Brain MRI in China

What the exam is

A brain MRI, also called a head MRI, uses a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce pictures of the brain. It does not use X-rays.

Gadolinium contrast may be injected, but it is not always needed. The ordering doctor decides.

What it is used for

Doctors commonly order this exam to assess:

• Stroke
• Brain tumours
• Injury and bleeding after trauma
• Causes of seizures
• Multiple sclerosis
• Infections
• Disorders of the pituitary gland
• Conditions of the eye and inner ear

This list describes how the exam is used in general. It is not advice about your situation. Whether you need this exam is a decision for a doctor.

How to prepare

• Remove all jewellery and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Some hospitals ask you to change into a gown, because some fabrics contain metallic fibres.
• Take your regular medication unless the hospital tells you otherwise.
• Rules on eating and drinking before an MRI vary between hospitals. We pass on the instructions for your appointment.
• You need to stay completely still while the images are taken.

What to tell the hospital beforehand

• Any device or metal in your body. Most orthopaedic implants pose no risk, but the magnetic field can make some medical devices malfunction.
• Kidney disease. If contrast is planned, the doctor assesses kidney function first.
• Pregnancy, or the possibility of it.
• Claustrophobia or anxiety. You can ask the doctor about a mild sedative, and you will need someone to take you home afterwards.

Limits and risks to know about

• Good images depend on staying perfectly still for the whole exam.

How we arrange it

You tell us the exam, the body area and when you plan to be in China. We reply with the hospital, the appointment date and a written quote. After the scan you receive your images as DICOM files and the radiologist's report in English, with the original Chinese report.

Read the full process →