Brain MRI (Without Contrast)

What it is

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to build detailed cross-sectional images of soft tissue — in this case, the brain. Unlike a CT scan, it does not use radiation. "Without contrast" means the scan is done without an injected dye; a doctor may separately order a version "with contrast," or "with and without," when a dye-enhanced image is needed to see certain structures more clearly.

Why it is done

• To investigate symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, vision changes, or unexplained weakness or numbness
• To look for the cause of a stroke, or to check for one after symptoms have resolved
• To evaluate a head injury or to follow up on a condition that was already diagnosed

What to expect

The scan itself is painless, though the machine is loud and patients lie still inside a narrow tube for 30 to 60 minutes. Because the machine uses a strong magnet, patients are screened beforehand for metal implants, certain pacemakers, and other devices that aren't MRI-safe. No sedation is typically needed for adults, though people who are uncomfortable in enclosed spaces should mention that when scheduling.

Questions worth asking

• Is a "with contrast" or "with and without contrast" scan being ordered instead, and does that change the price?
• Will this be billed as an outpatient scan, or as part of an inpatient stay?
• Is there a lower-cost, in-network imaging center nearby, separate from a hospital's own radiology department?