How is the Gadolinium injection given for an MR imaging exam?
If an MR exam does require the use of a Gadolinium injection, a small needle connected to an intravenous line is usually inserted into the patient’s arm or hand. A special saline solution is first dripped in to keep the vein from clotting. Then typically, about two-thirds through the exam, a contrast agent called “Gadolinium” will be administered through the intravenous line. At the time of the injection, a patient may feel a cool sensation going up his or her arm. As with anything taken into the body, there is a very slight chance of an allergic reaction.. For more information on contrast injections, please see the section on General Information About Contrast (“Dye”) Used in Medical Imaging Examinations.
If an MR exam does require the use of a Gadolinium injection, a small needle connected to an intravenous line is usually inserted into the patient’s arm or hand. A special saline solution is first dripped in to keep the vein from clotting. Then typically, about two-thirds through the exam, a contrast agent called “Gadolinium” will be administered through the intravenous line. At the time of the injection, a patient may feel a cool sensation going up his or her arm. As with anything taken into the body, there is a very slight chance of an allergic reaction. Back to top.
