MRI with Contrast Enhancement

Contrast‑enhanced MRI is a precise, modern method that allows detailed assessment of organs and tissues and reveals changes not visible on standard MRI. Gadolinium‑based agents increase image contrast, enabling visualization of even minimal abnormalities.

Why perform contrast‑enhanced MRI?

• Differentiation of benign versus malignant lesions.
• Determining exact tumor size and margins.
• Detection of metastases.
• Post‑operative spine evaluation.
• Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
• Assessment of complex injuries: ligaments, nerves, muscles.

What does contrast‑enhanced MRI show?

• Tumors and metastases with invasion and vascularity assessment.
• Active inflammation, abscesses, post‑operative changes.
• Demyelinating lesions (MS) with contrast enhancement.
• Vascular malformations, thrombosis, perfusion disorders.
• Scarring, fibrosis, perineural and perivascular involvement.

Preparation

• Typically no special preparation; remove all metal items.
• Inform us about contrast allergies, implants, pacemaker.
• Creatinine/eGFR check may be recommended by your physician.
• Hydrate adequately; bring previous imaging reports.

Procedure

• Contrast is administered as a bolus or gradually via injector.
• Remain still during scanning.
• Pain‑free exam; mild warmth or tingling may occur.
• Duration: 20–40 minutes.

Precautions

• Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min) — restricted based on indications.
• Contrast allergy — inform your physician.
• Non‑MRI‑compatible implants — notify in advance.
• Pregnancy — assessed individually.

Equipment and sequences

• High‑field 1.5T MRI with injector for DCE studies.
• T1/T2, fat‑sat, DWI/ADC, DCE perfusion as clinically indicated.
• Expert radiology report within ~2 hours.