Costs of a head MRI | Examination of the skull and brain using MRI

Costs of a head MRI

The costs for an MRI examination of the head are usually covered by the statutory and private health insurance companies if the doctor has given the appropriate indication. Depending on the time and effort involved and the place where the examination is performed, they amount to between 400 and 1,000 euros for privately insured persons. If the MRI of the head is performed with contrast medium, the costs are higher than for a simple MRI.

MRI of the head in children

Magnetic resonance imaging of the head can also be performed in children. Since there is no radiation exposure, it is less dangerous than computer tomography or x-rays. An MRI of the head may be necessary in children if malformations of the head during the growth phase are to be detected or excluded.

An MRI examination is also suitable for detecting possible injury consequences of a fall or other accident, as it can, for example, identify a craniocerebral trauma and reveal possible bleeding. In children, head MRI also serves to identify the degree of brain maturation and from this, conclusions can be drawn about age-related development or a possible developmental disorder. In small children it is helpful if one parent stays in the examination room during the examination and possibly lies on the couch on his or her stomach, which is driven into the MRI tube. In this way, the child’s possible fear can be taken away and it can be ensured that meaningful pictures can be taken, since the child must lie very still for this.

Complications

Since magnetic resonance imaging, unlike computed tomography, does not use radiation, the consequences of the examination are very small. If all precautions are observed and all metallic foreign bodies are removed, no side effects are to be feared in a normal MRI examination. However, tattoos or make-up on the skin may cause heat to be generated and result in slight skin irritation. During the first three months of pregnancy, expectant mothers should only have an MRI examination in emergencies due to possible complications.When contrast medium is used, allergic skin reactions or discomfort and circulatory problems can rarely occur.