staying with the same imaging facility, same MRI equipment and same radiologist. The goal is to generate a database of scans and reports that can be utilized by the doctor familiar with your situation to connect the dots much more quickly that someone who is not aware of the fine details of your case. My MRIs are accomplished on a bi-monthly basis, and my radiologist conducts a study following each MRI, looking back in time with a fully briefed eye to trap any changes that might represent a tumor recurrence. All of this is a major lesson learned.
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