What is an MRI Procedure?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. This painless and non-invasive procedure uses radio waves and a large magnet to visualize the internal organs, muscles, bones, nerves and connective tissues of your body. The MRI procedure obtains clear images of these bodily structures, allowing your physician to effectively diagnose and treat you. The procedure does not use radiation and does not have any harmful side effects.
Please Contact Us as Soon as Possible if You:
Have a cardiac pacemaker or prosthetic heart value
Have a surgical clip or metallic implants
Have any internal or external mechanical devices
Have ever been exposed to metal shavings or fragments
Have ever had an injury to your eyes involving metal
Have suffered a shrapnel wound
Have Cochlear ear implants or hearing aids
Have a prosthetic limb
Are pregnant, or there is a chance you may be pregnant
Weigh over 300 pounds
Suffer from claustrophobia
Wear any type of medication skin patch
(For contrast studies only)
Have a history of diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, breastfeeding, or over the age of 60 years old
Prior to Your MRI
Our pre-cert department will call you before we schedule your appointment with your insurance authorization and benefits.
It is important for our team to know about any prior surgery, pregnancy, or eye injury due to metal– we would like to do the necessary research prior to your appointment for your safety.
Our scheduling coordinator will give you specific instructions about preparing for your MRI.
The Day of Your MRI
Please arrive 15-20 minutes prior to scheduled appointment to fill out necessary paperwork.
Once your paperwork is complete, a coordinator will walk you through your MRI procedure in detail.
The technologist will go over additional paperwork with you. They will ask you to remove any jewelry, hairpins, and hearing aids before entering the examination room.
You will be asked to lie down on the scanning table, usually on your back. We will make you comfortable with the aid of pillows and blankets.
A MRI coil (camera) is placed around the part of the body to be scanned. This coil acts as an antenna to direct the magnetic energy to that area.
You will be asked to lie still for the duration of the scan. The scan takes approximately 20-45 minutes depending on the body part being examined.
You will hear the faint knocking sound while the system is scanning.
We will provide music for you during the duration of your scan. You may bring your own CD or select from a collection of CDs at our locations.
If you are nervous about your MRI please be assured our staff is compassionate to your needs. Please inform the technologist if you are nervous, and we can assist you with an eye mask or prism glasses.
If you are able to dress comfortably and metal free for your appointment, please do so. Many people feel more comfortable in their own clothes rather than hospital gowns. Please note we will have shorts or hospital gowns on site if you are unable to find any clothing that is metal free.