Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a significant breakthrough in medical technology. This
procedure is painless and does not require surgery or x-ray radiation. MRI allows physicians to
look inside your body with precision, aiding in early diagnosis of various illnesses. MRI works by
creating a magnetic field, sending radio waves into your body and measuring the response with
a computer. This makes a series of detailed images of the inside of your body. The physicians
use these images to plan the treatment of injury and illnesses.
How Does it Work?
The MRI system creates a magnetic field, sends radio waves into your body, and then measures
the response with a computer. This makes a series of detailed images or pictures of the inside
of your body...without surgery, x-rays or pain.
Preparing for the Exam
- Arrive at the MRI Center 20 minutes prior to your appointment for registration.
- Unless specified by your physician, there is no special diet or preparation necessary.
- When you arrive for your appointment, you will be greeted by our receptionist and
introduced to our staff. Your medical history will be reviewed and the MRI process
explained at that time. You will be required to read and sign specific MRI forms prior to
your procedure. - You should advise your technologist if you have any of the following:
- Aneurysm Clips or Metal Plates
- Artificial Cardiac Valves
- Bone or Joint Replacements
- Possible Metal Fragments from Military or Work
- Pregnancy
- Previous Surgery (Brain, Eye, Ear)
- Patients with cardiac pacemakers or implanted defibrillators cannot be examined
with MRI
The Exam
You will be asked to wear a gown during your exam. A locker will be provided for your clothing,
jewelry and personal items. The MRI exam is safe and painless. A technologist will be talking
with you throughout your exam. Feel free to ask questions. The most important thing for you to do
is relax and lie still.
You shouldn't experience any unusual feelings or pain during your MRI scan. Some exams
require the use of an injected contrast-enhancing agent. This agent does not contain iodine and
does not require special preparation.
Prior to the exam, you will be fitted with a pair of earplugs. You will lie on a special padded table
that will move into the MRI unit for your scan. During your scan, you will hear a series of
hammering noises. These sounds are normal and are not harmful in any way.
The average exam lasts about 45 minutes, although the actual length of your exam will depend
on your physician's requests. You may have a friend or relative accompany you into the exam
room.
After the Test
You may resume regular activity, unless otherwise instructed. Results of your MRI exam are
interpreted within 24 hours by a board certified radiologist, experienced in Magnetic Resonance
Imaging. Normally, exam reports will be sent or faxed directly to your physician. Please inform
the receptionist if you have an appointment immediately following your exam and if your
physician has requested you bring the films to that appointment. You will be asked to wait
approximately 20 minutes while the scans are filmed and processed.
