What everyone needs to know

MRI: What is allowed in the “tube” and what is not?

If you are unsure, always consult a doctor before undergoing an MRI scan.(Bild: ihorvsn - stock.adobe.com)

There are many uncertainties surrounding imaging examinations, especially in the run-up to an MRI scan. Should you eat beforehand or not? Does a tattoo cause problems - or not? And what about cosmetics? We eliminate ambiguities and take away patients' uncertainty.

You have an appointment for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan and ask "Dr. Google" what you can and cannot do beforehand. You are surprised to read that you shouldn't wear make-up or drink coffee. Tattoos could even be dangerous. Tips on implants and prostheses add to the confusion. We therefore wanted to know from a safe source what is "allowed in the tube" and asked Prim. Priv.-Doz. Dr. Iris Chemelli-Steingruber, MBA, MSc, specialist in radiology, Rudolfinerhaus, Vienna.