MRI Scan
I have been having hearing problems and was referred to an ENT consultant. He is sending me for an MRI scan to check for a neuroma. What is a neuroma?
A neuroma is a growth on a nerve. Your doctor wants to check the nerve called the acoustic nerve that travels from the brain to the ear to see if a small growth has developed on it. If this happens, it can cause deafness and may, in some cases, cause weakness of the facial movements as well as unsteadiness.
What is an MRI scan and what will it involve?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic scan which uses magnetic and radio waves to build up a computerised picture of any part of the body. The results of these pictures will help your doctor make a correct diagnosis of your hearing problem.
Prior to the procedure you will meet a radiographer or nurse who will explain the test and ask you a series of questions relating to your health. In particular, she will ask if you have had a pacemaker, artificial heart valve, clips, implants, or joint replacements or other metal in your body.
If you have, then it will not be possible to continue with the test.
You will be then asked to sign a consent form for the procedure. As the MRI machine contains a very powerful magnet, you will be asked to remove all metal items including watches, keys, jewellery, glasses, dentures and hearing aids. After you have put on a gown, you will be brought into the scan room and given a headset to put on that will play music during the test. You will then lie on a table that slides into the scanner.
Despite the headset, you will probably hear a repetitive banging noise, which is a normal part of the scanner's operation.
How long will the test take and are there any side effects?
The scan will take 15-30 minutes and is completely painless. As you will be in an enclosed space, you may feel a little claustrophobic. The best advice is to close your eyes, listen to the music and relax. MRI does not use ionising radiation and has no known side-effects. Some newer MRI scanners are not so claustrophobic as the equipment does not encase your head.
MARION KERR