EXPLANATION OF TERMS USED IN OUR QUESTIONNAIRES AND INFORMATION GIVEN TO PATIENTS

Allergy: A reaction to common substances found either in the environment or medication.

Biopsy: Process of obtaining a specimen of tissue from a patient issue from living patients for diagnostic examination.

Cardiac pacemaker: An electrical implant that stimulates the heart muscle to maintain a normal heart rhythm.

Claustrophobic: A fear of being in a confined place. As an MRI machine is an open ended tube some people may find they are not comfortable in this confined space. If you are able to go in an elevator/lift you should be able to have your MRI scan without sedation. To help relax you during the scan we can also offer eye pads, music to listen to, earplugs and you can communicate with the MRT during the scan. If you are extremely claustrophobic you need to let us know prior to making the appointment so that we make arrangements for you to have sedation.

Contrast agent. A substance that may be given by mouth or by injection, that will show up on an CT or MRI image and show the difference between one type of tissue and another lying next to it. Different contrast agents are used for different examinations. You will complete a questionnaire prior to having any contrast to ensure that it safe for you to have it.

Creatinine: The level of a nitrogenous compound found in the blood that is representative of renal function. You may need to have a blood test prior to your examination to check your serum creatinine levels.

Computed Tomography imaging (CT or CAT scan): A diagnostic procedure using special x-ray equipment to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body and then produces images of cross sectional views of the scanned area.

Diabetes: Diabetes is a disease in which your blood glucose, or sugar, levels are too high. Glucose comes from the foods you eat. Insulin is a hormone that helps the glucose g machine is required to clean the blood and return the cleansed blood to the body

Interventional radiology: A Radiology specialty whereby Radiologists use various radiology techniques(such as x-ray, CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasounds) to place wires, tubes, or other instruments inside a patient to diagnose or treat a variety of conditions.

Needle biopsy: Using imaging to identify the abnormal area, a small needle is inserted to obtain a tissue biopsy. An example of this procedure is called the needle liver biopsy.

Intravenous: A method of administering medicine or a contrast agent by placing a small needle in a vein.

Magnetic field: The space around a magnetic object.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.

Medical Radiation Technologist: (MRT) A skilled medical professional who has received specialized education in the areas of radiation protection, patient care, radiation exposure, radiographic positioning and radiographic procedures. The MRT performing your examination will liaise with the Radiologist to ensure the highest quality examination is performed.    

Metal in the eye: If you have ever had an accident involving metal in the eye (as is common with welders, tradesmen etc) you will need to have an orbital x-ray to ensure that there is no residue, even if has been removed. As the MRI is a large magnet it would be dangerous to your eyesight if the scan proceeded without this check.

Musculoskeletal: Relating to the body's muscle and bone structures

Radiation: The process of giving off energy in the form of waves or particles. Some waves, such as x-rays, can penetrate the body.

Radiologist: A skilled specially trained doctor who analyses and interprets radiological images to diagnose disease. The Radiologist will view the images obtained during your examination and provide a written report to your referring doctor with the results including a diagnosis and any appropriate recommendations for treatment or further follow up. All of our examinations are reviewed by two radiologists. Radiologists are required to undergo specialized ongoing training in medical imaging and in the latest techniques, protocols and clinical standards

Rheumatoid Arthritis: A chronic, disabling and painful inflammatory disease which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction.

SLE:Lupus is a condition characterised by chronic inflammation of body tissues caused by autoimmune disease.

Nephrotoxis: Drugs that may cause damage to the kidneys such as the Antibiotics (Tobramycin or Gentamycin):