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What is a Magnetic Resonance Imaging examination?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe technique that allows doctors to see inside the human body in remarkable detail without using x-rays. Instead, MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves and a sophisticated computer system. This scan will provide your doctor with important information on certain types of body tissue (internal organs, joints, brain and spine) differently than an x-ray or a computed tomography (CT) scan.
How do I prepare for my MRI scan?
You will be asked to fill out a safety questionnaire the day of your examination. This questionnaire needs to be filled out to the best of your knowledge to ensure your safety when entering the magnet. The technologist will review the questionnaire prior to your procedure.
You will be asked to remove all metallic items from your person, such as watches, jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses, and hearing aids. Also, do not take any credit, bank or parking cards with you into the scan as the scanner will erase the information recorded on the metallic strip. An area will be provided for safekeeping of valuables.
If you are having a MRI of your head, neck or orbits, you may be asked to remove eye make-up if it contains a metal ingredient.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS:
- You should not have an MRI scan if you are or suspect you may be pregnant.
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It is very important to inform the doctor, nurse or technologist prior to the scan if you have any metal implants. Your doctor will decide if you can be safely scanned.
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Please inform the technologist if you are breastfeeding.
What can I expect during the MRI scan?
The scan is performed by a radiologist, (a doctor specializing in medical diagnosis by x-ray and scans) and a radiologic technologist. Once in the scan room, you will be asked to lie on a padded table.
During the scan, it is important to hold very still, as movement will cause blurring of the pictures. Throughout the entire examination, you will be able to speak to the technologist via an intercom.
Technologists will talk with you frequently during your scan, explaining the procedure each step of the way. When the scanner is operating, you will hear a loud thumping noise and may feel a slight vibration. This is normal.
How long will the MRI scan take?
Each MRI scan is different. However, most scans take approximately 60 minutes.
How do I find out the results of my MRI scan?
Your MRI scan will be reviewed by a MDI radiologist. The radiologist will send a report to your physician, who will give you the results of the scan.
What will happen following my MRI scan?
Immediately following the scan, you may resume normal activities, diet and medication.
IMPORTANT:
- You should not have an MRI scan if you are or suspect you may be pregnant.
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It is very important to inform the doctor or the technologist prior to the scan if you have any of the following metal implants or objects. Your doctor will decide if you can safely be scanned.
Aneurysm clips, artifical heart valve, bullets, cardiac pacemaker, eye orbital prosthesis, hip or knee prosthesis, insulin pump implant, intercrancial bypass graft clips, middle or inner ear prosthesis, shrapnel, sternal wire sutures, tantalum mesh, transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation device.
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Additionally, if you have ever been a metal worker, it is important that you inform the doctor of this, as you may be required to have your eyes x-rayed before having the scan.
This information will be asked on the day of the scan, and you will be asked to sign a form stating you are aware of the need to provide this information prior to the scan for your own safety.
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