MRI of the kidney
introduction
An MRI of the kidney is the best way to get a picture of the kidneys. It can be done either with or without a contrast agent. An MRI of the kidney is performed if the following kidney diseases are suspected:
- unclear mass of the kidney / kidney enlargement
- Kidney cancer
- Inflammation of the kidneys (e.g. inflammation of the renal pelvis)
- unclear high blood pressure
- Renal artery stenosis
What is the procedure for an MRI scan of the kidney?
Magnetic resonance imaging of the kidneys is currently the case best diagnostic means to represent the two organs. It is primarily used for Clarification of unclear spatial claims, the secondary findings or as part of a Ultrasound examination getting discovered. The magnetic field strength for assessing the kidneys is usually three Tesla. Magnetic resonance imaging, as MRI is also called, is performed lying on the back. Before the investigation is the Removal of all metallic objects important on the body. In this way, interference with the magnetic field is avoided.
If necessary, before the start Buscopan © given to calm the gastrointestinal activity. Consists Afraid of tight spaces, can be a fast acting Sedatives be taken. The examination couch "moves" into an open, well-ventilated tube. An video-assisted monitoring of the patient by the staff. This communicates via a loudspeaker system with the patient, who can answer at any time and draw attention to himself with a bell. During the examination, verbal communication is not possible due to the volume, so the bell serves as an alternative. Dem loud, rhythmic knocking of the MRI can be done with the help of a Hearing protection be prevented.
The patient should be during the examination stay calm and hold your breath briefly at the command of the staff. Contrast media can be administered through a vein if necessary. Is there a suspicion of a change in the urinary system, the kidney function is triggered with the help of a certain drug. In this way, for example, outflow obstacles in the lower urinary tract can be diagnosed.
Do i have to be sober
There is no compelling need to fast before the MRI scan. In some special cases, however, several hours of food abstinence should be observed. This usually applies less to an examination of the kidneys than to an image of the biliary tract and the gastrointestinal tract with a contrast medium. In such cases, the contrast agent is swallowed and now passes its physiological route through the digestive system. In individual cases, it should be clarified with the attending physician whether the examination must be carried out on an empty stomach.
Do I need contrast media?
Contrast media will have an MRI of the kidneys not absolutely necessary. Magnetic resonance tomography alone enables a good spatial representation of the kidneys and changes in inflammatory and tumorous processes. Furthermore, the inside of the kidney and the urinary tract can be assessed. But is it about to distinguish similar tissues and their changes, contrast agent is used. Also Masses and inflammation can be assessed even better in this way. The contrast medium uptake is different in healthy and pathologically altered tissue and can provide important information about the exact
Deliver happening. Another important indication is that Assessment of the urinary tract, so from Kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder.
In general, that Contrast media containing gadoline very well tolerated and is not radioactive. In contrast to X-ray contrast media, it contains no iodine and can therefore also be used with an iodine allergy. The contrast agent is via a venous access applied. With normal kidney function it will removed from the body in the urine in less than 24 hours. Occur only in a few cases allergic intolerance reactions compared to the applied contrast agent. Patients with a severe kidney disease and just before or after a liver transplant should be on a Refrain from a contrast agent examination.
How long does an MRI scan of the kidney take?
The Duration the investigation is on average about 20 to 40 minutes. The application of a Contrast agent Usually takes more time than an MRI scan alone. During the entire examination time, the staff can view the tube of the MRT machine using a video camera. If the patient wants to make himself known, he can press the bell. During the entire investigation, a as calm a body position as possible be respected. This ensures good image quality.
costs
The Cost of an MRI examination the kidneys are depending on the effort and the respective question. To clarify one medically justified suspicion, usually takes over the Health insurance the cost of diagnostics. If the MRI is performed at your own request and without a medical referral, you will have to pay the costs yourself.
The fee schedule for doctors applies to patients with private health insurance. Patient one statutory health insurance are billed according to the uniform evaluation standard.
In general, the cost of an MRI scan in the area of the pelvic organs or the abdomen (below the diaphragm to the pelvic floor) is based on the fee schedule for doctors 256 euros. A Surcharge of around 60 euros takes place at Use of contrast media or Change of positions according to the fee schedule for doctors. The maximum value for the services provided is a maximum of 350 euros.
Can you depict the bubble?
The bladder is localized in the pelvis. Your presentation can in particular with the help of an MRI scan of the pelvis occur and come among other things to rule out bladder cancer for use. Is the Assessment of the urinary tract in the foreground, the kidneys, urinary tract and bladder are shown in the MRI. A Magnetic resonance urography can with or without contrast agent respectively. Also at Assessment of kidney function the urinary bladder is imaged in the MRI. The administration of a diuretic promotes the excretion of water and allows observation of the urinary tract. In general, the Urinary bladder shown with every MRI of the abdominal cavity becomes.
