Re: Contrast Dye with MRI

[Guest guest]

Hi Jodi,

Figures that with all this talk about MRIs with dye/without dyes, I have to have

one in two weeks. I'm a bit afraid this time (haven't been afraid since the

first ones years ago). I'm allergic to Betadine and I can't remember if that's

one of the precursors for an allergic reaction to the dye. Plus, I have an

intrathecal pump and the last time they tried to do an MRI my pump trembled and

heated up to a very warm feeling.

They did use the lower magnet level for people with implanted thingies (I know,

my technical lexicon is impressive ;-), but because of a possible issue with the

pump's catheter, my doctor is insisting on this MRI. Last time they wanted one

(after the problematic MRI), they instead went for a myelogram - not sure which

is the lesser of the evils this time around.

All of the above is to ask about your mom's reaction to the dye. What allergies

does she have that may have led to the allergic reaction to the contrast dye?

I've read horror stories about anaphylactic shock and again, I'm not a happy

camper about being such a wuss or having a need for this MRI (thoracic and

lumbar).

Thanks for any information you don't mind sharing -

Kathy

Contrast Dye with MRI

I've had several MRIs with contrast. It's pretty much standard procedure with

TC. They do a series of scans without, pull you out of the machine, inject

dye,

and finish the series. I get an all-over flushed feeling but it goes away

within

seconds/minutes. My mom is allergic so she can't have contract. I think she

started to itch, which is the sign of allergy. Afterwards, drink lots of water

to flush your system and all should be good. It's nothing to worry about. The

Dr. may have changed his mind after the appointment and called in the order

for

contrast. It happens. And I think the Dr. was just being cautious, telling you

that he might not be able to see the tether. That can also happen. It did with

mine, and we're focusing on pain management rather than major (retether)

surgery.

Jodi

>If there is such a thing as phobias of hospitals and pharmaceuticals, then

>I definitely have it! But an MRI seemed pretty non-invasive. ..until the

>hospital called to say my son would need contrast dye with his MRI!!! They

said

>it would be necessary since he has had a previous back surgery. Our NS didn't

>order it with contrast, so I was surprised to get this information the day

>before the appt! I am curious what the experience is of others concerning

this

>matter.

>Also, we are paying for this MRI out of pocket until our deductible is

>met, which is pretty high, but this will probably put us there. Meanwhile,

our

>NS told us he probably won't even be able to tell with an MRI if our son's

>spinal cord is tethered or not. I'm just really starting to second guess this

>whole process...