Medical imaging: MRI, CT and X-ray

Bring your ID, your physician's referral and any documents specified when booking. For reimbursed services, reception will clarify the correct referral type and eligibility documents.

Previous reports and imaging of the same region, ideally DICOM images, can be helpful. Bring the implant card or manufacturer documentation for any implanted devices before MRI.

ProLife's local protocol requires urea and creatinine results for contrast-enhanced MRI and CT, obtained no more than 48 hours before the examination. eGFR is requested if recommended by the physician.

These results do not replace the clinician's individual evaluation of renal function, previous reactions and whether contrast is appropriate. Non-contrast examinations do not automatically require the same tests.

Preparation differs between brain MRI, abdominal MRI, chest CT and abdominal or pelvic CT. Food, fluids and oral contrast instructions depend on the protocol. Do not stop metformin, anticoagulants or other medication on your own. Tell the team what you take.

Tell reception that you require an examination under CAS Vaslui. Staff will verify the investigation, referral, contracted services, eligibility documents and available appointment dates. See CAS appointment information.

It depends on the exact device and its approved MRI conditions. Tell the team about pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, stimulators, pumps, surgical clips, prostheses and suspected metallic foreign bodies in the eyes. Bring model and manufacturer documents. Some devices are MR Conditional only under specific technical conditions.

Describe any previous reaction to iodinated CT contrast or gadolinium-based MRI contrast, the agent if known, symptoms and treatment. A general statement of 'iodine allergy' does not characterise a previous contrast reaction.

Inform the team about kidney disease, dialysis, transplantation, acute kidney injury and relevant medication. Recent laboratory results do not replace individual medical risk assessment.

Report a confirmed or possible pregnancy before CT or MRI. With CT, ionising radiation exposure must be justified; with MRI, especially if gadolinium is considered, the physician weighs benefits, risks and alternatives.

For commonly used contrast agents, routine interruption of breastfeeding is generally not recommended by professional guidance, but tell the clinician which agent is planned and any special medical circumstances.

CT uses X-rays; MRI does not use ionising radiation. The choice depends on the body region and the clinical question. CT is often useful for lungs, bones and certain acute conditions; MRI can provide more detail for many soft tissues and neurological structures. CT examinations must be justified, with exposure optimised for the diagnostic task.

Tell reception before booking. MRI involves remaining still and produces loud noises; staff will explain communication and hearing protection. Additional arrangements may be needed for severe anxiety or pain. Do not assume sedation is available at the imaging centre; any such arrangements must be confirmed individually.

Duration depends on the number of regions, protocol and contrast. An MRI of one region commonly takes around 20–45 minutes, although some protocols take longer. CT acquisition is generally quicker, but preparation and checks can extend the overall visit. Reception confirms your arrival time and expected duration.

For MRI, you lie on the table and hear rhythmic scanning sounds; hearing protection is used. For CT, the table passes through the scanner ring, and you may be asked to hold your breath. Contrast injection can cause transient warmth or an unusual taste. Tell staff promptly about significant discomfort or unusual symptoms.

Tell reception if the patient is a child, has reduced mobility, needs transfer assistance or may have difficulty cooperating. The centre will explain access and assistance requirements. Anyone entering the controlled MRI area requires magnetic safety screening. Sedation, if arranged and medically indicated, has its own accompanying and driving restrictions.

Follow individual observation and hydration instructions. Notify staff about injection-site pain or swelling, rash, itching or unusual symptoms. Breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, fainting or other severe symptoms require emergency medical assistance; outside the centre, call 112.

A radiology and medical imaging specialist interprets the images and prepares the radiology report. Reception explains when and how your report and, when applicable, images will be released. Your treating physician places the findings in clinical context and advises on treatment.