What
should I do to prepare for the exam?
Follow any instructions about eating or taking your usual medications.
Due to the strength of the magnetic field, you must remove all metallic objects before you
are scanned. Wear comfortable clothing without metal fasteners. Do not wear jewelry, eye
makeup or hair clips.
You will be required to provide a health history when you arrive for your exam including
information about any metal implants you may have. Patients with pacemakers and certain
metal implants cannot be scanned. Tooth fillings are not affected by the magnetic field,
but they may distort images of the facial area or brain, so the technologist should be
aware of them.
How much time should I allow?
The length of your exam depends on the type of study being done. A typical exam lasts
between 30 and 60 minutes.
What can I expect?
The technologist will help position you on the scanning table. Generally, you will lie on
your back. A surface coil may be attached to the part of the body to be scanned. Through
the use of an intercom and a mirror the technologist is able to see and hear you
throughout the exam. If you become uncomfortable at any point, the technologist will
be right there to assist you.
If a contrast agent is needed, you’ll be given an injection. A contrast agent
improves the quality of certain images. Contrast agents used in MRI can produce allergic
reactions, however reactions are rare. Let the technologist know if you have any allergies
or feel sick or experience any discomfort.
As the scan begins, the scanning table will slide into the scanner. During your MRI exam
you’ll probably hear a knocking or buzzing sound that occurs as the images are being
taken. You’ll be provided with ear plugs to wear during the scan or an audio headset
may be available to minimize the noise. You will be asked not to move during the actual
imaging process, but between sequences some movement is allowed.
After the scan is complete you may resume your normal activity and eating habits. |
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The only High FIeld
Open MRI Unit
in the area
2 additional GE
High Field MRI units
including the
Short Bore MRI
Immediate
Scheduling with
3 MRI Units
ACR Accreditation
Sample MRI Image
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