Chest magnetic resonance imaging is a non-invasive imaging exam that allows highly accurate visualization of the lungs, thoracic vessels, chest wall, pleura, mediastinum and other soft tissues of the thoracic cavity. It is particularly useful for characterizing lesions that are not clearly defined by CT or X-ray.
What is Chest Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Chest magnetic resonance imaging (or thoracic MRI) is an exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to obtain high-resolution images of thoracic structures. Although it is not the first-line exam for lung assessment (unlike CT), MRI is extremely useful for studying mediastinal lesions, chest wall masses, vessels, complex pleural effusions, tumors and inflammatory or infectious processes.
What is the price of Chest MRI?
The price of chest magnetic resonance imaging is €275 when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If chest MRI is performed through ADSE, the patient only pays a fee 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. In the case of chest MRI, the protocol price is €220.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you use.
Learn more about MRI prices.
How is it performed?
The patient is positioned lying down, with the chest inside the appropriate coil. Images are acquired in different planes, with and without contrast, according to the clinical indication. In many cases, intravenous contrast (gadolinium) is required to improve visualization of structures and tissue differentiation.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
Earplugs are provided to reduce perception of the equipment noise.
The exam may last between 30 and 45 minutes. It is necessary to remain still during the procedure. Breathing may be guided at certain moments to reduce motion artefacts.
What does it detect?
Chest MRI can detect:
- Mediastinal masses (e.g., thymoma, lymphoma);
- Tumors of the chest wall or pleura;
- Vascular lesions (e.g., aneurysms, dissections);
- Diaphragmatic or chest wall abnormalities;
- Inflammatory complications (e.g., abscesses, organized effusions);
- Study of congenital thoracic anomalies;
- Assessment of the extent of thoracic neoplasms;
- Among others.
When is it indicated?
Chest magnetic resonance imaging is indicated for:
- Study of mediastinal and chest wall masses;
- Non-invasive vascular assessment (when CT with iodinated contrast cannot be performed);
- Study of pleural lesions and complex effusions;
- Assessment of tumors with invasion of the chest wall;
- Situations in which CT is contraindicated (e.g., iodine allergy, pregnancy);
- Diagnosis and characterization of congenital thoracic anomalies;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for Chest MRI
Before undergoing MRI at NRD, please consider the following factors:
| Topic | Guideline |
| Exam Prescription (paper form) | You must bring the Exam Prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. For exams with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually necessary (confirmed upon scheduling). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential medication with a minimal 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 need to be removed before the exam. |
| Makeup | Do not wear makeup, as some products may interfere with the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopedic prostheses, bring documentation describing their material and composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform the clinic if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform the clinic if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform them if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform the clinic if you have orthodontic appliances. A test may be required to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g., cochlear implants). The exam should be performed in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technician responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be available for you to activate if needed.
You must remain still during the exam to ensure image quality.
The entire NRD team will be available to answer any questions you may have.
After the exam, you may resume your normal routine.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper format at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take home a CD with the images.
Where to do it?
MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (Next to Praça de Espanha)