What to Ask Your Doctor before an MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans have become extremely popular in the medical community, and for good reason. An MRI allows doctors to internally examine a patient without ever having to perform surgery. They can therefore detect problems within the body quickly and easily without performing an invasive procedure that could put a patient's life at risk.

However, MRI scans are themselves not without risk. The contrast agents that are used to sharpen MRI images contain a potentially toxic element, gadolinium, which may be harmful to some patients. It is important to ask your doctor some key questions about contrast agents and your health condition prior to having an MRI performed.

Do I Have a History of Kidney Problems?

People with functional kidneys can easily filter gadolinium from their bodies, eliminating the potential threat. Those with kidney problems or renal failure, however, cannot properly flush the gadolinium from their system and may be poisoned by it. Therefore, it is important to ask your doctor whether you have a personal or family history of kidney problems to determine if a gadolinium-based contrast agent would be a health risk.

What Are My Alternatives?

If you have a past or current kidney problem, it may be in your best interest to avoid an MRI altogether. Ask your doctor about different detection methods that could be used. You could inform the medical staff of your concerns regarding gadolinium-based contrast agents, and ask if there is a safer method that could be used in your case.

If you absolutely must have an MRI performed and there are no other alternatives that could be used to adequately diagnose your condition, ask your doctor about the possibility of performing dialysis immediately after the scan. A dialysis machine can effectively perform the function of your kidneys by filtering toxins out of your system and expelling them from the body.

Contact Us

If you or someone you love has experienced health complications from exposure to a gadolinium-based contrast agent, don't hesitate to contact the gadolinium attorneys of Williams Kherkher today at 800-761-3187 for sound legal advice and assistance with your case.