MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)

 

This fact sheet is designed to give you general information about your exam. Any individual

problems or questions should be directed to your physician.

 

MRI:

1. The purpose of MRI is a dynamic way to "see" inside the body. X-rays work best to see

bone, while MRI shows differences between healthy and unhealthy tissue. It enables doctors

to diagnose certain diseases plus assess soft tissue structures such as organs, muscle,

cartilage, ligaments, tendons, brain, spinal column, breast, abdomen, pelvic region, and joints

to make better decisions about your medical care.

2. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to build a clear picture of your body's internal

structures instead of using x-rays. Sensitive instruments and specially designed computers

are used to create images of the area being scanned.

 

Preparation for MRI:

1. No special preparation is needed before having an MRI.

2. Your doctor might specifically requests you not eat or drink anything before the exam if a

contrast media, "dye" could potentially be used.

3. Nothing metallic may be worn, so it's best to leave all jewelry at home and not wear

cosmetics as they may contain traces of metals.

4. Because of the strong magnetic field and radio frequencies, people who have a heart

pacemaker or any kind of metallic implant in their body shouldn't have an MRI unless their

physician knows about the metallic appliance and has OK'd the procedure. You should also

make sure the department doing your MRI is aware of any metal fragments you might have in

your body, including those from old injuries or wounds.

5. If you feel apprehensive in tight places or about the procedure, let your doctor know. It may

be possible to prescribe a mild sedative to help you relax.

6. Follow your local radiology department's instructions as each hospital's guidelines may vary

slightly.

 

The MRI Itself:

1. The procedure itself takes place in a special room that contains the MRI equipment. You'll lie

on a padded table that will glide you into the magnet, which looks like a tube. You may hear

loud humming and a few thumping sounds, but that's normal.

2. Your job will be to relax and lie still. Most exams take between 30 to 45 minutes but some

may even take up to an hour. You'll be told ahead of time approximately how long your

specific exam will take.

3. Your doctor might need to use a contrast media to get a clearer picture of the area he needs to see. If he does, you'll be injected with a contrast agent or "dye". The dye isn't painful, but you may feel a warm sensation as it enters your body. If you feel any discomfort during the exam, notify the technician. Make sure you notify the staff if you've had any problems from the dye in the past.

 

Interpretation of Results:

The radiologist will interpret the results of your MRI and will report the information to your physician, who in turn, will discuss the report with you.

 

* If we can be of further assistance to make your visit in our department more comfortable, please do not hesitate to ask any staff member.