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Because of the length of the procedures, approximately 45 minutes, MRI scans are not normally used in emergency situations. Although often provided with headphones playing music, the patient hears periodic loud banging during the scan. Patients may be advised not to not eat or drink before the scan, particularly if a contrast material is to be used.ĭuring the head and neck MRI procedure, the patient lies on the examination table which moves through the MRI unit several times, capturing images from the magnetic signals. Sometimes a contrast material, typically gadolinium, is administered intravenously prior to the scan to highlight the targeted area. In some cases, the procedure can be tailored to accommodate the specific situation, but for some patients, for example those with pacemakers, an alternative imaging test must be used. Patients must advise their physicians about any implants or devices. Prior to a head and neck MRI scan, patients should remove all metal clothing and accessories, including jewelry, eyeglasses, and hair clips since these may interfere with the magnetic field. An MRI scan enables the physician to examine nearly every type of structure, including bone, cartilage and soft tissue through one noninvasive test. This test does not involve any exposure to ionizing radiation, making it safer than some other diagnostic tests. Benefits of a Head and Neck MRIĪn MRI scan is the most sensitive type of imaging test currently available, detecting abnormalities that cannot be seen with the use of others procedures. Head and neck MRI scans are also administered to diagnose and stage certain types of cancer. Physicians also use the MRI scan to detect brain abnormalities in patients with behavioral or cognitive changes, such as dementia, or with severe headaches or seizures. Certain disorders of the brain or pituitary gland.Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).Some of the abnormalities investigated or diagnosed through the use of a head and neck MRI are: There are many reasons the doctor may want an MRI of the head and neck administered. Once the images are created, they can be viewed on a computer monitor, copied to a CD or transmitted electronically. A head and neck magnetic resonance imaging scan, or MRI, uses a magnetic field, radiofrequency impulses and a computer to produce detailed images of the organs, soft tissues, and bones within the head and neck region.