Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA) are scans that allow doctors to spot abnormalities in tissues, blood vessels and organs. A MRI contrast agent, possibly gadolinium, is injected into the patient to improve the quality of the images allowing the doctor a great chance of spotting a disease. Unfortunately, recent studies show a link between gadolinium and the potentially deadly nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), also known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy. This disease, which causes hardening and tightening of the skin, eyes, joints and organs, developed in people who had preexisting kidney problems.

Before you undergo a MRI or MRA, it is important to tell your doctor of any existing kidney conditions. Those with kidney problems have difficulty flushing out gadolinium after a MRI or MRA, which requires a much larger dose of the contrast agent. It is also important, because of the strong magnetic field in the room, to let your doctor know if you have a pacemaker, dentures, joint replacement, hearing aid, insulin pump, heart valve prosthesis or any other item that may be hazardous in the MRI. It is also important to let the MRI technologist know if you are or might be pregnant.

Prior to the exam, you can eat as you normally would and take any medicine needed. You will be asked to wear a hospital gown once arriving to the radiology department. For your safety, objects that can be attracted to magnets should be removed before entering the room. Items that are prohibited from the scanning area include keys, watches, jewelry, glasses, belt buckles, coins, credit cards and money clips.