Understanding MRI scans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a method of looking inside the body. Instead of x-rays, the MRI scanner uses magnetism and radio waves to produce remarkably clear pictures of your head, spine or other parts of your body. An MRI scanner consists of a strong magnet with a radio transmitter and receiver. These instruments gather the information out of your body. MRI produces soft-tissue images and is used to distinguish normal, healthy soft tissue from pathologic tissue.

Depending on what information your doctor needs, the MRI scan may require the use of a contrast-agent given intravenously to assist in visualization of certain structures in your body.

Important: Precautions
MRI is a non-invasive and safe test. As MRI works with a strong magnet and radio waves, you, or the person that accompanies you into the exam room, need to tell us if any of the following applies to you:

- Aneurysm clip(s)
- Cardiac pacemaker
- Implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
- Electronic implant or device
- Magnetically-activated implant or device
- Neurostimulation system
- Spinal cord stimulator
- Cochlear implant or implanted hearing aid
- Insulin or infusion pump
- Implanted drug infusion device
- Any type of prosthesis or implant
- Artificial or prosthetic limb
- Any metallic fragment or foreign body
- Any external or internal metallic object
- Hearing aid

Any metallic substance on your person can affect the quality of the diagnostic images. It can also cause discomfort or even injury to you when placed into the magnetic field.

It's very important for you to tell us if you are pregnant!

Preparing for an MRI
No special preparation is needed prior to the exam, unless your doctor has given you other instructions. You will be asked to complete a safety screening form and answer questions pertaining to your medical history. Please wear loose clothing without zippers or metallic parts. Remove all jewelry, watches, hairpins, glasses, wallets and other metallic objects.

What happens during an MRI Scan?
After you have removed all metal objects, the technologist will position you on a special table. Your head will be placed in a padded plastic cradle or on a pillow, and the table will then slide into the scanner. You will be able to communicate with the technologist during the scan.

For clear pictures, you will be asked to hold very still and relax. In some cases, you will be asked to hold your breath for up to 30 seconds. Any movement, especially of your head or back (even moving your jaw to talk) during the scan will seriously blur the pictures. While the machine is taking your pictures, you will hear rapidly repeating, loud thumping noises coming from the walls of the scanner; therefore, earplugs will be provided. During this time, you should breathe quietly and normally but, otherwise, refrain from any movement, coughing or wiggling. When the thumping noise stops, you must refrain from changing your position or moving about. This whole procedure will usually be repeated several times, and the entire exam ordinarily takes between 15 and 30 minutes to complete.