What is a MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one form of imaging modality used by physicians to obtain clinically useful diagnostic information. Incorporating advanced technology, MRI produces images of anatomy without the use of radiation required with other imaging modalities, such as x-ray and CT scanning.

MRI combines the physical properties of strong magnetic fields with radio waves to produce computer-generated soft tissue images within any plane of the body. This popular imaging technique can be used as a primary diagnostic tool to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician. In some situations, this procedure can reduce the need for further diagnostic procedures or invasive procedures, such as exploratory surgery, that may have associated complications.

MRI is a noninvasive procedure with no known side effects. The procedure is painless; in fact, you won’t see or feel anything. A knocking sound will be heard from the machine, which is simply the imaging process in operation.

The benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are many, and new applications are being continually developed through ongoing research. The procedure is used for all parts of the body and is effective in the clinical evaluation of the following conditions:

• Brain disorders
• Traumatic injuries
• Eye abnormalities
• Spine diseases
• Tumor detection
• Knee and shoulder injuries
• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Facial/Neck abnormalities
• Infection

A typical procedure averages 30 minutes or longer, depending on the type of information required by your physician. You can help to make your images as clean as possible by relaxing and remaining still during the exam. Some patients even fall asleep during the MRI exam.

During your MRI examination, a technologist will be with you and will be able to see you at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the MR imager so that if you need anything, the technologist will be right there. In certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance the study.

What Do I Have To Do To Prepare For The MRI?
No special preparation is required prior to the MRI exam. You may eat normally and go about your daily routine. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed. Prior to entering the scan room for your exam, you will be asked to leave those items that are not compatible with a magnetic field in a safe place outside the scan room. Some of these items are listed below:

• Coins
• Jewelry
• Watches
• Glasses
• Credit cards
• Hearing aids
• Keys
• Hair pins
• Other metal objects

You may also be asked to remove make-up and dentures and to wear a hospital gown to avoid magnetic interference from belt buckles and zippers.

Once you are situated on the table, make sure you are comfortable so that it is easy to remain still for the duration of the examination. Breathe normally. Once the examination has begun, you will hear a knocking sound that represents changes in the magnetic field. This is a normal part of the imaging process. At the conclusion of the exam, the technologist will assist you out of the scan room.

As mentioned previously, you will be asked to leave items that are incompatible with the magnetic field outside of the scan room. Other items that may be incompatible are implants and similar items. Check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had any brain, ear, or eye surgeries or have any of the following:

• Pacemaker
• Neurostimulator (TENS unit)
• Metal implants
• Intrauterine device (IUD), etc.
• Aneurysm clips
• Surgical staples
• Implanted drug infusion device
• Foreign metal objects in the eye
• Shrapnel or bullet wounds
• Permanent eyeliner

*If you are pregnant, please notify your physician.