What is an MRI?

• Magnetic Resonance Scanning / Imaging (MRI) is a method of looking inside the body without the use of surgery, or x-rays. The MRI scanner uses magnetism and radio waves to produce remarkably clear pictures of the human anatomy. When a patient is referred by his or her doctor for an MRI, they are choosing the most advanced method of diagnostic imaging available.

What happens during my MRI?

You will be positioned on a padded exam table and slowly rolled into the magnet opening. The body part that is being examined will be in the center of the scanner. You will hear a series of tapping sounds that will last from 2-10 minutes for each sequence of pictures. The exam lasts a total of 30 to 60 minutes.

Please be sure allow two hours for the exam, and arrive 15-20 minutes before the exam.

Are there any special precautions?

Yes, there may be. Please notify the technician if you have had brain, ear or eye surgery; also any of the following:

• Aneurysm clips
• Imbedded metal objects
• Pacemaker
• Neuro-simulator
• Metal clips or implants
• Surgical staples
• Foreign metal objects in the eye
• Shrapnel or gunshot wound
• Implanted drug infusion device

If you are pregnant, please notify your physician

What do I need to schedule an exam?

• Patient name, phone number and date of birth
• Exam type
• Diagnosis
• MD Ordering
• A referral letter may be required by your insurance carrier
• Your insurance carrier may also require a precertification
• Worker's compensation authorization if this is a work comp case
• Attorney information if a legal claim has been filed

How should I prepare on the day of the exam?

• There are no special preparations. There is no special diet, medication or fasting required.
• Continue to take any medications, including pain medications, that have been prescribed by your doctor.
• If you are anxious about the test, cut back on your caffeine consumption prior to the exam.
• Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes without metal snaps or zippers. Gowns will be available if needed.
• To help you relax during the exam, you can bring your favorite CD or listen to the radio station of your choice.
• There are no side effects to MRI. You can drive yourself home.
• Payment may be required at the time of the test, be sure to ask in advance.

How long will the MRI scan take?

Most scans are complete in about twenty minutes. Although, it can take longer depending on the anatomy being scanned

What will happen when I get scanned ?

A certified technician will help you get into place on the MRI bed once you are ready to begin the scan. They will provide pillows and blankets to help make the experience as comfortable as possible. It may be necessary to place a special ring over the area that is being scanned. This will not cause any pain and helps the scanner recognize which area is being scanned. Once you are positioned, all you have to do is relax and lie very still.

You will be able to talk to the technician who will be outside the room while the scan is performed. The technician will be able to hear and see you at all times. You may even be able to wear headphones, for your listening enjoyment, during the scan.

How will I receive my results?

After the scan is complete, a certified radiologist will review the films and dictate a detailed report. This report will be sent to your physician, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Your doctor will then discuss the results of your MRI and develop a course of action that meets your needs. There are no side effects following an MRI scan. You will be able to resume all of your regular activities..

What types of MRI scanners exist?

STANDARD
This machine looks like a long cylindrical tube. The patient lies on a moveable bed and their whole body slides inside the tube. This standard machine may feel confining but produces high quality images.

SHORT BORE
This machine is similar to the standard machine, but is half its length and open at both ends. The patient again lies on a moveable bed. The technician then moves the bed so the area being scanned is centered into the machine. If a knee is being scanned, the patient's upper body will be outside of the machine. If the head is being scanned, the patient's lower body will be outside of the machine. This machine produces high quality images, and is less confining than the standard machine.

OPEN
This machine looks like a bagel that has been sliced in half with a bed positioned between each half of the bagel. Open MRI's are a good option for larger patients or patients with extreme claustrophobia. However this machine does not produce the same quality images as does the short bore or traditional machine.