The Average Cost of a Gadolinium-Enhanced MRI Procedure

The average cost of a simple MRI ranges between $400 to $3,500 as of November 2010.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is an imaging technology that uses a magnetic field to create a detailed image of the human body. This allows for improved diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

MRI

MRI technology was first used in the 1970s; and unlike traditional x-rays or CT scans, it does not use any form of radiation. One of the key strengths of an MRI lies in its ability to better delineate the muscle and tissue in the human body, and discern pathologic versus normal findings better than any radiographic technology in the market. In some cases, patients are injected with an intravenous dye such as gadolinum in order to produce clearer images. Gadolinum has paramagnetic properties and as a result aligns with the magnetic field that is present during an MRI procedure and thus creates higher resolution images.

Cost of an MRI with gadolinum contrast

The average cost of a simple MRI ranges between $400 to $3,500 as of November 2010. The price varies depending on the part of the body that is imaged. Additionally, the price also differs depending on the facility where a patient has his images taken. The price of an MRI with gadolinum will generally be higher than a simple MRI. Average prices will run between $1,200 to $4,000.

Payment Options

Generally, if a person has health insurance, the full price of the MRI will be covered. Patients who do not have insurance may qualify for discounts or be able to pay the bill in multiple intervals.

References

• CT Scan vs. MRI
• Compare MRI cost