What is an MRI of the thorax?
An MRI of the thorax, also known as the chest MRI, is an advanced imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the structures within the chest cavity. This MRI scan helps visualize the heart, lungs, blood vessels, mediastinum, and other soft tissues in the chest. Healthcare providers use this scan to diagnose several conditions, including heart problems, lung disease, tumours, and many more.
Why is an MRI of the thorax performed?
Healthcare providers generally recommend an MRI of the thorax to:
- Detect heart or blood vessel complications: This MRI is helpful to evaluate the heart’s structure and its function. It also assesses blood flow in major arteries and veins in the chest.
- Diagnose lung conditions: This MRI helps detect any abnormalities in the lungs, including infections, diseases, and tumours.
- Check for infections: This scan can help identify infections like pneumonia, abscess or fluid buildup.
- Analyse mediastinal structures: An MRI of the thorax provides detailed images of the mediastinum, which is the space between the lungs. This helps assess lymph node involvement, detect tumours, differentiate between cysts and solid masses, and evaluate vascular structures (such as the aorta or pulmonary vessels).
- Look for inflammation: This MRI scan also helps to detect inflammatory conditions like pericarditis (inflammation of the sac around the heart) and pleurisy (inflammation of the lining of the lungs).
Doctors may also recommend this MRI to plan surgical procedures.
How is an MRI of the thorax performed?
You will need to lie down on your back on a table that slides into the MRI machine. You will need to lie still during the whole test procedure. The magnetic waves may sound loud during the test. However, you may avail the option to listen to music, and you can also contact the technician through a signalling device in your hand. You might be given a contrast agent through an intravenous line in your hand, which helps provide better-quality pictures.
What does an abnormal MRI of the thorax indicate?
An abnormal MRI of the thorax may occur due to a wide range of conditions, such as:
- Pneumonia
- Abscess
- Tumors
- Pericardities
- Aneurysm
- Dissection
- Structural abnormalities in the heart
However, consult your doctor for a better understanding of your condition.
Fortunately, you can easily book a thorax MRI in Gurgaon because there are multiple thorax MRI centres in Gurgaon. So you don’t need to worry about its availability. The thorax MRI cost in Gurgaon may vary depending on the type of scan you opt for. Generally, thorax MRI prices in Gurgaon start from rupees 4750 only.
Frequently asked questions
What is an MRI of the thorax?
An MRI of the thorax is an imaging technique that captures detailed images of the thorax or the chest cavity to detect any abnormalities.
Why is an MRI of the thorax done?
An MRI of the thorax is usually performed to detect structural abnormalities, infections, inflammation, abscesses, tumours, and other conditions.
How long does an MRI of the thorax take?
An MRI of the thorax may take about 30-60 minutes.
Does an MRI of the thorax involve the use of a contrast agent?
An MRI of the thorax can be performed with or without contrast materials.