Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the ears is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging exam that allows accurate assessment of the inner ear structures, auditory canals and adjacent regions such as the cerebellum and brainstem. It is important in diagnosing the causes of hearing loss, tinnitus or vertigo.
What is an Ear MRI?
Ear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to produce high-resolution images of the cochlea, auditory nerve, semicircular canals and adjacent structures such as the brainstem and pons. It allows the detection of changes that are not evident on computed tomography (CT) or simple hearing tests.
What is the price of an Ear MRI?
The price of an ear MRI is €275 when performed privately. However, you can undergo the exam through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: In the case of an ear MRI performed through ADSE, the patient only pays a copayment of €30;
- 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 and other insurers.
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP and other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For ear MRI, the protocol price is €220.
The price varies according to the health system or insurance you wish to use.
Find out more about the price of MRI exams.
How is it performed?
The patient is positioned lying down, with the head immobilised in a dedicated coil designed to focus on the ears and internal auditory canals. The equipment acquires very thin slices with high anatomical detail.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
Intravenous contrast may be administered, especially in cases of suspected schwannomas or tumours of the cerebellum or cerebellopontine angle.
During the exam it is essential to remain completely still.
Earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of the scanner noise.
The duration varies according to the protocol, usually between 30 and 45 minutes, and may be longer if contrast is used.
What does it detect?
Ear MRI allows accurate identification of:
- Vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma);
- Lesions of the cerebellopontine angle or cerebellar tumours;
- Changes in the internal auditory nerve;
- Labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis and inflammatory processes;
- Complications of chronic otitis media, cholesteatoma or extended mastoiditis;
- Vascular diseases, including arterial stenosis or venous thrombosis;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Ear MRI may be indicated in cases of:
- Persistent unilateral or asymmetric hearing loss;
- Pulsatile or unilateral tinnitus;
- Persistent or recurrent vertigo with no clear cause;
- Assessment of a suspected tumour in the cerebellopontine angle or acoustic nerve;
- Ear pain with suspected inner ear pathology;
- Pre-operative planning for ear surgery or hearing implants;
- Among others.
Preparation for Ear MRI
Before having an MRI at NRD, please take into account the following:
| 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 / Info | Bring previous 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 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 you have an Ear MRI?
Ear 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)