Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): MRI Contrast Injection
Technical/medical term: Injection, gadoterate meglumine, 0.1 ml (HCPCS Code: A9575)

Summary:

The injection of gadoterate meglumine, commonly referred to as an MRI contrast injection, involves administering a special dye to enhance the clarity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. This contrast agent helps highlight blood vessels, tissues, and organs more clearly, allowing for more accurate diagnosis.

Purpose:

The procedure is primarily used to:

• Enhance the visibility of blood vessels, tissues, and organs.
• Diagnose and monitor various medical conditions such as tumors, vascular diseases, and brain disorders.
• Improve the accuracy and efficacy of MRI scans.

Indications:

This procedure is often indicated for:

• Patients exhibiting symptoms of tumors, brain abnormalities, and vascular diseases.
• Individuals requiring high-detail imaging for surgical planning or monitoring of known medical conditions.
• Patients with inconclusive or unclear MRI results without contrast.

Preparation:

• Patients are generally advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Disclosure of any allergies, particularly to contrast materials, is essential.
• Certain medications may need to be adjusted or paused prior to the injection.
• Hydration is encouraged unless otherwise specified by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description:

1. Informed consent is obtained.
2. The patient is positioned on the MRI scanner table.
3. An IV line is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm.
4. Gadoterate meglumine is slowly injected through the IV line.
5. During the MRI scan, contrast-enhanced images are taken.
6. The IV line is removed post-scan.

Tools and Equipment:

• MRI machine
• IV line and injection syringe containing gadoterate meglumine

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Usually not required, but mild sedation may be offered for anxious patients.

Duration:

The actual injection takes a few minutes, but the entire MRI procedure may last between 30-60 minutes.

Setting:

The procedure is performed in a radiology department, typically within a hospital or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel:

The team usually includes:

• Radiologist
• Radiologic technologist
• Nurse

Risks and Complications:

Common risks:

• Mild allergic reactions (itching, rashes)
• Discomfort or pain at the injection site

Rare risks:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (extremely rare, primarily in patients with chronic kidney disease)

Benefits:

• Improved diagnostic accuracy due to clearer imaging.
• Enhanced ability to detect and monitor abnormalities.
• More targeted treatment planning.

Recovery:

• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• It is advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast material from the body.
• Any discomfort at the injection site typically resolves within a few hours.

Alternatives:

• MRI without contrast, though it may not provide as clear or detailed images.
• Other imaging modalities such as CT scans or ultrasounds, depending on clinical indication.
• Each alternative has its pros and cons which should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Patient Experience:

• Mild discomfort may be felt at the injection site.
• Some patients may feel a cool sensation as the contrast material is injected.
• The MRI scan itself involves lying still in a narrow tube, which may cause claustrophobia in some patients, managed with relaxation techniques or mild sedation.