Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, scan uses a powerful magnet and a computer to take pictures of images of organs, the brain, joints and other soft tissues inside your body. This test allows your doctor to see your body in narrow slices, each about one quarter of an inch thick. The pictures can be taken from the side, from the front or form the bottom as cross-sections. MRI is safe and effective and does not use ionizing radiation.
How to prepare for your MRI 
Before your MRI
No special preparation is needed for the exam. You may eat and drink normally and take any prescribed medication, unless your physician instructs you differently. You may want to avoid caffeinated beverages so you are able to lie still for a long period of time. Also, you will be asked to remove any metallic objects or jewelry such as a watch, eyeglasses, credit cards, dentures or hearing aids. These objects can affect the quality of the images. You will be provided with a secure place to put these items.
Please inform the technologist if you have:
- Cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve
- Metal plate, pin or other metallic implant
- Intrauterine device, such as a Copper-7 IUD
- Insulin pump or other infusion pump
- Aneurysm clip
- Previous gun shot wound
- Ever been a metal worker or had metal in your eye
- Permanent (tattoo) eye-liner
- Also, be sure to tell us if you are pregnant.
During your MRI
MRI is an easy, comfortable and painless procedure that is completed within 30 to 60 minutes. During the exam, you will be asked to lie on a cushioned table, and a device called a “coil” will be placed over or under you on the area being examined. When you are comfortably situated on the table, you will move into the magnet. During the exam, you will be asked to lie as still as possible while the scanner take pictures of your body. When the scanner is taking pictures, you will hear several thumping noises. Throughout the exam, the technologist will be in constant communications with you.
After your MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a noninvasive procedure and there are no known side effects or after effects. If a contrast agent was administered, you may experience nausea, headache or dizziness following your exam. It’s important to increase your water consumption in the days following the exam. If the symptoms persist, contact your physician.
After your MRI scans have been reviewed by our radiologist, your personal physician will receive a report of the findings. You physician will then advise you of the results and discuss what further procedures, if any, are needed.
Click here for more information on MRI scans.
