Preparing for the examinations

Computed tomography (CT)

Depending on the clinical problem, the examination is carried out with or without using a contrast agent. The contrast agent is administered via a vein in the crook of the elbow, on the forearm or on the back of the hand (intravenous contrast agent). Computed tomography is not suitable for pregnant women.

If you are informed that a contrast agent is required when you make an appointment or during the consultation with the doctor in charge, we will need the following current laboratory values (not more than 3 months old):

• Serum creatinine (laboratory value) as a measure of kidney function
• TSH as a measure of thyroid function

For abdominal examinations you may need to drink contrast medium in addition to the intravenous contrast medium in order to properly visualise the stomach and intestines. If necessary, this will discussed when you make an appointment.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, magnetic resonance imaging)

MRI examinations are carried out with or without contrast medium, depending on the problem. The administration of contrast medium is decided before or during the examination. We therefore require the serum creatinine (laboratory value) as a measure of kidney function. The value should not be older than three months on the day of the examination.

Under certain circumstances, an MRI cannot be performed:

• in patients with a pacemaker or defibrillator
• with certain electronic devices in the body, e.g. cochlear implants, insulin pumps, pain/PCA pumps, pain and stimulation catheters
• older metallic surgical clips in the head
• metal splinters or metal parts in critical areas of the body
• in patients in early pregnancy (especially in the first 3 months)
• If in doubt, please notify our registration department in advance so that we can find an alternative to the MRI examination if necessary.

MRI under sedation

If you suffer from pronounced claustrophobia and a MRI examination in a standard (closed) MRI scanner is not possible, we can accommodate you with a semi-open MRI system available to you at our location in Gräfelfing. If this does not work for you, we propose a MRI examination with intravenous Dormicum® sedation if you are medically fit (see corresponding form).

Sonography (ultrasound)

Sonography of the abdominal organs

To optimise image quality, it is important that the examination is carried out on an empty stomach. We therefore ask you not to eat anything in the morning until your appointment and to drink no more than a small glass of liquid. If you suffer from diabetes and are following a special diet plan, please consult your doctor/GP in advance.

Digital X-ray

of spine, joints, lungs

No special preparation. X-ray examinations cannot be carried out on pregnant patients. X-ray examinations are performed and findings are discussed during the normal opening hours of the X-ray department.

X-ray examinations are usually carried out without an appointment during consultation hours. More complex X-ray examinations are by appointment only. You can find detailed information under: Making an appointment.