Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a method of obtaining 
detailed pictures of internal body structures without the use of radiation or radioactive substances of any kind. This is accomplished by placing the patient in a magnetic field while radio waves are turned on and off. This causes the body to emit its own weak radio signals, which vary according to tissue characteristics. These signals are then picked up by a sensitive antenna and fed to a computer, which produces detailed images of the body for interpretation, by board-certified radiologists.
What to Expect
The patient-friendly features of our Open MRI were designed for your comfort and peace of mind. The machine is large enough to accommodate a parent with a child, and is especially appropriate for large-sized patients.
Our Technologist will simply ask you lie down on a cushioned table, which will move into the magnet. After you have been comfortably positioned for the scans, the technologist will carefully monitor the operation of the exam. You will be able to communicate with the technologist at all times during the exam. For some patients, a small injection of a contrast agent may be required to enhance image clarity.
During the examination you will not feel anything unusual. You will, however, hear a repeated drum-like knocking sound as the scans are recorded. Hearing protection will be provided to those patients who do not wish to listen to music. You can help to produce high quality images by lying still during the examination which breathing normally.
The average Open MRI exam typically takes 5 to 15 minutes, the complete examination about 30 to 49 minutes, during which time several dozen images will be produced. After the exam, you may return to work or home and resume normal activities. Our radiologists will promptly review and interpret your images and deliver a report to your physician.
Preparations and Precautions
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal snaps or zippers. Be sure to bring your referral from your doctor or we may not be able to perform your test. Also, arrive 1/2 hour early to register. Usually, there are no dietary restrictions before an MRI exam. However, if you are having an MRI of the abdomen performed, do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure. We do ask you to take the following precautions for your own personal safety and to ensure that we get the best possible images.
Please do not wear hairspray, eyeglasses, makeup, jewelry, a hearing aid or any removable dental work. You can remove any of the above mentioned items and leave them in your dressing room prior to the exam.
Finally, and most important, inform your doctor and technologist if you have:
- a pacemaker,
- a metal plate, pin or other metallic implant,
- cochlear implants/metallic ear implant,
- aneurysm clips,
- an artificial heart valve,
- an intrauterine device (IUD), or
- if you are pregnant.
Also, it is important to know if you have been exposed to metallic fragments:
- through a war wound,
- as a metal worker,
- through construction work or house painting/cleaning, etc.
For more information on this topic, please visit www.radiologyinfo.org
