Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, highly accurate imaging exam that allows detailed visualisation of the organs, tissues and internal structures of the human body. It is a safe exam that does not use ionising radiation and is frequently used for the diagnosis and follow-up of various pathologies.
What is it?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a diagnostic imaging exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to produce high-resolution images of the inside of the body. The exam is performed in a safe, comfortable and painless way.
It allows the detailed study of organs, joints, blood vessels, muscles, soft tissues and the central nervous system, among other structures, without the use of radiation.
What is the price of an MRI?
At NRD, most MRI examinations cost €275 (private price), with some exceptions (Abdomino-pelvic MRI – €500, Uro MRI – €500, Angio MRI – €360 and MRCP – €305).
However, you can undergo the exam through several agreements, including:
- ADSE (the user pays only the copayment, usually €30 or, in rare cases, €50), IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP.
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, among others. The price varies according to the insurance you use.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP and other health plans. The price varies according to the plan you use.
- Protocols and special prices – NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For MRI, this price is generally around €220, except for abdomino-pelvic MRI (€350), Uro MRI (€350) and Angio MRI (€275).
How is it done?
The patient is positioned on a table that slides into the MRI scanner, which is open at both ends. The area of the body to be examined is centred in a specific coil adjusted to the region under study.
Keeping still throughout the exam is essential to ensure image quality.
If necessary, an intravenous contrast agent (gadolinium-based) will be administered to highlight certain structures.
We will provide earplugs to reduce the perception of noise from the equipment.
What does it detect?
MRI can identify structural or functional changes in different systems and regions of the body, such as:
- Tumours, nodules or masses;
- Aneurysms, thrombosis or vascular malformations;
- Inflammatory or infectious diseases;
- Lesions of ligaments, tendons, muscles and joints;
- Disc herniations and alterations of the spinal cord;
- Neurological diseases such as stroke, multiple sclerosis or Alzheimer’s disease;
- Abdominal, pelvic, breast, cardiac and other pathologies.
In which cases is it indicated?
MRI is indicated for the study of various clinical conditions, including for example:
- Spinal pathologies (disc herniations, spinal cord changes, tumours, etc.);
- Neurological diseases (Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain tumours);
- Musculoskeletal conditions (tendinitis, ligament tears, disc herniations, occult fractures);
- Oncological pathologies (breast, prostate, liver, kidneys, bones, soft tissues);
- Cardiac assessment (myocardial infarction, myocarditis, congenital heart disease);
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis);
- Traumatic or degenerative lesions;
- Study of internal organs (spleen, pancreas, uterus, ovaries, etc.);
- Treatment monitoring;
- Surgical planning;
- Post-operative follow-up;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for MRI
| Topic | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Exam prescription (paper form) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper form. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. For exams with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually required (to be confirmed when booking). |
| Early arrival | Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take important and unavoidable medication with a minimum amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g. earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hairpins, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Previous exams / Tests / Information | Bring previous imaging exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Make-up | Do not wear make-up, as some products may interfere with the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring documentation with the description and composition of the material. |
| Hearing aids | Inform us if you use a hearing aid, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform us if you use a dental prosthesis, as it may need to be removed before the exam. Also inform us if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform us if you have orthodontic braces. A compatibility test may be necessary before MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI exams on patients with pacemakers or certain implantable devices (e.g. cochlear implants). In these cases, the exam should preferably be carried out in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the entire MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technologist responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be available for you to activate if needed.
You should remain still during the exam to ensure high-quality images.
The entire NRD team will be at your disposal to answer any questions you may have.
After the exam, you can return to your normal daily activities.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI report within up to 7 days after the exam, by e-mail or on paper at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take home a CD with the images.
Where can it be done?
MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070-060 Lisbon
(Next to Praça de Espanha)