MRI with contrast

My 6 month check ups are always MRI to avoid the radiation associated with a CT Scan.  The contrast isn't the same as with a CT Scan and I have found no issues at all  When I had the contrast with a CT Scan I would feel lousy after and with the MRI nothing. Also when the contrast comes through it isn't the same feeling as with a CT Scan.  My dr likes MRI as there isn't any radiation with them

I actually have my 6 month check up one on 12/21

hope this helps

Hybridspirits said:

MRI with contrast

My 6 month check ups are always MRI to avoid the radiation associated with a CT Scan.  The contrast isn't the same as with a CT Scan and I have found no issues at all  When I had the contrast with a CT Scan I would feel lousy after and with the MRI nothing. Also when the contrast comes through it isn't the same feeling as with a CT Scan.  My dr likes MRI as there isn't any radiation with them

I actually have my 6 month check up one on 12/21

hope this helps

and yearly mammograms. So I have imaging every 6 months.  I  had a callback on my summer mammogram, so I had another one (it was ok they say, but I feel better knowing I have an MRI coming up).  Remember, it is not uncommon for a woman to have both breast and uterine cancers over the course of her lifetime.  Or at least that's what I was told by my gyn oncologist at a post op visit when I was whining about it all.

Are you planning on having breast MRIs instead of mammograms?  Since they both work differently, sometimes one picks up something the other doesn't.  I know it is more difficult to pick up changes with implants, so it seems an MRI is a good alternative.

sorry I can't answer your question about whether the contrast causes any physical damage.   I do my best to avoid things that might be harmful that I know I can avoid (like smoking and since breast cancer, I seldom consume any alcohol), but I think sometimes the benefit outweighs the risk.   I honestly believe that early detection can save lives rather than, for example, being able to palpate a lump in your breast because when it gets big enough to feel, it may have already metastasized (sure, some little ones metastasize early, too but it is rare).  I believe that mammogram I had in 2010 saved my life.  And I am obedient with getting the MRI because my oncologist orders it and I trust her. 

About CT's for breasts - I participated in a clinical trial in 2010 which was testing efficacy of CT's for picking up breast cancer (would a CT scan image something not seen on mammogram or MRI?).   I have no idea what the results of the study were or even if it's over.  I had one CT of my breasts and that was it.  I think the study was going to follow participants clinically, but I also have no idea for how long.    I have never heard of anyone having a breast CT so I'm thinking it wasn't useful.

Suzanne

Like the others said, each contrast is different.   I have had contrast with CT, PET, PET/CT and MRI.   The only contrast that I don't like is the one with just the CT scan.  It gives that warm feeling and makes my heart beat fast (or so I think).   With the PET/CT with contrast, I didn't get that feeling.   Nor with any of the other scans.

My best to you!

Kathy

P.S.  Love your photo! Love that smile!

There are many different contrasts, however gadolinium is most often used with MRI, It provides a clearer result.  I have had it 4 times with no ill effects. I was very vigilant though. I do have type 2 diabetes for about 2 years now, so very protective of my kidneys.

 Gadolinium poses a problem if  You are diabetic  with abnormal kidney function, or non diabetic with compromised kidneys due to any other reasons ,If you have had kidney problems even in the past, gadolinium should be refused.Just say no with no second thought,That's my opinion based on cases I have seen and heard of.

 better to be safe than sorry.

If you are having active kidney problems at the time of taking gadolinium most people  cannot drink- water -your way- out - of total kidney failure, regardless of what your doctor tells you , a sick kidney cannot process and evacuate  that contrast in time  to prevent further damage, You will be a dialisis patient, happens all the time  when a complete kidney function  test is not given ( just ) prior to  administration to rule out kidney problems.

With  healthy kidneys and a drink- water till -you- drop commitment for 2 days after, one  should be fine. Do your due diligience to self then go ahead with your MRI ,it is superior to any other method of scanning.

Nuff Love, Moli.