Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a test that does not use X-rays. MRI utilizes radio frequency waves in a strong magnetic field to generate images. This is a test that can sometimes require a contrast agent injection, gadolinium, which does not contain iodine and which will allow an enhanced analysis of lesions and organs. This test is highly safe and has no side effect. Very few side effects are reported with gadolinium.
The main contraindications for a magnetic resonance examination are the presence of a pacemaker, cochlear implant, metal material in orbital regions, and some intracranial catheters or surgical clips that were used many years ago. Recent surgical equipment is compatible with magnetic resonance equipments.
Unlike CT-Scan, which allows the simultaneous evaluation of multiple organs, magnetic resonance is a last-ditch examination, focused on a specific organ, to characterize a lesion whose nature has remained undetermined by other terms (e.g., atypical kidney or liver lesion) or local and regional extension of rectal and uterine cervix neoplasm.