Often without contrast
Many joint and spine exams are done without an injection. Disc herniations, ligament tears and a lot of brain anatomy are visible on the standard sequences.
Often with contrast
- Looking for a tumour, or checking one after treatment.
- Infection or active inflammation.
- Some liver, breast and pituitary protocols.
- MR angiography, when the blood vessels are the question.
Your referral should say if contrast is planned. If it does not, the radiologist can still add it after seeing the first pictures. You should be asked before it is given. A clinic that prices contrast as a surprise extra on the day is a reason to ask what the original protocol included.