NMR limb

With an NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), we image a limb by means of a magnetic field and radio waves. Thus, we obtain 3D images and can detect any abnormalities of the wrist, shoulder, knee,.... No X-rays are used in an NMR examination. The examination can be considered harmless.

Course of the examination

An NMR examination of a limb takes about 25 minutes and is not painful.

  • Because of the strength of the magnet, you may not approach the device with metal objects (coins, needles, jewelry, keys ...) or with magnetic cards (bank card, health insurance card, parking card ...). You can leave your belongings in the changing room.
  • In the examination room, you will be installed as comfortably as possible on the examination table. Your position depends on the part of the body to be examined. For the lower limbs, the feet will slide first into the tunnel, for the upper limbs the head will go first into the tunnel.
  • At the start of the examination, you'll slide slowly into the magnetic tunnel which is open at both the front and back. This tunnel is very well lit and ventilated.
  • The medical team is located outside the examination room. You can see them clearly through a window and through a camera. Through an intercom system they can hear you. During the examination you can always contact them with a push button.
  • During the examination you'll regularly hear knocking sounds.
  • You will be given headphones to protect you from these sounds and to listen to music.
  • You must not move at all 
  • When a contrast fluid is injected, you will feel a prick similar to a blood draw. The radiologist will determine if contrast must be administered.

The radiologist makes an initial interpretation of the images during the examination. After the final interpretation, he/she sends a report to the doctor who requested the examination. Only this doctor can discuss the results with you.

An NMR examination is only possible by appointment. Please always bring your identity card and the request from your doctor.

You must register in advance at the registration desk in the central entrance hall.

Preparation

Remove all metal objects and jewelry before starting the examination and leave them in the changing room. 

For this examination, you must first carefully fill out a complete questionnaire .

Important things to report for an NMR examination:

  • that you have a pacemaker or an artificial valve of the heart.
  • that you have undergone a major surgery.
  • that you have had surgery on the eye or brain.
  • that you are pregnant.

In all these cases, please notify the doctor or radiology nurse before the examination starts.

This examination is only possible by appointment. Please always bring your identity card, your doctor's prescription and any previous radiological examinations.

Aftercare

No specific aftercare is required.