Radiology in Niš: MRI, CT scans, ultrasound and X-rays

X-rays and CT scans use X-ray radiation. Under radiation protection rules, a doctor assesses whether such a scan is justified. That is why you should bring a referral or recommendation from your doctor, stating the area to be scanned and the reason for the scan. For MRI and ultrasound, a doctor's recommendation is also useful, because the radiologist uses it to choose the scanning technique and to assess whether contrast is needed. Check when booking whether you can come for your examination without a referral.

No single method is right for every examination. The choice depends on the reason for the scan and the doctor's assessment. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves, without X-ray radiation, and shows soft tissues in detail, such as the brain, spinal cord, discs, ligaments and cartilage. A CT scan (MSCT) uses X-rays, takes less time and is often chosen for the lungs, bones, injuries and blood vessels. In the case of sudden and severe symptoms, do not wait for a booked appointment: call an ambulance on 194.

X-rays and MSCT (CT) scans use X-ray radiation. The dose from a plain X-ray is low, and the dose from a CT scan is higher, because a large number of cross-sectional images are taken. Bone densitometry uses a very low dose. That is why a scan is done when the doctor judges that the benefit of the result outweighs the risk, and for children a method without radiation is chosen whenever possible. Always tell us before the scan if you are or might be pregnant. Ultrasound and MRI do not use X-ray radiation.

The contrast agent is most often given into a vein in the arm during the scan, to show the blood vessels and certain abnormalities more clearly. Different types of contrast are used for MRI and for CT. During a CT scan, a brief feeling of warmth in the body or a metallic taste in the mouth is common while the contrast is being given. Before the examination, a recent creatinine test, which shows how well the kidneys are working, is usually needed, and in severe kidney disease contrast is given only after a doctor's assessment. You will be told when you book whether you need to fast. Tell us in advance about allergies, previous reactions to contrast, asthma, kidney disease, an overactive thyroid and diabetes. If you notice a rash, itching or swelling after the examination, contact a doctor, and if you have difficulty breathing, call an ambulance on 194. The doctor assesses whether contrast is needed.

The radiology price list includes examinations most often done in babies and children, such as cranial ultrasound through the fontanelle, hip ultrasound and X-ray bone age assessment. For children, ultrasound and MRI are preferred whenever possible, because they do not use X-ray radiation. For an MRI scan, the patient has to lie still for quite a long time, which is often difficult for young children. Check when booking whether your child's examination can be done and how. Give your child's age and the reason for the scan, so that the examination can be properly planned.